In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are commemorating leaders whose journeys guide and teach many of us, especially Latinx people pursuing a medical and health equity related field.

These role models and game changers are on our list of 50 Visionaries, people who have had a positive impact on the health of our patients and our community. They continue to inspire us, and so we honor them as part of our 50th anniversary celebration.

Sonia Sotomayor
Sonia Sotomayor is an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, who despite her traumatic childhood and struggles with diabetes, rose to become the first Hispanic and Latinx judge on the highest court in the land. She uses her platform to share her story and is a role model for our staff and patients.

David Hayes-Bautista
Dr. David Hayes-Bautista’s commitment to improving access to health care for vulnerable communities is an inspiration to our providers. He mentors Latinx people pursuing careers in health care nationwide, including a number of professionals who have established their careers at Venice Family Clinic.

Margarita Loeza
Dr. Margarita Loeza has been a provider at Venice Family Clinic since 2001 but first came to the Clinic as a patient when she was a child. Despite growing up in poverty, she persevered to become a doctor and has been committed to mentoring Latinx people who aspire to pursue medical careers.

Judy De La Torre
Judy de la Torre began her relationship with Venice Family Clinic as a volunteer, and then rose through the ranks to become nursing manager. For more than 30 years, she has been a passionate champion for and mentor to younger staff members, and has shown true dedication to providing exceptional care to our patients.

Dr. Jose Quiroga
Dr. Jose Quiroga is cofounder and director of medical services at the Program for Torture Victims, the first of its kind in the country, which he originally started at Venice Family Clinic.  His organization helps survivors of torture and persecution to rebuild their lives, and in so doing, stands up for freedom, democracy and human dignity.