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CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Hispanic Heritage Month: Meet the co-leads of our Latino employee resource group.
New York Life | October 2, 2024
Pictured from left to right: Tanya Garzon, Patrick Pineyro
Patrick Pineyro, Purchase Experience; co-chair, Latinos for Excellence, Achievement & Development (LEAD) employee resource group:
Q: What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
A: My mom, a New York Life agent working primarily with the Hispanic and Latin community, taught me to embrace my culture and identity. As one of the few Hispanic students at school, I remember when my teacher invited my mom to cook paella and conduct a Spanish lesson. The students loved it! Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to discuss experiences, challenges, and celebrations.
Q: Tell us about your experience with LEAD.
A: In 2022, I joined the core leadership team, focusing on professional development and giving back to the New York Life community. LEAD is an inclusive community that encourages networking and friendship. I connected with a broader range of people across the company.
Q: How do you celebrate Hispanic Heritage month?
A: Food! Also, I’m Hispanic year-round, but during Hispanic Heritage Month, we explore the challenges and opportunities in our community. It’s a time for critical dialogue in the workplace and reflection on our heritage. I also give back through volunteer activities.
Tanya Garzon, New York Life Investment Management-MacKay Shields; co-chair, LEAD employee resource group:
Q: What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
A: As a second-generation Latina with Ecuadorian roots, this time of year is meaningful to me. I honor my ancestors and celebrate Latine contributions to the U.S. My parents taught my brother and me to embrace opportunities while cherishing our culture, and now we pass this heritage on to our children.
Q. In what ways are your work and your community connected?
A. As co-chair of LEAD, I'm honored to merge my passion for community with my professional journey. We are creating an inclusive space where Latine professionals can thrive and make a real difference. I’m grateful to be part of a company that truly cares about diversity and community impact.
Q: What is your favorite tradition from your culture(s)?
A: One of my cherished traditions is Año Nuevo in Ecuador. As a child, I traveled there annually for New Year celebrations. A unique tradition, Los Años Viejos, involves crafting life-size scarecrow-like dolls and burning them at midnight to release the previous year’s bad luck and negative energy. The artistry of these dolls is a sight to behold.
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Media contact
Lacey Siegel
New York Life Insurance Company
(212) 576-7937
Lacey_S_Siegel@newyorklife.com