Today we’d like to introduce you to Gloria Torres-Herbeck.
Hi Gloria, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Gloria Torres-Herbeck. My name holds a special meaning. My parents chose my name since I was born on Glory Day (the Saturday of Catholic Holy Week). My last name is a combination of my maiden name (Torres) and my husband’s last name (Herbeck). I was raised in a busy home: a family of eight children (I am no. 7) and two hardworking parents that ran their own business. I was one of 6 girls and two boys (one brother passed).
I was born and raised in Mexico, surrounded by the vibrant culture, warmth, and traditions that shaped who I am. Life brought an unexpected opportunity when IBM selected me for an eight-month project in the United States. At the time, I thought this would be a career-defining moment in programming. Little did I know, it would completely change the direction of my life—in the most beautiful way.
While working at IBM, I quickly realized that programming wasn’t my true calling. But something extraordinary happened: I met my husband. What started as a professional opportunity became a deeply personal turning point. We fell in love, and after returning to Mexico, we got married. That was 32 years ago, and today, we share our lives with three wonderful grown children—and a sweet Labradoodle who keeps us smiling every day. Our family proudly honors our heritage—from enjoying sopes(Mexican), kolaches (Czech), and lefse (Irish) to celebrating quinceañeras (see my daughter’s quinceañera picture) and spending the Fourth of July at our lake cabin. We’ve been intentional about raising our children to appreciate and embrace the richness of multiple cultures.
My experience at IBM also opened my eyes to something else: the stereotypes and misconceptions people have about Latinos. I’ll never forget being asked if I rode a horse to work, or if I spoke “Mexican.” (I speak Spanish.) These comments, though perhaps said in jest, revealed a deeper lack of understanding that stayed with me.
When I moved back to the U.S., a new path opened up. I was asked to teach Spanish, and to my surprise, I fell in love with it. I found a deep sense of purpose in sharing my language and culture. What once felt like a “defect”—my accent, my broken English—became my greatest strength. Teaching Spanish became my gift to offer, a way to bridge cultures and build connections. I have been teaching for 31 years and am still going to work every day!
My first year in the U.S. was also one of my hardest. I couldn’t return to Mexico due to the residency process, and language barriers made it difficult to find my place. But over time, I found my voice—both as an educator and as an advocate.
As I taught and lived here, I began to notice that stereotypes didn’t just come from strangers; they showed up in schools, workplaces, and even within families. I wanted to change that narrative. I wanted to celebrate the richness and joy of our Latino culture—not just among ourselves, but with the entire community.
That desire led me to join the Alliance of Chicanos, Hispanics, and Latin Americans (ACHLA) in 2013. I wanted to be a bridge—someone who could help to empower Latinos who needed some help with language or just learning the new culture, who could build understanding, inclusion, and pride in our shared cultural heritage. I also became involved in planning Latino Fest in 2018, which first began in 2005 at Rochester parks. When I became the president of ACHLA in 2019, I knew I wanted to take the celebration to the next level.
In 2022, we brought Latino Fest to the downtown theater. I wanted our culture to be celebrated in a space as beautiful as the traditions we hold dear. That first year, 1,500 people attended. Last year, the crowd grew to 2,500. People of all ages and ethnicities came together—laughing, dancing, eating, and celebrating life. Seeing that joy fills my heart in a way I can’t fully describe.
Today, Latino Fest is my part-time job, and I continue to raise funds for ACHLA to grow into a sustainable nonprofit. My other job is teaching high school students, which still brings me immense joy. I love sharing our language, our stories, and our traditions with the next generation. I also work as a supplemental clinical research coordinator with the Rochester Health Community Partnership, helping support meaningful research in our community.
People often ask how I do it all. The truth is, I work a lot—but I love it so much that it doesn’t feel like work. Life has given me so many blessings, and I’m choosing to live it to the fullest. Every day is a chance to give back, to build bridges, and to celebrate the beauty of who we are.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As I mentioned previously, one of my biggest initial challenges was the language barrier—what once felt like a daily riddle is now one of my greatest strengths. Another challenge was building a social network and finding a support system, a common hurdle for many newcomers. Fortunately, I’ve been incredibly lucky to find a group of friends and neighbors who have become my chosen family. We share life’s moments together—birthdays, quinceañeras, weddings, trips, and even funerals. Basically, if there’s food and emotions involved, we’re there.
Then came winter. My first Minnesota December greeted me with icy roads and a surprise demolition of the mailbox—courtesy of my less-than-graceful attempt at turning into the driveway. Growing up in a city where 80 degrees is standard and sunset isn’t at 5 p.m. for half the year didn’t exactly prepare me for snow boots and shovels.
Lastly, being far from home has been its own challenge. I often wish I could visit more frequently, but instead of letting that distance weigh me down, I’ve turned it into motivation. I’ve embraced the role of cultural ambassador, sharing the warmth, traditions, and flavors of my homeland with those around me—one dish, one story, and one smile at a time.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
The Alliance of Chicanos, Hispanics, and Latin Americans (ACHLA) is a grassroots nonprofit organization based in Rochester, Minnesota, serving the broader southeastern Minnesota region. What makes us unique is our deep-rooted, community-centered approach—we don’t just serve Latino families, we work alongside them to build a stronger, more connected, and more inclusive community for everyone.
