Leticia Medina, a longtime advocate for numerous youth programs and civic organizations, has been appointed director of the Office of Hispanic Affairs.
"With her community experience, she brings important skills necessary to bring government in touch with public needs," said David Winder, executive director of the Department of Community and Economic Development.Medina, chairwoman of the state's Hispanic Advisory Council, replaces Lorena Riffo, who took a marketing position with the DCED's National Business Development Program.
"It's definitely a challenge," Medina said. "The biggest issues to address will be economics, employment, educa- tion and health among Hispanics in Utah."
Medina has managed a job-training program with Salt Lake Neighborhood Housing Services for at-risk youths between 14 and 18 since 1992. She is also a consultant for the Salt Lake Boys and Girls Club and the Colors of Success program, working to deter youth from gang activity.
She will begin her duties Nov. 17.