NAHCC Board of Directors 2023-24
Claudia Zuazua
Claudia Zuazua
Williamson Inc.
Board Chair
Born and raised in Mexico, City, Claudia has lived in 4 different countries due to her husband’s job. She moved to Nashville in 2013 and became an American Citizen in 2018.
Claudia has a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s degree in Human Resources. She is also a Healthcare and Education Interpreter. She has been working at Williamson, Inc. as a Community Development Manager for 8 years.
Her community involvement includes: Active Volunteer at Conexion Americas, CASA Volunteer, Junior Achievement Volunteer
Involved in the Minority Business Academy of Williamson, Inc., Leadership Brentwood Class 2023, Claudia is a Former WCS Spanish Teacher, Former WCS Interpreter. She has an extended background that goes from Corporate, to education as a Spanish teacher for elementary children throughout Williamson County Schools, to interpretation English/Spanish between Hispanic families and Williamson County School staff (WCS). In addition, she has collaborated with small businesses doing interpretation/translations in the last 5 years.
Today, Claudia serves both the NAHCC and Williamson Inc. organizations, where she has been key, in connecting the Nashville Hispanic community with Williamson County Businesses.
Williamson Inc.
Board Chair
Born and raised in Mexico, City, Claudia has lived in 4 different countries due to her husband’s job. She moved to Nashville in 2013 and became an American Citizen in 2018.
Claudia has a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s degree in Human Resources. She is also a Healthcare and Education Interpreter. She has been working at Williamson, Inc. as a Community Development Manager for 8 years.
Her community involvement includes: Active Volunteer at Conexion Americas, CASA Volunteer, Junior Achievement Volunteer
Involved in the Minority Business Academy of Williamson, Inc., Leadership Brentwood Class 2023, Claudia is a Former WCS Spanish Teacher, Former WCS Interpreter. She has an extended background that goes from Corporate, to education as a Spanish teacher for elementary children throughout Williamson County Schools, to interpretation English/Spanish between Hispanic families and Williamson County School staff (WCS). In addition, she has collaborated with small businesses doing interpretation/translations in the last 5 years.
Today, Claudia serves both the NAHCC and Williamson Inc. organizations, where she has been key, in connecting the Nashville Hispanic community with Williamson County Businesses.
Juan Lombera
Juan Lombera
MC Granite Nashville LLC
1st Vice-Chair
MC Granite Countertops directed by its company founder Luciano Lombera, and brothers Juan Lombera and Cesar Lombera, has six locations in three different states; Tennessee, Georgia and North Carolina.
MC Granite Countertops Nashville Warehouse, offers over 20 years of experience providing customers with excellence in sales, fabrication and installation of Granite and Marble. From small to large projects, MC Granite Nashville can get it done.
MC Granite Nashville LLC, lead by Juan Lombera, opened its doors to the public in Nashville Tennessee on March 19, 2013. In October 15, 2019 MC Granite LLC received the Entrepreneur of The Year Award during the NAHCC 15th Annual Business and Community Excellence Awards in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
MC Granite Nashville LLC
1st Vice-Chair
MC Granite Countertops directed by its company founder Luciano Lombera, and brothers Juan Lombera and Cesar Lombera, has six locations in three different states; Tennessee, Georgia and North Carolina.
MC Granite Countertops Nashville Warehouse, offers over 20 years of experience providing customers with excellence in sales, fabrication and installation of Granite and Marble. From small to large projects, MC Granite Nashville can get it done.
MC Granite Nashville LLC, lead by Juan Lombera, opened its doors to the public in Nashville Tennessee on March 19, 2013. In October 15, 2019 MC Granite LLC received the Entrepreneur of The Year Award during the NAHCC 15th Annual Business and Community Excellence Awards in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Manuel Cuevas
Manuel Cuevas
Manuel American Designs
2nd Vice-Chair
Manuel is known as the Tailor to the Stars, having dressed anybody and everybody from Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, four US Presidents, and Bob Dylan.
Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, Manuel relocated to Nashville from California in the late 1980's and has become a fixture in both the fashion and Hispanic communities ever since.
He’s the man behind the iconic looks for some of the greatest stars in music and movies over the past 60 years. Manuel Cuevas was the first to put James Dean in jeans, he designed what Clint Eastwood wore in those spaghetti westerns, he dressed Marlon Brando, and a host of other stars in a long list of TV shows and movies before moving on to music.
