Héctor Colón is a visionary servant leader who transforms organizations, turning around those that are failing and taking successful ones to new levels of effectiveness. He boldly challenges the status quo and dares to move into uncharted territory—with stunning success. He cares deeply about the clients and customers, as well as employees, and demonstrates that financial and operational goals can co-exist with high employee satisfaction. He operates with conviction, stays committed to the big picture, and doesn’t flinch when confronted with difficult decisions.

He currently serves as President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services (LSS) of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. There, he led a dramatic turnaround of an agency which had lost $13M over a ten-year period, taking the bold and nearly-unheard-of step in the nonprofit world of shedding $14M in unprofitable programs. By channeling money and efforts into productive areas, he strategically grew the organization by over $20M in just five years, while doubling the investable endowment from $12M to over $24M. At the same time, staff morale vastly improved, as demonstrated by LSS becoming a Workplace of Choice three years in a row through the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For. Surveys also showed client approval and outcome ratings over 93%.

He also turned around the LSS board, revitalizing it with 85% new members and high expectations, including top-level diverse talent that has positioned the organization for better governance, oversight, and financial viability. This included a report card that holds board members accountable for attendance, committee participation, event participation, and give and get fundraising requirements. Currently, Héctor serves on the following committees: USA Boxing – Vice President, Executive, Strategy, and Compensation; Nicolet National Bank– Asset & Liability, Directors Loan; M 3 Insurance – Audit and Governance; University of Wisconsin System– Audit, Education, Diversity Awards (chair) and Education Communications Board.

Héctor was a champion amateur boxer. After winning seven national titles and being on the verge of a trip to the Olympics, he left boxing and potential riches to serve the community. This service has included prominent positions in the administrations of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, Governor James Doyle and County Executive Chris Abele, before joining Lutheran Social Services.  He is an advocate for the advancement of Latino professionals, and the author of the book, “My Journey: From Boxing Ring to Board Room:  5 Essential Virtues for Life and Leadership.”

Héctor received his Bachelor’s (Cum Laude) and Master’s Degrees in Occupational Therapy from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.