Southwest Airlines Community

Southwest Airlines has been named one of the Best Companies for Diversity in 2012 by Hispanic Business Magazine, an annual list determined by more than 32 variables that measure the Company's commitment to Hispanic hiring, promotion, marketing, philanthropy, and supplier diversity.  This is the fifth year we have been included in the list.  Top companies on this year's list went well beyond workforce diversity initiatives and implemented strategies to reach more Hispanic consumers and increase their procurements with minority- and Hispanic-owned suppliers.  To see a complete list, visit: http://alturl.com/k4afv.  Congrats, SWA!  ... View more

Southwest Airlines sponsored the student project workshop at the annual conference of the National Association of Black Journalists a few weeks ago.  We provided travel to 30 deserving students to actively participate in a real newsroom during the event, and to work alongside the best journalists in the country.  The students were so happy about the experience that they wrote a few thank you notes.  Lance Dixon Morehouse College NABJ Member Flying to New Orleans on Southwest was my first experience with the airline and I loved it. The flight attendants were courteous and the rides from Ft. Lauderdale to New Orleans and back were smooth and passed by quickly. I traveled to New Orleans for the National Association of Black Journalists convention and while there I participated in a student multimedia project. The project, and the convention as a whole, gave me lifelong memories, created valuable relationships and gave me treasured writing experience. None of that would have been possible without Southwest Airlines (and I wouldn’t have saved as much on checked bags either!) and I will certainly choose them for my next travel experience. Monica Guerra San Francisco State University NABJ Member I wanted to be a news producer and I would do anything to get experience in my field. Entering my senior year at San Francisco State University, I definitely craved more experience and connections with those in my field. Fortunately, I heard about the NABJ (National Association of Black Journalists) convention, where there would be about 2,000 members in the news, journalism and blogging field along with a student apprenticeship program where we would have hands on experience in producing news. Perfect! This was my chance! I applied, and not only did I get in, but I also was able to have my registration into the convention and my stay covered. But how was I going to get there? I was young, broke, and filled with dreams. Between side jobs here and there, paying my living expenses, and saving to pay for the approximate $200 for textbooks for the next school semester, not much is left over. I was ecstatic when I found out Southwest was covering my flight! Finally, nothing was standing in my way. I could get my foot into the door, and who knows what will come out of this journey? Tony Evans Clark Atlanta University NABJ Member Having the opportunity to fly on Southwest Airlines in route to the National Association of Black Journalists convention in New Orleans, Louisiana was indeed a priceless experience.  This was the first time I had the luxury of flying with the airline and I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the company's service and hospitality.  Flying with Southwest Airlines was essential to me being able to meet journalism and media professionals at the convention in an effort to make life-long professional and personal contacts.  Since I live and work in Raleigh, North Carolina, the only convenient and hassle free way for me to have arrived to the convention on time would have been through flying on Southwest Airlines.  It really goes to show that the company cares deeply about supporting minorities and organizations that are busy working to impact change in the United States and around the world.   I would also like to add that my favorite parts of the convention were having the chance to work on the Student Multimedia Projects.  Under the leadership of the best and brightest media professionals, I learned so much about news-gathering.  Denise James, Anthony Wilson, Janell Lewis and Darryl Huger gave me and several other Television mentees so much knowledge and insight that I am still trying to soak in from the week of training.  There were many challenges that I encountered daily, but with the leadership of the mentors, I'm sure to always remember to fight challenging stories head-on and to not ever back out of a difficult situation.  The convention also provided an opportunity for me to meet with News Directors, Executive Producers and other reporters so that I could learn of their thoughts about the current state of news industry.  After many conversations, I was told that news is becoming more cost-efficient and less people are working at stations because of the "one man band" concept of reporters shooting, editing and writing their own stories.  Media professionals say it's a cheap and cost-cutting way to survive in an industry where a number of people are getting their news from other sources besides television.  Southwest Airlines is owed an unlimited amount of gratitude and appreciation I believe I would never be able to repay.  I had the opportunity to learn how to report in a fast-paced news environment with aspiring news reporters just like me.  I am truly thankful for the opportunity to fly Southwest Airlines to work with, and meet with such helpful, and wisdom-filled professionals.  Kelcie McCrae North Carolina A&T State University NABJ Member When I found out the Southwest Airlines was the airline carrier for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Student Multimedia Projects I was more than excited. As a frequent flier I can honestly say that I love flying this airline for numerous reasons. Not only do they have a friendly staff and comfortable seating, my bags fly free, who doesn't love that? As a self-proclaimed 'over packer' it was necessary that I checked my bags for this convention, mainly for my need to change my wardrobe. By flying Southwest I was able to bypass pesky bag fees! For that and a wonderful ride I want to say thank you Southwest for yet another enjoyable experience. Justin Madden Grambling State University NABJ Member This year's NABJ Convention was one the most successful. Hundreds of sponsors and members flooded the city of New Orleans to make NABJ 2012 an unbelievable experience. But, there was one sponsor who reigns supreme than others: Southwest Airlines. Southwest Airlines donated over 30 travel vouchers for me and my peers to be a part of the NABJ Student Multimedia Project. As a first time attendee to a NABJ convention and student project, it's great to know that others are invested into your education just as much as you are Being a part of the Student Multimedia Project gave me real newsroom experience: deadline writing, researching, interviews and going after the main idea, the "meat and potatoes" of a story. It also enhanced my understanding of the AP stylebook. But, one must realize that this would not have been an exceptional experience without the help of Southwest Airlines, and for that I am forever grateful. Derrick Q. Lewis Temple University NABJ Member Thanks to Southwest Airlines I was able to attend the NABJ convention in New Orleans. As always, Southwest made sure my safety was their #1 priority. The staff effortlessly made accommodations for my flight from Philadelphia to New Orleans and provided great customer service on my flight back home. Thanks Southwest.  Jeannette Reyes Kent State University NABJ Member My name is Jeannette Reyes and I just graduated from Kent State University. I was excited and looking forward to attending the NABJ convention. It was a networking opportunity and learning experience that I did not want to miss. However, not only was I a recent graduate but I had just gotten a potential offer to Little Rock and needed to make sure that I had the funds for the move. I knew that I could not afford a round trip plane ticket to New Orleans. But it was difficult to turn down the opportunity because I had my hotel and registration paid for. The convention was quickly approaching and I was trying to work something out. I was told a couple of weeks before going to New Orleans that my plane fare would be covered by Southwest Airlines. I was elated because that was the last thing I needed. The service was amazing. I changed my return flight a couple of times last minute and I was very impressed with the quality of the customer service provided by the agent I spoke to over the phone. Southwest not only made my trip to NABJ possible but they made it a pleasant one.  ... View more

