Charli Villarreal: Leading with Passion
Charli Villarreal, a 2015 graduate of Hempstead High School, has been selected as the October Bobcat Alumni Trailblazer.
Villarreal's journey from the hallways of Hempstead High School to her current role as a talent acquisition specialist at Daikin is a testament to the power of the support she received from her teachers in Hempstead ISD. As she reflects on her past educational experiences, she acknowledges the role her teachers played in shaping her path to success.
"The structure my teachers provided and the support in Hempstead ISD gave me the tools I needed to navigate my future," Villarreal shared.
Her connection with Hempstead ISD extends beyond her own accomplishments; it's deeply rooted in her passion for giving back. During her time at Hempstead High, she was an active member of the color guard, a passion that continues today. In fact, for the past two years, she has been dedicated to volunteer coaching the high school color guard team, leading them to nationals last spring.
As a volunteer coach, Villarreal goes above and beyond to ensure the success of her students. Sacrificing her own time, she is there for every practice before and after school, at pep rallies, and on game days, whether at home or away. But for Villarreal, this is more than a commitment; it's a labor of love.
"I want to provide a space for students interested in color guard," Villarreal explained. "Being able to give back to my high school and be in a familiar environment is an added bonus."
Villarreal's work ethic, nurtured during her time in Hempstead, now shines brightly in her job at Daikin. She's quick to acknowledge her luck in having an employer who supports her volunteerism and her desire to uplift students in her own community. Her mother has also been one of her biggest supporters in all of her endeavors.
Villarreal wants Hempstead ISD students not to be afraid to go after what they want. Leading the color guard team was initially out of her comfort zone but she took a chance at the opportunity.
"You'll never regret the chances you never take."
Her dedication to coaching doesn't just stop at practices and performances. Her passion is fueled by the joy of witnessing her students be successful at competitions and the sense of achievement on their faces.
"Seeing their faces when they see how well they have done after a performance is my favorite part about coaching," Villarreal said. "Our success at nationals last year was the outcome of their hard work and practice. My goal is for them to go back to nationals again this year."
Villarreal's story is a powerful reminder of the impact a supportive community can have in the lives of students.
If you are a graduate or know a graduate of Hempstead High School and would like to nominate that individual for our monthly Alumni Spotlight, please fill out the Bobcat Trailblazer Form.