T. Vasquez

Ancestors

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Biography

First generation U.S. citizen, my parents immigrated from Durango and Guanajuato, Mexico to California in the late 1960s. They both became naturalized citizens in the 80s.

Bachelor's of Science, 2001 Master of Business Administration, 2009

I love spending time tracing my family's history in Mexico and also enjoy reading and learning about the history of Durango and Guanajuato.

In Durango, I have ancestors that worked as field hands since the 1600s at the Hacienda San Isidro de La Punta, established in 1573. Additionally, many of our ancestors can also be traced to Nombre de Dios, one of the earliest settlements in Nueva Vizcaya. The Hacienda is still in operation today, primarily focused on the production of livestock. There are a couple of books written about the Hacienda de La Punta for those interested: - "San Isidro de la Punta - Historia de una hacienda duranguense" by Graziella Altamirano Cozzi, 2007 - "Cuatro siglos de vida de una Hacienda" by Atanasio G. Saravia, 1959

In Guanajuato, I also have several ancestors which worked at various haciendas in the region of Silao y Romita. My great grandfather Merced Arevalo was a master carpenter for the Parroquia de Santa María de Guadalupe (Romita, Guanajuato) his work included confessionals done in Barroque style some of which are still in use. He also made the main church doors which have been replaced but stood for over 50 years.

Both of my grandfathers were a part of the Bracero program in the late 1950's.

I am proud of the humble and hardworking family lineage. It has taught me to treat others with respect regardless of their social or economic standing. I was the first in my family to obtain a college degree and the first with a Master's Degree. I obtained additional certifications in Lean and Six Sigma and my claim to fame (all 15 mins of it) is having a U.S. patent. I led and founded a couple of Hispanic Organizations; Latina Leadership Network and Hispanic Organization for Leadership Advancement in Southern CA (corporate networking.)

My Motto's and Affirmations are: - "La tierra volvera a quienes la trabajan con sus manos" Emiliano Zapata (The land belongs to those who work it with their hands.) -Life is just a dream - I break generational curses and through it I heal my ancestors

I enjoy sharing all that I have learned about our family's history and teaching others how to get started,

Sources