Jacqueline Comunitaria Paniagua
Jacqueline Paniagua is a mission-driven nonprofit leader dedicated to advancing education, social equity, and sustainable community-based organizations. As Chief Operating Officer of Plaza Comunitaria Sinaloa, Inc., she leads organizational strategy, communications, partnerships, and financial oversight, working to strengthen infrastructure and expand access to educational opportunities for adult learners. Her leadership is grounded in building systems that are both mission-aligned and operationally strong.
Beyond her executive role, Jacqueline is deeply engaged in community leadership and service. She serves as a mentor with the Puente Program at Los Angeles Valley College and as a board member with Happy Pappy Foundation and RJC Organization. These roles keep her closely connected to community needs and inform her equity-centered approach to organizational growth, program development, and collaborative partnerships.
Raised in the San Fernando Valley, Jacqueline is a proud first-generation, non-traditional college graduate. She earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Anthropology and Latin American and Latino Studies with highest honors from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and continues graduate studies to further deepen her impact. Jacqueline thrives on building relationships with funders, partners, and stakeholders to create programs that uplift and empower the communities that shaped her.
• University of California, Santa Cruz
• Happy Pappy Foundation
• Rjc Foundation
• Los Angeles Valley College
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my ability to adapt, my willingness to continuously learn, and my natural inclination toward research and problem-solving. These strengths allow me to navigate complex challenges, ask the right questions, and develop thoughtful, effective solutions in dynamic environments.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering the industry to do it with intention. Be clear about your goals, stay aligned with your values, and make deliberate choices that support the path you want to build.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is instability. Constant shifts in priorities, funding, and external conditions require adaptability, clear decision-making, and resilience to continue moving forward and identifying opportunity within uncertainty.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are treating people with fairness and respect, building genuine connections, and communicating openly and honestly. I believe strong relationships and clear communication create trust, foster collaboration, and lead to meaningful, lasting impact.