Manuel put Johnny Cash in black, Elvis in a jumpsuit, designed the Sgt. Pepper Jackets for the Beatles, put Sonny and Cher in bell-bottoms, created the cowboy hat and jeans look for Dwight Yoakam, and the list goes on and on. Still going strong in his mid-80’s, Manuel has never stopped, and most recently created designs for Lady Gaga, Keisha, Chris Stapleton, Kid Rock, The Killers, and a host of other artists he won’t mention to protect their privacy.
In 2018 he received the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) National Heritage Fellowship medallion. It is the country's highest honor in folk and traditional arts. In 2019 a documentary featuring a portion of his recent professional and personal life premiered at the 50th Nashville Film Festival and last month on November 22 at Zanate Festival de cine documental mexicano in the city of Colima, Mexico.
Manuel American Designs
2nd Vice-Chair
Manuel is known as the Tailor to the Stars, having dressed anybody and everybody from Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, four US Presidents, and Bob Dylan.
Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, Manuel relocated to Nashville from California in the late 1980's and has become a fixture in both the fashion and Hispanic communities ever since.
He’s the man behind the iconic looks for some of the greatest stars in music and movies over the past 60 years. Manuel Cuevas was the first to put James Dean in jeans, he designed what Clint Eastwood wore in those spaghetti westerns, he dressed Marlon Brando, and a host of other stars in a long list of TV shows and movies before moving on to music.
Manuel put Johnny Cash in black, Elvis in a jumpsuit, designed the Sgt. Pepper Jackets for the Beatles, put Sonny and Cher in bell-bottoms, created the cowboy hat and jeans look for Dwight Yoakam, and the list goes on and on. Still going strong in his mid-80’s, Manuel has never stopped, and most recently created designs for Lady Gaga, Keisha, Chris Stapleton, Kid Rock, The Killers, and a host of other artists he won’t mention to protect their privacy.
In 2018 he received the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) National Heritage Fellowship medallion. It is the country's highest honor in folk and traditional arts. In 2019 a documentary featuring a portion of his recent professional and personal life premiered at the 50th Nashville Film Festival and last month on November 22 at Zanate Festival de cine documental mexicano in the city of Colima, Mexico.
Joyce Searcy
Joyce Searcy
Belmont University
Treasurer/Secretary
A graduate of both Fisk and Vanderbilt Universities, Joyce is the recipient of the prestigious Athena Award for 2008. In Nashville, the Athena Award is considered the highest award recognizing the achievements of business women. During the summer of 2008, Joyce attended Harvard Business School’s “Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management” on a full scholarship. Joyce is the current secretary of the Board of Trustees for Leadership Nashville, immediate past president of the New Level Community Development Corporation, and co-chaired the 2008-09 Nashville Chamber Education Report Card committee. Joyce is currently serving as vice president of Full Circle and is a member of the Metro Nashville Library Board of Directors.
Joyce has been the Vice President for Mid-States for the YWCA of the USA and recently completed a term on the National Board for Girl Scouts of the USA. She has received numerous other community recognitions from the Women’s Fund of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, ACLU, Nashville Conference of Christian and Jews, Alpha Kappa Alpha Regional “Member of the Year”, Tennessee State University’s Women of Legend and Merit, Vanderbilt University’s Scholar “Prophetarium” (Community Leader of the Year), and Nashville Scene has named her a “Nashville Saint”. Joyce received our NAHCC Amiga of the Year Award in 2014.
Belmont University
Treasurer/Secretary
A graduate of both Fisk and Vanderbilt Universities, Joyce is the recipient of the prestigious Athena Award for 2008. In Nashville, the Athena Award is considered the highest award recognizing the achievements of business women. During the summer of 2008, Joyce attended Harvard Business School’s “Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management” on a full scholarship. Joyce is the current secretary of the Board of Trustees for Leadership Nashville, immediate past president of the New Level Community Development Corporation, and co-chaired the 2008-09 Nashville Chamber Education Report Card committee. Joyce is currently serving as vice president of Full Circle and is a member of the Metro Nashville Library Board of Directors.
Joyce has been the Vice President for Mid-States for the YWCA of the USA and recently completed a term on the National Board for Girl Scouts of the USA. She has received numerous other community recognitions from the Women’s Fund of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, ACLU, Nashville Conference of Christian and Jews, Alpha Kappa Alpha Regional “Member of the Year”, Tennessee State University’s Women of Legend and Merit, Vanderbilt University’s Scholar “Prophetarium” (Community Leader of the Year), and Nashville Scene has named her a “Nashville Saint”. Joyce received our NAHCC Amiga of the Year Award in 2014.
