Janet Murguía

As someone who has experienced the promise of the American Dream firsthand, Janet Murguía has devoted her career in public service to opening the door to that dream to millions of American families. Now, as a key figure among this generation of leaders in the Latino community, she continues this mission as President and CEO of UnidosUS, the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States.

Since 2005, Ms. Murguía has sought to strengthen UnidosUS's work and enhance its record of impact as a vital American institution. She has also worked to amplify the Latino voice on issues affecting the Hispanic community such as education, health care, immigration, civil rights, and the economy.

Ms. Murguía began her career as legislative counsel to former U.S. Rep. Jim Slattery. After working with Congressman Slattery for seven years she joined the Clinton administration, where she served for six years as a deputy assistant to President Clinton, including deputy director of legislative affairs. Following the White House, she was the Executive Vice Chancellor for University Relations at the University of Kansas (KU).

She has been recognized on numerous occasions for her work. She has been selected twice as one of Washingtonian magazine’s “100 Most Powerful Women in Washington” and as one of the NonProfit Times’ “Power and Influence Top 50” leaders. Prior to Unidos, she worked at the White House, ultimately serving as deputy assistant to President Clinton, and as Executive Vice Chancellor for University Relations at the University of Kansas (KU).

She received three degrees from the University of Kansas: a B.S. in journalism, a B.A. in Spanish, and a Juris Doctor from the School of Law. She also received an honorary degree - Doctor of Humane Letters - from California State University, Dominguez Hills and an honorary Doctor of Laws from Wake Forest University, and an honorary Doctor of Laws from Williams College.