Catalina Diaz MHRM
Catalina Diaz is a fully bilingual educator and Human Resources professional with extensive experience across education, corporate HR, diplomatic services, IT consulting, and the commercial airline industry. She currently serves as a Fourth Grade Teacher and District Spanish GT Liaison at New Caney Independent School District, where she is recognized for her expertise in gifted and talented services, and student success initiatives. Catalina is dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments that empower students to achieve academic excellence. Throughout her career, Catalina has developed strong expertise in recruitment, onboarding, training and development, employee performance management, policy development, and compliance. She is known for her ability to build relationships, promote collaboration, and lead with empathy and integrity. Whether in the classroom or through HR consulting, she focuses on creating goal-oriented and supportive environments that encourage growth, engagement, and measurable outcomes. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Catalina is committed to build her knowledge that can transfer outside the classroom, attending conferences to build knowledge and strategies to help her students and herself to grow professionally. She participates in programs supporting children in need and initiatives promoting education and personal development. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership at Nova Southeastern University, Catalina demonstrates a continuous commitment to learning and leadership development. Her work and mentorship reflect her goal of inspiring students and colleagues alike, cultivating a culture of excellence, resilience, and lifelong curiosity.
• MHRM
• EDD
• Nova Southeastern University
• Keller school of Management
• Abraham Lincoln School
• Top 25 Gold Star Teacher of the Year Nominee
• Teacher of the Year
• District Elementary Tecaher of the Year
• SHRM
• KAPPA DELTA PI
• PHI KAPPA PHI
• SIGMA DELTA BETA
• Be an Angel
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong eagerness to learn, taking pride in everything I do, and maintaining a positive attitude even in challenging situations. I believe that curiosity, dedication, and resilience are key to growth both personally and professionally. Staying true to yourself and being unapologetically you, celebrating all cultures and differences as well as giving voice to all. Outside of work, I enjoy activities that spark creativity and focus, such as jigsaw puzzles, arts and crafts, dancing, and cooking. These hobbies allow me to unwind while continuing to nurture problem-solving skills and attention to detail, which I bring into my professional life as well.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to be unapologetically yourself, stay focused on your goals, know your passions, and commit to lifelong learning. I believe that continuously expanding my knowledge and skills not only strengthens my professional capabilities but also allows me to adapt and grow in an ever-changing work environment. Celebrating and advocating for those that have different perspectives to all, bringing experiences and lifelong memories to others.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to lead by example, be an attentive listener, and ensure your voice is heard, never let anybody dim your light. Building credibility through your actions, showing respect for others’ perspectives, and confidently sharing your insights are key to making a meaningful impact and advancing in your career. Celebrate and be a favorite to those that come from different backgrounds and cultures, everybody’s story is worth telling.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in education today is navigating school funding while ensuring equitable resources for all students. Remember where you come from and your roots, plant seeds and see them flourish. At the same time, there is a tremendous opportunity to stay ahead of the evolving changes in the education field, leveraging new strategies, technologies, and approaches to enhance learning outcomes and support student success. Being the voice and advocate to those that don’t think their story is worth telling.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are staying tru to my Colombian / Hungarian roots, work hard, and have a strong work ethic, striving to be a leader in my field, and serving as a positive mentor to my students. I am committed to guiding and inspiring those I work with while continually growing and leading by example. My message is my mission.
Locations
New Caney Independent School District
Humble, TX