Programs & Initiatives
Leadership
About the Hispanic Austin Leadership Program (HAL)
The Hispanic Austin Leadership (HAL) Program develops visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates equipped to drive meaningful change for Austin’s Latino community. Recognized as one of the top seven Hispanic leadership programs in the U.S., HAL has delivered a multi-million-dollar economic impact in Central Texas since its founding in 1999.
Know someone who would thrive in HAL? Applications for the 2026-2027 HAL Cohort are NOW OPEN and due by Friday, August 14, 2026. We hope you'll help us spread the word!
Over nine months, HAL participants dive into one full-day session each month, engaging directly with seven key sectors shaping our region’s future. Through hands-on interdisciplinary learning and community impact projects, they gain the skills, insights, and connections to lead with purpose and drive change.
- Healthcare
- Environmental Sustainability
- Civic Engagement
- Finance
- Arts & Culture
- Education
- Technology
HAL empowers participants to tackle the challenges and opportunities facing Austin’s Hispanic and broader communities through collaboration, innovation, and action. Together, they develop solutions that advance the GAHCC’s mission and create lasting impact.
By joining or supporting HAL, you invest in a future driven by strong, diverse leadership. We encourage individuals passionate about service, leadership, and community engagement to apply and help build a stronger, more equitable Austin.
Year in Review - 2023, 2024 & 2025
Guillermo Calderon Award
The Guillermo Calderón, Jr. Award honors the legacy of a remarkable leader, volunteer, and community advocate. A 2010 HAL graduate, Guillermo was known for his resilience, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to service—qualities that left a lasting impact on those around him.
Presented annually, this peer-selected award recognizes a HAL cohort member who embodies Guillermo’s spirit of leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and passion for giving back. It celebrates not just achievement, but the heart, drive, and generosity that defined Guillermo’s legacy.
Ambassadors
GAHCC Ambassadors are key representatives of the Chamber, helping build relationships, welcome new members, attend ribbon cuttings, and support events that strengthen our business community.
Ambassador Expectations:
- Be an active GAHCC member in good standing
- Serve a 2-year term (renewable for 2 more years)
- Attend and support a set number of Chamber events annually
- Prioritize the Chamber when representing GAHCC (“Chamber first, company second”)
- Have schedule flexibility and company support to fulfill duties
- Guide members on benefits, share resources, and encourage engagement
- Relay feedback and promote GAHCC initiatives
This role offers a powerful platform to grow your network, increase visibility,
and lead within Central Texas’s dynamic business community.