Janet Padilla’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and transformative leadership. From her early years growing up in Chicago, Janet overcame significant challenges to become the first in her family of over 150 cousins to graduate from college and earn a master’s degree in public policy—both on full scholarships from the University of Michigan.
For over 20 years, Janet has been a visionary leader and strategic coach, empowering organizations and individuals across private and public sectors, as well as entrepreneurs and non-profit leaders. Her expertise spans strategic planning, coaching, facilitation, and cultivating organizational culture, with a focus on driving social impact and helping leaders elevate their practice to create meaningful change.
Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer for Ford Next Generation Learning (Ford NGL), Janet has played a pivotal role in transforming the organization’s culture and steering its strategic direction. Under her leadership, Ford NGL has built a powerful network of communities dedicated to reshaping the educational experience for students from diverse backgrounds, opening doors to opportunities that many, like Janet herself, once thought were out of reach.
Janet’s impact extends beyond her role at Ford NGL. She is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Now in her fourth year as an Executive Coach for the Chicago Latino Caucus Foundation Leadership Academy, she guides fellows through a facilitated process, equipping them with a strategic plan to achieve their personal and professional goals.
Janet’s passion for leadership and service began in high school. She started the Chicago Young Leaders debate team for the National Hispanic institute (NHI) and led it for over 10 years, supporting many Chicago youth as a mentor. Upon returning to Chicago, she became a founding member of the Young Professional Advisory Council for Mujeres Latinas en Acción and served as the inaugural chair for two terms. Her commitment continued as she took on the role of Governance Chair on the Board of Directors for the same organization.
Janet’s story is one of breaking barriers and creating opportunities—not just for herself, but for countless others. Today, she resides in Chicago with her husband, Andrew, an entrepreneur, and their two daughters, Talia and Alessia. Her life’s work is a powerful example of how determination and leadership can turn even the most humble beginnings into a legacy of impact and inspiration.