ACHLA is dedicated to empowering and advocating for the rights and well-being of Chicanos, Hispanics, and Latin Americans. We do this through a broad range of programs focused on education, civic engagement, health, economic development, cultural exchange, and communication.
What we do and specialize in:
Educational Opportunities: We partner with Education Navigators to co-create systems that meet the real, day-to-day needs of families. Our team also represents Latino voices in collaborative spaces across the region, ensuring that information, resources, and opportunities reach the Hispanic and BIPOC communities.
Civic Engagement: From voter registration to workforce development, we are committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to fully participate in civic life.
Health Equity: ACHLA plays an active role in community-based health research and outreach, contributing to programs that promote wellness, access, and equity for Latino populations.
Economic Development: Through our partnership with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), we provide free, confidential business consulting to help individuals start, grow, or plan for the future of their businesses.
Cultural Exchange: One of our signature events, Latino Fest, brings thousands together each year to celebrate the rich diversity of Latin America. It’s a joyful celebration of culture, music, dance, food, and unity—reminding us that while not all Latinos are the same, our diversity is a strength.
Communication: We act as a trusted bridge between the Latino community and local institutions, facilitating two-way communication and multicultural engagement across all sectors.
What sets ACHLA apart?
We are part of the community we serve. ACHLA was founded and is led by individuals who understand the lived experiences of the Latino population in southeastern Minnesota. ACHLA was a volunteer based non-profit organization for 18 years. This gives us a deep level of trust, credibility, and connection. We’re known for showing up where it matters—whether that’s helping families navigate education systems, amplifying cultural pride through celebration, or guiding entrepreneurs as they chase their dreams.
What are we most proud of?
Brand-wise, we are proud to be recognized as an organization that empowers and supports our hardworking Latino community. Latino Fest has become a symbol of community pride and unity, drawing thousands of people from all backgrounds to celebrate together. We’re proud that what started in a park has now grown into a landmark city event held in one of Rochester’s most beautiful downtown venues.
What do we want readers to know?
ACHLA is more than an organization- we are a movement for equity, opportunity, and cultural celebration. Whether you’re a student, a parent, a small business owner, or a community partner, there is a place for you here. We invite you to connect with us, celebrate with us, and help build a future where everyone in our community has a voice, a role, and a reason to thrive.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Rochester is its incredible diversity and strong sense of community. Even though it’s a small city, it feels vibrant and global—thanks in large part to the many people who come from all over the world to visit or work at Mayo Clinic. I truly enjoy learning from others—their languages, their traditions, their food, and their stories. Being surrounded by such cultural richness makes every day feel like a new opportunity to grow and connect. As much as I learn from others, I know we are more similar than different.
When I first came to the United States, I felt welcomed. Over time, I built strong roots here, surrounded by a wonderful group of friends and neighbors who quickly became like family. That support made all the difference—it turned Rochester from just a new place into a true home.
One of the things I appreciate most about Rochester is how accessible and welcoming the city feels. From being able to reach out to the Mayor’s office, to getting help at the grocery store, to visiting with a school principal without feeling intimidated—it’s a community that truly values connection and open communication.
Being involved in Latino Fest has also opened many doors for me. It’s not just a cultural celebration—it’s been a gateway to meaningful relationships, partnerships, and opportunities to stay engaged and active throughout the year. It keeps me busy in every season, doing work I love and connecting with people from all walks of life. I learned so much from Latinos in Rochester and love to stay connected and visit their country when they move. Traveling has opened not only my eyes, but my heart. For my husband and me, travel isn’t just an escape from our daily lives—it’s a meaningful way to learn from others and immerse ourselves in different cultures and traditions.
Coming from Guadalajara, a city of over 5 million people, one of the first things I noticed (and loved!) about Rochester was the lack of traffic. It’s a joy to spend less time stuck in a car and more time with loved ones. The pace of life here allows for a better balance between work, community involvement, and personal time.
Even though I deeply miss my six siblings and extended family—who all still live in Guadalajara—I feel incredibly blessed to have found a place to call home here in Rochester.
As for what I like least—it has to be the long, harsh winters. I do appreciate the beauty of all four seasons in Minnesota, but the cold and limited daylight during winter can feel emotionally heavy. Still, I try to focus on the bright side: I love the events created by Minnesotans to enjoy the seasons, such as the Ice Sculptures. Winter eventually passes and when it does, the return of spring and sunshine feels that much more special.
Overall, I love Rochester. It’s a city that welcomed me with open arms and gave me the space to grow, contribute, and thrive. It continues to inspire me to give back and help create an even more inclusive and connected community for others.
Pricing:
- Latino Fest Sponsor- Presenting Sponsor:- $15,000
- Latino Fest- Leadership Sponsor- $10,000
- Latino Fest- Gold Sponsor- $7,500.00
- Latino Fest- Silver Sponsor: $5,000
- Latino Fest- Bronze Sponsor: $2,500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.achla-mn.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/achla.mn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/achlarochester/
