Iliana Santillan

Executive Director at El Pueblo and La Fuerza NC

Iliana Santillan is a native of Mexico City and Michoacán. She has been organizing in North Carolina for over 20 years. She started her career as an educator in Sanford, NC, where she developed a passion for working with youth and elevating the voices of Latine folks throughout the state. Currently, she serves as the Executive Director of El Pueblo and La Fuerza NC. In her role, she seeks to empower rural communities, elevate Latine leadership, and increase civic engagement across the state. Iliana holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Meredith College and a Master’s Degree in Family Life and Youth Development from North Carolina State University.