BCL SELECTS RAQUEL VALDEZ SANCHEZ AS PRESIDENT & CEO
Experienced Leader Will Drive BCL’s Growth and Community Impact.

AUSTIN, TX – September 26, 2024 – Business & Community Lenders of Texas (BCL) is proud to announce the selection of Raquel Valdez Sanchez as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, following a rigorous search. With a proven track record of leadership and innovation, and unique background in championing housing, access to capital, and financial education, Ms. Sanchez will advance BCL’s mission and the organization’s strategic vision.

“I’m honored to have been chosen to lead this amazing organization,” said Raquel Valdez Sanchez, President & CEO of BCL of Texas. “I knew from a very early age that this would be my passion and my professional mission. As a young girl, I remember watching my mother, a pioneer in this industry, as she worked with small business owners and community members – going to meetings, ribbon cutting ceremonies, and other events – to create opportunities for people to succeed. It made me proud, and it made me determined to do my part to serve underserved communities throughout our state.”

Known for her ability to forge strong partnerships, Ms. Sanchez has collaborated with diverse leaders throughout Texas and the nation. Her leadership in these networks, and her years of professional experience in the lending industry, demonstrate her commitment and ability to effectively address the most pressing economic and social challenges of Texas’ underserved populations. Out of 1,400 Community Development Financial Institution’s (CDFI) nationwide, Ms. Sanchez represents one out of only 100 Latinos leading a CDFI. BCL is proud that through this selection, we again demonstrate our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the importance of investing in women and in the Latino community.

“Raquel’s extensive experience and passion for community development make her an ideal leader for BCL,” said William ‘Dub’ Sutherland, IV, BCL’s Board Chair. “Her track record of fostering economic growth and her commitment to empowering individuals align perfectly with our mission. We are excited to see how her leadership will shape BCL’s future.”

Ms. Sanchez brings 18 years of experience in community and economic development to the role, having previously served as BCL’s Chief Operating Officer (COO). Her expertise spans strategic growth, homeownership, and small business development, and she has been instrumental in expanding BCL’s services across Austin and Dallas. Under her leadership, BCL’s Homeownership, Community Development, and Entrepreneurship programs have thrived, helping countless individuals and businesses achieve their goals.

As COO, Ms. Sanchez managed daily operations and oversaw significant economic impacts on the communities BCL serves. These initiatives led to the creation of hundreds of new jobs and fostered sustainable business practices that promote healthy economic growth. Her experience also extends to personal finance and wealth-building, and empowering people to improve their financial stability, increase savings, and navigate the path to homeownership.

As the new CEO, Ms. Sanchez will build upon the legacy of BCL’s founder, Rosa Rios Valdez, who worked tirelessly to fuse federal funding with private sector capital and ensure that economically disadvantaged communities are not left behind. Rosa Rios Valdez will remain involved in the organization as Founder in Residence.

About BCL

Business & Community Lenders of Texas (BCL) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing economic and community development through strategic growth, financial education, and accessible lending solutions. With offices in Austin, Dallas, and San Marcos, BCL provides a range of services aimed at supporting homeownership, small business development, and community revitalization, with a focus on creating balanced economic opportunities and sustainable growth.