October is Women Small Business Month, and as Business and Community Lenders of Texas (BCL) celebrates women-owned small businesses, we are also proud to recognize another significant milestone with the appointment of Raquel Valdez Sanchez as our new President & CEO. Raquel succeeds Rosa Rios Valdez, who founded BCL, and who for 34 years, helped advance economic opportunities for diverse and underserved communities throughout Texas.

Raquel is excited to build on Rosa’s legacy of expanding opportunities for individuals and families to achieve financial stability and pursue their dreams. With an 18-year track record in community and economic development, Raquel has played an integral part in BCL’s growth, particularly as Chief Operating Officer. In this position, she oversaw day-to-day operations and expanded BCL’s services in Austin and Dallas, which includes homeownership, small business development, and community revitalization programs. Under her leadership, BCL’s programs have flourished, creating jobs, promoting sustainable business practices, and empowering individuals with financial education and resources.

“I’m honored to have been chosen to lead this amazing organization,” Raquel said upon assuming her new role. “As a young girl, I remember watching my mother, a pioneer in this industry, as she worked with small business owners and community members. It made me determined to want to work on behalf of underserved communities across our state.”

Raquel’s extensive experience and passion for community development makes her an ideal leader for BCL, and her story mirrors BCL’s mission to advance economic development and create equitable opportunities for all Texans. As one of the few Latina leaders among the nation’s 1,400 Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Raquel’s role as CEO not only highlights her expertise but also reflects BCL’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. With her extensive background in lending and economic empowerment, and her network across Texas and the nation, she is poised to carry forward the values and vision Rosa embedded into the organization.

Rosa transformed BCL from a local lender into a statewide nonprofit powerhouse that champions economic and community development. Her impact reaches deep into Texas communities, with BCL facilitating over $1.9 billion in loans and supporting more than 8,000 economically disadvantaged families. Rosa’s legacy as a pioneer and advocate will continue as Founder in Residence, a role she holds until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition as BCL continues our work building vibrant communities across Texas.

Reflecting on her time with BCL, Rosa said, “I’m incredibly proud of what we have accomplished at BCL. Formed in 1990 by community leaders during an economic recession to lend in Central Texas, BCL is now statewide and is the most diverse loan-product economic development firm in Texas.” Rosa’s legacy is woven into BCL’s fabric, with her leadership setting a foundation of strategic innovation and service that continues to uplift communities across the state.

Looking ahead, BCL’s employees, customers, and stakeholders can anticipate a seamless transition and continued innovation under Raquel’s guidance. Her focus will remain on expanding access to capital and resources for underserved communities while nurturing BCL’s strong partnerships with local leaders, businesses, and community members.

As October shines a light on the achievements of women in business, BCL’s transition is a reminder of the power of leadership, mentorship, and vision. Raquel’s ascension is not just a continuation of Rosa’s legacy but also a new chapter that promises growth and progress. Under her leadership, BCL is well-positioned to drive community revitalization and foster a more inclusive economy.

In Raquel Valdez Sanchez, BCL has found a leader who embodies our mission to provide accessible lending solutions, financial education, and strategic growth opportunities. As Raquel takes the helm, BCL’s employees, partners, and stakeholders can be assured that BCL will continue to advance economic opportunities for all Texans.

This October, we invite you to join us in celebrating Women Small Business Month, in honoring the trailblazing leadership of Rosa Rios Valdez, and in embracing Raquel Valdez Sanchez as BCL’s new President & CEO. This passing of the torch symbolizes more than just a leadership transition, it represents a continuity of our work toward building resilient, prosperous communities and a shared vision of a more equitable Texas.