Board Member Spotlight
Mrs. Landen Villanueva has 20 years’ experience in the public and private sector supporting the US Navy – first as an enlisted sailor, then as a private industry contractor, and now as a public servant working for the Navy. Landen is a graduate of the University of Phoenix (B.S. in Business Management) and San Diego State University (M.S. in Public Administration). She is an enthusiastic mom, wife, triathlete, and musician. This will be the beginning of Landen’s journey with WE, and she is excited for the opportunity to do great things with WE!
And we are so pleased to welcome her to the Board. Thank you, Landen, for your service!
Q & A with Landen…
Q: How did you first find WE or get introduced to WE?
A: I was introduced to WE by Win Cox.
Q: What sparked your interest in joining the Board?
A: I met Win prior to COVID, but we really spent a lot of time together during COVID. It was during that time that she first mentioned WE and that she thought I could be an asset to the team. I attended a fundraiser at Win’s house and learned much more about the organization, the amazing things WE does, and the wonderful people that support it. Through her gentle nudging and seeing her passion for this organization, I endeavored to learn more and now here I am!
Q: What are you most excited to contribute to the Board and WE’s governance?
A: I have a lot of energy to give and I am excited to apply myself anywhere that my assistance would be welcomed. I have been a jack of all trades throughout my career and hopefully my colorful background can be a positive asset for WE.
Q: How do you spend your time when not volunteering with WE?
A: I am a mom first, and a triathlete second. Together with my husband, I have a 7 year old daughter and a 9 year old son. We also have 3 huge dogs and two tortoises and so my house is often loud and messy! I didn’t find athletics until I was an adult, and I recently stumbled upon triathlon. I have been enjoying this sport for almost 4 years now and I am about to complete my 5th Half Ironman this September. When I am not training or cuddling with my family, my love of music prevails. I sing and play trumpet and french horn, and I am currently trying to learn the drums (!) but who knows how that will turn out!
Q. What’s one of your favorite inspirational/motivational quotes?
A: I don’t think I have a favorite, per se; I just love quotes around kindness and happiness. Here are a couple: “Happiness adds and multiplies, as we divide it with others.” ~ A. Nielsen, and, “It is not joy that makes us grateful, it is gratitude that makes us joyful.” ~ Unknown.
Q. What was the last good book you read or what’s next on your reading list?
A. One of my favorite books is Simon Sinek’s Start with Why, and I am also a fan of Ken Blanchard’s writing.
To learn more about volunteering with WE, click here or email info@womenempowerment.org. There are many ways to get involved!
To see the complete list of our Board Members, click here.