KANSAS CIVIC NETWORK
Creating Tomorrow's Community Leaders
LEADERSHIP
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ANDRES MATA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Andres Mata is a 2017 graduate of Salina High School South and a 2021 graduate of Bethany College.
Andres has been active in politics and public service his entire life, beginning at the age of 9. At the age of 11, Andres led a fundraising effort for the country of Haiti, which raised over $1,700 in two weeks. At the age of 13, Andres was appointed by Mayor Norm Jennings to serve on the Salina Human Relations Commission. Andres was appointed to the Salina City Planning Commission, he served from 2015-2017. By serving, Andres played a significant role of being the voice of his generation in the overall social and economic development of Salina.
Andres was awarded the 2019-2020 Student Leader Community Award by Bethany College for his report on food insecurity which led to the creation of the Dala Pantry, a food pantry in Lindsborg.
In his free time, Andres enjoys traveling, keeping up with professional sports, and being with friends and family.
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FATIMA CONTRERAS
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
Fatima Contreras is a 2016 graduate of Salina Central High School and has been studying at Fort Hays State University ever since. In May of 2021, she plans on receiving her Bachelors in Social Work and then pursuing a Masters Degree the following year.
At Fort Hays State University, Fatima has been very involved. Her involvement is as follows; Student Assistant for Student Engagement where she works primarily with transition, inclusion and diversity, The National Society of Leadership and Success, Welcome and Orientation Leader, member of the Hispanic American Leadership Organization, Leader at the Hispanic College Institute and was a winner for the NASPA IV-W Rising Star Award for actively being involved and demonstrating campus leadership.
Currently, she holds the title of Miss Hays Latina. For her platform, she has chosen depression within new immigrant families in a community. Mental health is important and many people do not have the resources. Fatima has advocated for immigrant rights, equality, and mental health her whole life.
Fatima enjoys going to concerts, traveling, playing soccer, being adventurous, hanging with friends and family, listening to music and having a good time.
"Nothing can stop the power of a committed and determined people to make a difference in our society. Why? Because human beings are the most dynamic link to the divine on this planet"