Anel Flores
Anel Flores, Owner
Stereonashville LLC, Spanish Language Digital Media Platform
Anel Flores was born in Mexico City, Mexico. In 2019, she launched Stereonashville, a bilingual digital platform that uses channels like Facebook and YouTube to share everyday information with the Hispanic community, helping bridge the language barrier often preventing Hispanics from staying informed. Stereonashville has succeeded at connecting English and Spanish communities, supporting a variety of local causes including the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), helping promote campaigns like Operation Incognito, Real ID and the new Hands Free Law.
Anel holds a degree in Communications and Public Relations, with an emphasis in Digital Marketing, from Universidad Latinoamericana, in México City. Her professional work includes serving as the Chief Editor of International News for TV Azteca, a major television network and multimedia conglomerate owned by Grupo Salinas. It is the second-largest mass media company in Mexico after Televisa.
This year (2019), Anel Flores and Stereo Nashville received the THSO Director's Award; and the NAHCC "Spirit in Entrepreneurship Award" during the organization's 15th Annual Business & Community Excellence Ceremony in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month last October 15.
Stereonashville LLC, Spanish Language Digital Media Platform
Anel Flores was born in Mexico City, Mexico. In 2019, she launched Stereonashville, a bilingual digital platform that uses channels like Facebook and YouTube to share everyday information with the Hispanic community, helping bridge the language barrier often preventing Hispanics from staying informed. Stereonashville has succeeded at connecting English and Spanish communities, supporting a variety of local causes including the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), helping promote campaigns like Operation Incognito, Real ID and the new Hands Free Law.
Anel holds a degree in Communications and Public Relations, with an emphasis in Digital Marketing, from Universidad Latinoamericana, in México City. Her professional work includes serving as the Chief Editor of International News for TV Azteca, a major television network and multimedia conglomerate owned by Grupo Salinas. It is the second-largest mass media company in Mexico after Televisa.
This year (2019), Anel Flores and Stereo Nashville received the THSO Director's Award; and the NAHCC "Spirit in Entrepreneurship Award" during the organization's 15th Annual Business & Community Excellence Ceremony in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month last October 15.
Monchiere' Holmes Jones
Monchiere' Holmes Jones, Owner/Founder
MOJO Marketing + PR
Monchiere' is a trusted source across the U.S. known for launching and amplifying brands. As an entrepreneurial advisor and TedX speaker Monchiere’ regularly presents on Marketing//PR industry relevant topics and her journey as a creative Black woman in the agency world. The founder and CEO of MOJO Marketing + PR, she has championed the award-winning agency's multi-industry small business, non-profit and corporate clientele for nearly a decade. Throughout her 19-year career as a marketer and brand curator, local and global brands have put full confidence in MOJO’s ability to deliver integrated market takeover media exposure, authentic engagements and memorable activations.
● Notable industries include: multicultural brands, tourism, education, social justice, food
and beverage, health care and technology.
● Notable brand campaigns include: United States Postal Service, Meharry Medical College, XPRIZE, General Motors, Frist Art Museum, Soul of New Orleans, Essence Festival, MetroPCS, HCA Healthcare, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, New Orleans Multicultural Tourism Network, Tennessee State Fair, The Equity Alliance and Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical.
Monchiere’ and MOJO have been recognized for their intuitive creativity, impeccable legacy, and fusion of agency, community leadership, and innovation in business. Among the high honors and praise are the following:
● Nashville Business Journal 2021 Power 100 List: Disruptor
● Best In Business 2020
● Event Marketer Magazine 2020 It List Top 100 Agency
● GDUSA (Graphic Design USA) Award 2020
● 2018 Nashville Shop Small: The Telly Awards Bronze Winner
Monchiere’ Holmes-Jones enthusiastically lives by the mantra of #LovingMyMinutes and is on a mission to amplify culture in every brand that amplifies their community for all.
MOJO Marketing + PR
Monchiere' is a trusted source across the U.S. known for launching and amplifying brands. As an entrepreneurial advisor and TedX speaker Monchiere’ regularly presents on Marketing//PR industry relevant topics and her journey as a creative Black woman in the agency world. The founder and CEO of MOJO Marketing + PR, she has championed the award-winning agency's multi-industry small business, non-profit and corporate clientele for nearly a decade. Throughout her 19-year career as a marketer and brand curator, local and global brands have put full confidence in MOJO’s ability to deliver integrated market takeover media exposure, authentic engagements and memorable activations.
● Notable industries include: multicultural brands, tourism, education, social justice, food
and beverage, health care and technology.
● Notable brand campaigns include: United States Postal Service, Meharry Medical College, XPRIZE, General Motors, Frist Art Museum, Soul of New Orleans, Essence Festival, MetroPCS, HCA Healthcare, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, New Orleans Multicultural Tourism Network, Tennessee State Fair, The Equity Alliance and Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical.
