For the fourth year in a row, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) was one of ten Omaha businesses that hosted a young professionals’ career day for 90 high school students selected by the Latino Center of the Midlands (LCM).
Nine of those students took part in the day of learning at BCBSNE led by Latinos Empowered to Achieve their Potential (LEAP), the company’s employee resource group (ERG) supporting Latino employees.
Christian Gallardo, IT compliance program manager and LEAP board member, says he finds value in the ongoing partnership with the LCM.
“Partnering with the Latino Center of the Midlands means so much to me,” Gallardo said. “It’s more than just collaboration; it’s about building trust, celebrating culture and creating pathways for success in our community. Together, we’re not just hosting events: we’re shaping futures.”
Gallardo says he found joy in welcoming the students to the office.
“The best part of the career day was seeing the genuine excitement and curiosity from the students,” Gallardo said. “Watching them engage with professionals, ask thoughtful questions and envision their own futures was incredibly inspiring. It reminded me why we do this work; to open doors and spark possibilities.”
Manager of Strategic Business Integration and LEAP President Amber Samuelson says she appreciated the collaboration across BCBSNE departments for the students.
“My favorite part of the day was the building tour,” Samuelson said. “We brought students to stops at the technology equipment room, the marketing and communication department, the board room, the new wellness center and shared so much company history. It was so well put together and we all learned so much!”
Gallardo and Samuelson acknowledged the 15 BCBSNE employees and LEAP members who made the career day possible. LEAP’s partnership with the LCM through projects like the career day furthers the ERG’s commitment to community.
“Career day was a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community in a way that aligns with LEAP’s values of belonging and empowerment,” Gallardo said. “Partnering with the Latino Center of the Midlands allowed us to connect with future talent while also strengthening relationships with other companies who share our commitment to belonging.”
Ultimately, the career day partnership brought connection for the young professionals in attendance.
“It’s moments like these that remind me how powerful collaboration can be,” Gallardo said, “both for the students and for us as professionals.”
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