During Hispanic Heritage Month 2025, we are inspired by Latino leadership, achievements, legacies, and lived experiences from across the United States. From this inspiration grew the Rooted Leadership initiative of the Latina Today podcast series, with the invaluable support of the Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati.

In this Rooted Leadership interview, Lorena Mora-Mowry speaks with Commissioner Anita Lopez. Ms. Lopez, Esq., made history as the first woman in Lucas County, Ohio, to be elected Auditor and the first Latina female Lucas County Commissioner. She was sworn in as a Commissioner on January 8, 2024.

Commissioner Lopez, the youngest of seven children of migrant workers, was instilled with the value of hard work, as well as loyalty to God and country. She witnessed her family’s efforts to provide for themselves throughout her upbringing. When she was 14 years old, her father suffered a heart attack, rendering him unable to work. This situation was particularly challenging as he was the primary provider for the family, and profoundly shaped her public service career.

Lopez’s personal journey, including completing her law and undergraduate degree over a decade and seven years, respectively, highlights the complexities of achieving success. She worked alongside her parents, contributing to their household income, which influenced her decision to pursue a full-time college education. Despite the financial burden, she remained committed to her family’s well-being, even during her father’s disability application process. While the disability benefits were not substantial compared to his full-time earnings, Lopez’s determination remained unwavering.

She emphasizes that everyone’s path to success is unique, with its share of ups and downs. Maintaining focus and maintaining faith in oneself is essential. Lopez’s unwavering commitment to serving everyone equally, regardless of their socioeconomic status, led her to advocate for Latinos in government and make Ohio history.