Monchiere’ and MOJO have been recognized for their intuitive creativity, impeccable legacy, and fusion of agency, community leadership, and innovation in business. Among the high honors and praise are the following:
● Nashville Business Journal 2021 Power 100 List: Disruptor
● Best In Business 2020
● Event Marketer Magazine 2020 It List Top 100 Agency
● GDUSA (Graphic Design USA) Award 2020
● 2018 Nashville Shop Small: The Telly Awards Bronze Winner
Monchiere’ Holmes-Jones enthusiastically lives by the mantra of #LovingMyMinutes and is on a mission to amplify culture in every brand that amplifies their community for all.
Hugo Reyes, Owner, Co-Owner, Founder
Pupuseria Salvadoreña,
Hugo is co-founder of Pupuseria Salvadoreña Inc., representing his country of origin and giving back to our Nashville community.
In September 2008 he opened, together with his wife and daughter, the first restaurant, and now the family has successfully opened the third location, serving traditional Salvadorean food in Murfresboro.
In 2011, Pupuseria Salvadoreña #1 received the Best of Nashville Critic’s Pick recognition by the Nashville Scene and the Emergent Entrepreneur of the Year Award by the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce during the organization's Hispanic Heritage Month Excellence in Business & Community Awards.
Hugo is married for 24 years to Mirian Recinos and is the proud father of Crisia Yasmin, Hugo Zuriel y Annie Yamileth. Yasmin, who came to the U.S at the age of seven, has now completed college with a Biology degree and aspires to continue her education to become a Pediatrician.
Pupuseria Salvadoreña,
Hugo is co-founder of Pupuseria Salvadoreña Inc., representing his country of origin and giving back to our Nashville community.
In September 2008 he opened, together with his wife and daughter, the first restaurant, and now the family has successfully opened the third location, serving traditional Salvadorean food in Murfresboro.
In 2011, Pupuseria Salvadoreña #1 received the Best of Nashville Critic’s Pick recognition by the Nashville Scene and the Emergent Entrepreneur of the Year Award by the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce during the organization's Hispanic Heritage Month Excellence in Business & Community Awards.
Hugo is married for 24 years to Mirian Recinos and is the proud father of Crisia Yasmin, Hugo Zuriel y Annie Yamileth. Yasmin, who came to the U.S at the age of seven, has now completed college with a Biology degree and aspires to continue her education to become a Pediatrician.
Marisa Munoz
Marisa Munoz, Founder & CEO
M Casting Worldwide
Marisa Munoz is a casting director and manager based in Nashville, Tennessee. She is the owner of M Casting Worldwide, founded in 1998, whose specialty is commercials, print campaigns, music videos, and film. Marisa grew up in Central California and went to college at Cal Poly University, where she studied graphic design and advertising, both of which she always loved. Before entering the casting industry, Marisa was a dancer and also did musical theater.
Since inception in 1998, to now having expanded worldwide, her company, M Casting has cast over 2000 diverse and exciting projects ranging from National, Regional and Foreign Commercials to Fashion, Editorial and Commercial Print Campaigns. Along with an extensive list of Music Videos as well as Films. In addition to providing established actors and talent to the industry, M Casting also specializes in the discovery of unique and new faces along with fresh undiscovered talent and have been recognized globally for their incredible eye. Diversity and equality are of the utmost importance to M Casting and we are, Marisa says, extremely committed to creating equal opportunities for all talent regardless of their gender, race, sexuality, social background or disability.
Marisa Munoz and M Casting Worldwide, received the NAHCC "Ganas" in Entrepreneurship Award in 2021.
M Casting Worldwide
Marisa Munoz is a casting director and manager based in Nashville, Tennessee. She is the owner of M Casting Worldwide, founded in 1998, whose specialty is commercials, print campaigns, music videos, and film. Marisa grew up in Central California and went to college at Cal Poly University, where she studied graphic design and advertising, both of which she always loved. Before entering the casting industry, Marisa was a dancer and also did musical theater.
Since inception in 1998, to now having expanded worldwide, her company, M Casting has cast over 2000 diverse and exciting projects ranging from National, Regional and Foreign Commercials to Fashion, Editorial and Commercial Print Campaigns. Along with an extensive list of Music Videos as well as Films. In addition to providing established actors and talent to the industry, M Casting also specializes in the discovery of unique and new faces along with fresh undiscovered talent and have been recognized globally for their incredible eye. Diversity and equality are of the utmost importance to M Casting and we are, Marisa says, extremely committed to creating equal opportunities for all talent regardless of their gender, race, sexuality, social background or disability.
