California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Announces Leadership Change
Jaime Rojas to Assume Role of President & CEO

By Juan Esparza Loera / Vida en el Valle www.vidaenelvalle.com

SACRAMENTO, CA, January 17, 2006 – Henry Mendoza, Chairman of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (CHCC) announced today that Jaime Rojas, Jr., founder and principal of The Strategic Group, a Los Angeles public affairs firm, has been hired to serve as President & CEO of California’s largest Latino business advocacy group after an extensive search to replace outgoing President Julian Canete. Rojas commenced employment on January 3, 2006.

“The California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce is excited about Jaime and the years of experience that he brings to our group,” stated Mendoza. “The Latino business community, statewide and nationwide, has been experiencing strong growth over the past few years, and as an organization we are poised to make a significant impact in California. We are excited that Jaime will be part of our leadership team and will drive our continued growth. His ability to lead and grow an organization is clearly evidenced by experience. Jaime will be a strong advocate for Hispanic owned businesses and for small business as a whole. I think that it is important that we also thank Julian Canete for his years of loyal, dedicated service to the organization.”

Rojas, a resident of Whittier, holds a Masters Degree in Public Administration as well as a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Southern California. A seasoned professional with extensive experience in all phases of the business process, Rojas is a strong proponent of small business ownership.

“This is a very exciting opportunity,” added Rojas. “I am eager to jump in and make an immediate impact. My first priority is to meet with our stakeholders, including our corporate partners, chamber members and policymakers. I also look forward to executing the vision of Chairman Mendoza and the board of directors, and growing the organization as best as we can.”

About the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce

The California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce's (CHCC) primary goal is to represent the interest of over 600,000 Hispanic-owned businesses in the State of California. With a network of over 60 Hispanic chamber and business associations throughout the state, the CHCC is the premier and largest regional Hispanic business organization in the nation that promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs.