OUR TEAM

Irina Sorrels

Founder-CEO and Executive Director

Irina Sorrels, originally from Santa Marta, Colombia, has lived in Indiana for over 22 years. She is a bestselling author, international speaker, and trauma-informed certified mentor, recognized for her leadership in the prevention of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking.

She is the Founder and CEO of HER Academy (Healing, Empowerment & Restoration), where she equips women to become professional mentors and agents of transformation, walking alongside survivors through processes of holistic healing and empowerment.

Her work has been featured on Telemundo and Univision, and in 2020 she was recognized by the Indiana Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking for her educational work and community impact. As a survivor and faith-based leader, Irina lives her calling with purpose, compassion, and courage, dedicating her life to restoring women and raising new leaders.

Marisa Zambrano

President

Marisa brings over 20 years of leadership experience across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, with a strong focus on Latino leadership, immigrant communities, and youth development. She previously served as Director of ENL (English as a New Language) for Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, where she led leadership and culturally responsive programs for Latina women and girls.

Born in Guatemala and raised in the United States, Marisa’s work is deeply rooted in her faith and her commitment to empowering the Latino community. She has held leadership roles at Marian University and currently serves as Executive Director of the Latino Leadership Initiative and the Marian Leadership Initiative, developing the next generation of leaders through mentorship, education, and community engagement.

David Woods

Vicepresident

David Woods is a lifelong Indianapolis resident with over 20 years of experience in media, marketing, and community engagement. He has worked with Radio One for 23 years and Telemundo for 13 years, using media as a platform to inform, connect, and serve diverse audiences—especially Spanish-speaking and immigrant communities. With a background in marketing and video production, David is recognized for his strengths in strategic storytelling, relationship-building, and community outreach, as well as for strengthening trust and visibility within the Latino community through responsible communication and long-standing partnerships.

Derek Torrico

Treasurer

Derek Torrico is a nonprofit professional dedicated to advancing equitable access, responsible financial stewardship, and sustainable services for immigrant communities. As Grants and Accounts Manager at the Immigrant Welcome Center, he supports mission-driven initiatives through strategic grant management and fiscal oversight. His passion for empowering immigrant families in Indianapolis guides his commitment to ethical, high-impact nonprofit work.

Yvette Vargas

Secretary

Yvette is a bilingual professional with a strong background in media, communications, community engagement, and human resources. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Supervision and brings valuable experience supporting nonprofit organizations and community-centered initiatives. Known for her collaborative leadership and strategic mindset, Yvette is deeply committed to advancing missions that create meaningful and lasting impact.

Maria Lusiana Tishner

Board of Directors

Maria Tishner is a respected community leader and immigrant advocate with decades of experience in community engagement, immigrant integration, and public service. Peruvian-born and based in Indiana, she has held key leadership roles, including President of the Indiana Latino Expo, fostering collaboration among community organizations and government partners.

Ana Santiago

Board of Directors

Ana Santiago serves as the Downtown and Near Westside Mayor’s Neighborhood Advocate for the City of Indianapolis, where she works in partnership with residents, businesses, and community organizations to advance civic engagement and neighborhood empowerment. Born in Mexico City and raised in the United States, she brings a strong commitment to inclusive public service and community advocacy.

John Dunlap

Board of Directors

John Dunlap was born and raised in central Indiana and currently resides in the Mooresville area with his wife, Marti. They have two grown sons, and John is actively involved in the Christian Church.

An accountant by trade, John has over 30 years of experience serving as CFO for multiple private industries. He currently serves as Manager of Missions and Finance for the Indiana Baptist Convention, a role he considers the most meaningful of his career.