Marisa Munoz and M Casting Worldwide, received the NAHCC "Ganas" in Entrepreneurship Award in 2021.
Perla Salas
Perla Salas, Founder/Owner
Perlita’s Fashion and Perla Salas PLLC
Perla Salas was born in Coatzacoalcos Veracruz Mexico from where she moved to Nashville, Tennessee in 1996. Perla graduated from Antioch High school in 2008 and attended Volunteer State Community College for Business Administration and Management. On March 12, 2009, she obtained her license to operate Perlita’s Fashion as a retailer/wholesaler. In 2010 she opened her first Perlita’s fashion location now celebrating its 11th year anniversary. Perla has managed a music family business since an early age: Ingrid Salas Black Shadow, serving as a booking agent, drummer and BMI songwriter. She attended Madison Beauty School for cosmetology, graduating in 2016 to open her second business, Perla Salas Beauty Salon at the same time graduated from Franklin Hair Academy as a Junior Instructor soon to become a state licensed Master Educator of Cosmetology. Perla salas known as Perlita Salas and a Nashville drummer, songwriter, fashionista and hairstylist, loves to learn and help the community.
Perlita’s Fashion and Perla Salas PLLC
Perla Salas was born in Coatzacoalcos Veracruz Mexico from where she moved to Nashville, Tennessee in 1996. Perla graduated from Antioch High school in 2008 and attended Volunteer State Community College for Business Administration and Management. On March 12, 2009, she obtained her license to operate Perlita’s Fashion as a retailer/wholesaler. In 2010 she opened her first Perlita’s fashion location now celebrating its 11th year anniversary. Perla has managed a music family business since an early age: Ingrid Salas Black Shadow, serving as a booking agent, drummer and BMI songwriter. She attended Madison Beauty School for cosmetology, graduating in 2016 to open her second business, Perla Salas Beauty Salon at the same time graduated from Franklin Hair Academy as a Junior Instructor soon to become a state licensed Master Educator of Cosmetology. Perla salas known as Perlita Salas and a Nashville drummer, songwriter, fashionista and hairstylist, loves to learn and help the community.
Marie Sueing
Marie Sueing, Vice President of Multicultural Community Relations
Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp.
In this role, Marie's efforts include increasing convention and tourism sales for the city and enhancing community relations and perception by promoting Nashville’s diverse offerings through product development and events. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Marie moved south to attend Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. Since then, she has served in a variety of hospitality roles over the last thirty years in Atlanta, Memphis and Nashville. Prior to joining the NCVC in 2006, she gained invaluable industry experience in hotel sales and operations with Marriott International, Gaylord Opryland, and Starwood Hotels Worldwide, respectively. In recent years, Nashville’s hospitality community has grown to a $7 billion dollar industry. Diversity in all areas is critical to the city’s continued success as a welcoming destination for all. Marie’s recent features in several news articles and news media programs speak to the importance of the NCVC’s role in promotion of Nashville’s rich history, culture and entertainment offerings locally, nationally and internationally.
A member of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and Religious Conference Manager Assn, Marie also serves on the boards of the National Museum of African American Music (serving on several committees), the Nashville Children’s Theatre, and From the Heart International Education Foundation. Her community engagement, support and committee work on behalf of the NCVC is extensive, including (but not limited to) organizations and events such as the NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet (NAACP Life Member), Urban League of Middle TN Equal Opportunity Day Luncheon, Nashville Jazz Workshop Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Fisk Jubilee Singers Annual Spring Sing, St. Jude Spirit of the Dream, and festivals and events representing a variety of cultures that take place around the city throughout the year. She serves on TSU’s John Merritt Classic, Women of Legend and Merit Gala and Homecoming committees, in addition to assisting and promoting other HBCUs in various efforts. Her focus in these areas allow her to continue to help develop and promote new initiatives that further highlight Nashville’s diversity to visitors and locals alike.
Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp.
In this role, Marie's efforts include increasing convention and tourism sales for the city and enhancing community relations and perception by promoting Nashville’s diverse offerings through product development and events. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Marie moved south to attend Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. Since then, she has served in a variety of hospitality roles over the last thirty years in Atlanta, Memphis and Nashville. Prior to joining the NCVC in 2006, she gained invaluable industry experience in hotel sales and operations with Marriott International, Gaylord Opryland, and Starwood Hotels Worldwide, respectively. In recent years, Nashville’s hospitality community has grown to a $7 billion dollar industry. Diversity in all areas is critical to the city’s continued success as a welcoming destination for all. Marie’s recent features in several news articles and news media programs speak to the importance of the NCVC’s role in promotion of Nashville’s rich history, culture and entertainment offerings locally, nationally and internationally.
