Foundation Sponsored Events

This keynote provides participants with the different dimensions of diversity in today’s environment. Aspects of cultural differences, strengths, and challenges will be examined and examples will be provided. LTC Kickbusch will provide her personal story of challenges and triumphs as a child of the “barrio” who succeeded in spite of many cultural, social and educational obstacles. She gently guides her audience to a better understanding of cultural differences and similarities, as she emphasizes that appreciation of diverse cultures and their contributions to today’s society is a very important element of a successful and productive world. LTC Kickbusch will provide insights for successful professional development and personal growth. This introspective keynote will force participants to look inward at themselves, their work environments, and communities and motivate them to take action.

Born and raised along the border in a small barrio in Laredo, Texas, Consuelo Kickbusch  overcame poverty, discrimination, and illiteracy to become the successful community leader she is today. Although she grew up without material wealth, Kickbusch was taught by her immigrant parents that she was rich in culture, tradition, values, and faith. The values Kickbusch learned during childhood were reinforced throughout her career in the United States military. After graduating from Hardin Simmons University, she entered the US Army as an officer and served for two decades. While in the military, she broke barriers and set records to become the highest ranking Hispanic woman in the Combat Support Field of the US Army. In 1996, she was selected out of 26,000 candidates to assume a command post, which would put her on track for the rank of general officer. She respectfully declined the honor and retired as a 22-year veteran of the US Army to fulfill her mother's dying wish – for her to return to her roots and become a community leader. In realizing her dream, she founded Educational Achievement Services, Inc. with a mission to prepare tomorrow's leaders.

Following the keynote, The AAMFT Research & Education Foundation will host, speaker Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch, a renowned community leader whose Family Leadership Institute provides parents with knowledge, tools, and inspiration to help their children succeed in school and in life. Proceeds benefit the AAMFT Research and Education Foundation. Add this event during registration. Saturday from 6:45PM- 7:45 PM; fee is $50.00.

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