EML Alumna Makes Washington Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 List for Public Service Career

Georgetown McDonough alumni Tatianna Torres (EML’13) recently was featured in the Washington Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list. Torres graduated from the Executive Master’s in Leadership (EML) program in 2013 and has forged a career in public service, embodying the mission of the EML program.

The Executive Master’s in Leadership program seeks to develop principled leaders who work to make decisions when confronted with complex problems for themselves, their organizations, and their communities. Since completing her 12-month comprehensive leadership journey, Torres has personified these leadership skills and dedication to community, as evidenced by her work. 

In Torres’ interview with the Washington Business Journal, she was asked what lesson has proven to be most valuable to her through the pandemic.

“Resilience. In times like this, you can’t allow hope to be lost. That is the story of my life, but this year, boy oh boy, have we learned a new meaning for resilience,” said Torres.

After a successful career in public service and politics, she worked in the private sector for three and a half years. However, when offered a new position under Mayor Muriel Bowser, she jumped at the opportunity to provide support during the pandemic and happily accepted. Since late March, she’s worked closely with the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development to offer solutions about how the community can emerge from the pandemic’s devastating effects. Managing the recently instituted district economy recovery team, Torres brings together local businesses, politicians, and members in Washington, D.C., to help cope with the crisis. 

While this position is admittedly overwhelming at times, Torres has demonstrated the fortitude and resilience that Georgetown McDonough seeks to instill in all of its graduates. In fact, since fleeing with her parents from Colombia when she was only five years old, she says that she has no problem taking on the pressure of this new role. 

“One thing my father told us at a very young age is you have to give back,” said Torres, as quoted in the Washington Business Journal. “I think this work has demonstrated that in a very vivid way.” 

Her dedication to public policy has also been inspired by her identity as a woman of color and as an immigrant. Speaking to the increasing dialogue on racial justice and equality, Torres voiced her unwavering support. 

“It is a fight that I will fight alongside my Black brothers and sisters for the rest of my life.”