A member of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and Religious Conference Manager Assn, Marie also serves on the boards of the National Museum of African American Music (serving on several committees), the Nashville Children’s Theatre, and From the Heart International Education Foundation. Her community engagement, support and committee work on behalf of the NCVC is extensive, including (but not limited to) organizations and events such as the NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet (NAACP Life Member), Urban League of Middle TN Equal Opportunity Day Luncheon, Nashville Jazz Workshop Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Fisk Jubilee Singers Annual Spring Sing, St. Jude Spirit of the Dream, and festivals and events representing a variety of cultures that take place around the city throughout the year. She serves on TSU’s John Merritt Classic, Women of Legend and Merit Gala and Homecoming committees, in addition to assisting and promoting other HBCUs in various efforts. Her focus in these areas allow her to continue to help develop and promote new initiatives that further highlight Nashville’s diversity to visitors and locals alike.
Dr. Rolando Toyos
Rolando Toyos, M.D, Owner/Founder,
Toyos Clinics
Dr. Toyos is originally from California. He graduated from Santa Rosa High School where he played Varsity Basketball, Baseball and Football and was a finalist for the CIF Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award. He received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from The University of California, Berkeley and Stanford University, where he was a straight A student. Before beginning medical school, Dr. Toyos worked as a high school teacher and basketball coach. He won the National Teaching Award from Columbia University for his science curriculum development and his work with at-risk children. He then received his medical degree at the University of Illinois where he was Class President, graduating with James Scholar Academic Honors and received a community service award for helping Chicago City Public Schools develop a pre-med program for students interested in medicine. He completed his internship in Internal Medicine at Illinois Masonic Hospital in Chicago. He completed his Ophthalmology residency at Northwestern University and Chicago Children's Hospital. Dr. Toyos spent one year performing LASIK at the Assil Eye Institute in Beverly Hills.
Dr. Toyos is Board Certified in Ophthalmology and specializes in Cataract Surgery, LASIK, Glaucoma, and Dry Eye. He is one of the most experienced surgeons in the country, completing over 35,000 cataract surgeries, 20,000 glaucoma laser treatments and 25,000 LASIK surgeries. He was the first surgeon to combine Laser Cataract Surgery with Aqualase creating a new Laser For Cataract Surgery L4C procedure. He holds various patents including one for a light based technology used for the treatment of Dry Eye. Dr. Toyos is the inventor of the procedure Intense Pulse Light IPL for Dry Eye Disease. Recently the United Nations (UNESCO) honored Dr. Toyos with an Innovation Award. He has trained hundreds of surgeons both nationally and internationally on surgical techniques, medications and new technologies. He has authored several papers and books. One book for medical students, now in its 3rd edition, was a best seller on college campuses for several years. His newest book Dry Eye Disease Treatment in the Year 2020 was number 2 on the Amazon Best Sellers List. He belongs to many professional organizations including the Sports Ophthalmology Society of America (SOSA) of which he is the current president.
Dr. Toyos has worked with various professional sports teams and organizations like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and World Boxing Association, Memphis Grizzlies, Seattle Mariners, and Memphis Redbirds to name a few. He has been named one of The Best Doctors and is the only eye surgeon in Tennessee voted Top Doc by Trusted Lasik Surgeons.
Dr. Toyos is involved in the community. He won The Humanitarian Award by the Jazz Foundation of America for providing free surgical care to the displaced victims of Hurricane Katrina. He recently won the Leadership Award from National Hispanic Professional Organization. He volunteers his time to Eye Care America, a national program that provides eye care to the poor. The clinic has completed mission trips to Nicaragua, Honduras, Columbia and Haiti. He has been a board member of Ballet Memphis and the Memphis Rock & Soul Museum. He has won several community awards like, CEO of the Year Inside Memphis Business, The Memphis Business Journal's Top 40 Under 40, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Memphis Finest, and Memphis Magazine's Who's Who.
Toyos Clinic has been recognized as one the fastest growing companies in the United States by Inc. Magazine.
For fun, Dr. Toyos loves spending time with his wife and three girls.
