Ana Vargas
Ana V. is the Vice President of Human Resources at Bright Star Schools, where she has dedicated over 19 years to building strong organizational culture and supporting the growth of both staff and students. She began her career in human resources and management, gradually advancing through roles including Director and Senior Director of Human Resources, before assuming her current leadership position. Throughout her tenure, Ana has been instrumental in developing talent management programs, fostering employee engagement, and driving leadership development initiatives that align with the mission of Bright Star Schools.
Ana holds a B.A. in Sociology from California State University, Long Beach, and a Human Resource Management Certificate, equipping her with both the academic and practical foundation to excel in her field. Her bilingual skills in English and Spanish have allowed her to connect with diverse teams and communities, enhancing her impact as a leader in education.
Known for her expertise in employee relations and leadership development, Ana combines strategic vision with a hands-on approach to human resources. Her career is marked by a commitment to nurturing talent, creating inclusive workplaces, and implementing best practices that support both professional growth and student success in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area.
• California State University, Long Beach- B.A.
• Azusa Pacific University
• El Camino College- A.A.
• SHERM organization
• Hacking HR Org- strategic program
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to starting headhunting in college, matching students with the right career paths, and always providing the same high level of service I would for my own family. I’ve focused on strategy, prospecting, and leading my team, and I’m especially proud of growing our team from 30 to 550 members.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mentor, Christina Vogel, cofounder of Bright Star, who has guided my career and continually inspired me.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be curious—ask questions, observe others, and shadow mentors to learn as much as you can.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are being ethical in my work and making time for family, while also staying active through running, marathons, biking, and powerlifting.