Toyos Clinics
Dr. Toyos is originally from California. He graduated from Santa Rosa High School where he played Varsity Basketball, Baseball and Football and was a finalist for the CIF Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award. He received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from The University of California, Berkeley and Stanford University, where he was a straight A student. Before beginning medical school, Dr. Toyos worked as a high school teacher and basketball coach. He won the National Teaching Award from Columbia University for his science curriculum development and his work with at-risk children. He then received his medical degree at the University of Illinois where he was Class President, graduating with James Scholar Academic Honors and received a community service award for helping Chicago City Public Schools develop a pre-med program for students interested in medicine. He completed his internship in Internal Medicine at Illinois Masonic Hospital in Chicago. He completed his Ophthalmology residency at Northwestern University and Chicago Children's Hospital. Dr. Toyos spent one year performing LASIK at the Assil Eye Institute in Beverly Hills.
Dr. Toyos is Board Certified in Ophthalmology and specializes in Cataract Surgery, LASIK, Glaucoma, and Dry Eye. He is one of the most experienced surgeons in the country, completing over 35,000 cataract surgeries, 20,000 glaucoma laser treatments and 25,000 LASIK surgeries. He was the first surgeon to combine Laser Cataract Surgery with Aqualase creating a new Laser For Cataract Surgery L4C procedure. He holds various patents including one for a light based technology used for the treatment of Dry Eye. Dr. Toyos is the inventor of the procedure Intense Pulse Light IPL for Dry Eye Disease. Recently the United Nations (UNESCO) honored Dr. Toyos with an Innovation Award. He has trained hundreds of surgeons both nationally and internationally on surgical techniques, medications and new technologies. He has authored several papers and books. One book for medical students, now in its 3rd edition, was a best seller on college campuses for several years. His newest book Dry Eye Disease Treatment in the Year 2020 was number 2 on the Amazon Best Sellers List. He belongs to many professional organizations including the Sports Ophthalmology Society of America (SOSA) of which he is the current president.
Dr. Toyos has worked with various professional sports teams and organizations like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and World Boxing Association, Memphis Grizzlies, Seattle Mariners, and Memphis Redbirds to name a few. He has been named one of The Best Doctors and is the only eye surgeon in Tennessee voted Top Doc by Trusted Lasik Surgeons.
Dr. Toyos is involved in the community. He won The Humanitarian Award by the Jazz Foundation of America for providing free surgical care to the displaced victims of Hurricane Katrina. He recently won the Leadership Award from National Hispanic Professional Organization. He volunteers his time to Eye Care America, a national program that provides eye care to the poor. The clinic has completed mission trips to Nicaragua, Honduras, Columbia and Haiti. He has been a board member of Ballet Memphis and the Memphis Rock & Soul Museum. He has won several community awards like, CEO of the Year Inside Memphis Business, The Memphis Business Journal's Top 40 Under 40, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Memphis Finest, and Memphis Magazine's Who's Who.
Toyos Clinic has been recognized as one the fastest growing companies in the United States by Inc. Magazine.
For fun, Dr. Toyos loves spending time with his wife and three girls.
Yuri Cunza
President and CEO
Yuri Cunza is a Hispanic media professional, business and community advocate. He serves as President and CEO of the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and is co-founder of the Spanish language newspaper La Noticia.
In 2018 Yuri Cunza was selected to serve on the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, serving as Chair of Region VI which represents Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South. Carolina, and Tennessee.
Yuri Cunza is a board member of several local, regional and national non-profit organizations, and serves on the Tennessee Advisory Committee for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition and The Partnership for a New American Economy. He has attended the Mendoza School of Business at University of Notre Dame and Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government.
In 2013 Yuri Cunza received the NFL's Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award, and in December of 2014 the Outstanding Service to Forward Human Rights Award at Tennessee's Human Rights Day in Nashville.
In 2015, Cunza received the first, Avant-Garde MOSAIC Award for the 'Advancement of Diversity', from the AAF-Nashville and since 2010 he has been named to the Nashville Post's "In Charge" list of business leaders who are writing Music City's success story.
President and CEO
Yuri Cunza is a Hispanic media professional, business and community advocate. He serves as President and CEO of the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and is co-founder of the Spanish language newspaper La Noticia.
In 2018 Yuri Cunza was selected to serve on the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, serving as Chair of Region VI which represents Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South. Carolina, and Tennessee.
Yuri Cunza is a board member of several local, regional and national non-profit organizations, and serves on the Tennessee Advisory Committee for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition and The Partnership for a New American Economy. He has attended the Mendoza School of Business at University of Notre Dame and Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government.
In 2013 Yuri Cunza received the NFL's Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award, and in December of 2014 the Outstanding Service to Forward Human Rights Award at Tennessee's Human Rights Day in Nashville.
In 2015, Cunza received the first, Avant-Garde MOSAIC Award for the 'Advancement of Diversity', from the AAF-Nashville and since 2010 he has been named to the Nashville Post's "In Charge" list of business leaders who are writing Music City's success story.
Elizabeth B. Ozment
Legal Counsel
Ozment Law
Elizabeth is an attorney licensed to practice by the Supreme Court of Tennessee. An immigrant herself who attained U.S. citizenship, Ms. Ozment is uniquely aware of the challenges and hurdles immigrants face as they endeavor to make the United States their home. As the spouse of the late Elliott Ozment, the founder of Ozment Law, Elizabeth served as Mr. Ozment’s confidante and most trusted assistant for 20 years, developing her own knowledge of the law and gaining invaluable experience while helping countless immigrants realize their American dreams. Mr. Ozment taught Elizabeth the same tenacity to fight against injustice that made him a Tennessee legend. Ms. Ozment, a native of Colombia, graduated with honors from Lipscomb University and obtained her law degree from the Belmont University School of Law.
Prior to practicing law, Ms. Ozment was the office manager at Ozment Law, PLC. Ms. Ozment is fully bilingual in English and Spanish and resides in Nashville with her family.
Legal Counsel
Ozment Law
Elizabeth is an attorney licensed to practice by the Supreme Court of Tennessee. An immigrant herself who attained U.S. citizenship, Ms. Ozment is uniquely aware of the challenges and hurdles immigrants face as they endeavor to make the United States their home. As the spouse of the late Elliott Ozment, the founder of Ozment Law, Elizabeth served as Mr. Ozment’s confidante and most trusted assistant for 20 years, developing her own knowledge of the law and gaining invaluable experience while helping countless immigrants realize their American dreams. Mr. Ozment taught Elizabeth the same tenacity to fight against injustice that made him a Tennessee legend. Ms. Ozment, a native of Colombia, graduated with honors from Lipscomb University and obtained her law degree from the Belmont University School of Law.
Prior to practicing law, Ms. Ozment was the office manager at Ozment Law, PLC. Ms. Ozment is fully bilingual in English and Spanish and resides in Nashville with her family.
Blair Dudley
Chief Financial Officer
Blair Dudley, is a seasoned professional with an accounting degree and an MBA, has successfully conquered the challenges of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. With extensive experience, Blair has conducted over 100 business audits and participated in more than 10,000 IRS examinations. Beyond the traditional accountant's role, there's a multifaceted story that defines Blair's professional journey.
As the founder of Pro-Vision Business Solutions, Blair leads a dedicated team providing comprehensive solutions to diverse business challenges. Excelling in ensuring compliance with Federal and State tax laws, bookkeeping, and payroll processing, Pro-Vision also specializes in offering strategic guidance for startups and growth initiatives. Blair's relational and success-targeted approach aims to build a more efficient version of clients' businesses, helping them realize their visions.
Notably, Blair co-founded Foundation Group in late 1995, initially as a modest tax-related venture. Despite a humble first-year revenue of $6,000, Blair and a business partner pressed on, leading Foundation Group to remarkable success by early 2011. Under Blair's leadership, the company facilitated the formation of over 12,000 nonprofit organizations, impacting the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and employing 25 families. Even after departure, Foundation Group remains an industry leader, continuing to guide nonprofits through their initial steps to formation. Blair's extensive experience over 15 years with Foundation Group significantly contributed to a profound understanding of business dynamics and strategy.
Chief Financial Officer
Blair Dudley, is a seasoned professional with an accounting degree and an MBA, has successfully conquered the challenges of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. With extensive experience, Blair has conducted over 100 business audits and participated in more than 10,000 IRS examinations. Beyond the traditional accountant's role, there's a multifaceted story that defines Blair's professional journey.
As the founder of Pro-Vision Business Solutions, Blair leads a dedicated team providing comprehensive solutions to diverse business challenges. Excelling in ensuring compliance with Federal and State tax laws, bookkeeping, and payroll processing, Pro-Vision also specializes in offering strategic guidance for startups and growth initiatives. Blair's relational and success-targeted approach aims to build a more efficient version of clients' businesses, helping them realize their visions.
Notably, Blair co-founded Foundation Group in late 1995, initially as a modest tax-related venture. Despite a humble first-year revenue of $6,000, Blair and a business partner pressed on, leading Foundation Group to remarkable success by early 2011. Under Blair's leadership, the company facilitated the formation of over 12,000 nonprofit organizations, impacting the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and employing 25 families. Even after departure, Foundation Group remains an industry leader, continuing to guide nonprofits through their initial steps to formation. Blair's extensive experience over 15 years with Foundation Group significantly contributed to a profound understanding of business dynamics and strategy.