Beautiful Mexico, Mexico of our hearts!  We are excited to announce several new AirTran international routes to Mexico.  Starting today, May 24, AirTran began flying nonstop to Mexico City and Cancun from San Antonio, and tomorrow, AirTran will begin nonstop service from Austin to Cancun. These new flights are part of the international expansion of AirTran, which includes new service from Denver to Cancun which began in April, and new service from Orange County to Cabo San Lucas/San Jose Del Cabo and Mexico City which begins on June 3. AirTran has served San Antonio for almost four years, and we love this city.  We are excited to offer San Antonians nonstop service to Cancun and Mexico City, as we’ve heard from many Customers that these destinations are just what San Antonio wants. These new routes reaffirm the commitment of Southwest, as we spread our wings in the international market via our subsidiary, AirTran.  It is our goal to increase service to the destinations that our Customers want to fly—and, with summer here, what better place to relax than Mexico?!  Additionally, AirTran began service today from FLL to San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU) with two daily nonstop flights. ... View more

Did you know that Southwest has a station where Customers check-in in one city and depart from another?  Yep, Customers in our Newark International Airport check in at our ticket counter in Elizabeth and depart from Newark, and we celebrated with them our first year of service.  Last year, on March 27, we started our service into the New Jersey/New York area through Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) with eight daily departures to/from St. Louis, Baltimore/Washington International, and Chicago Midway.   “We waited many years to provide service into the New Jersey area and we finally landed at Newark International last year.  We couldn’t be more excited to provide the Newark folks our low fares, legendary Customer Service, and convenient flight schedule,” said Southwest Airlines Newark Station Leader Chris Rupprecht.   “We are proud of our performance in this market and of our dedicated Employees who every day bring their best to serve our Customers.” Southwest Airlines celebrated this anniversary at Newark Liberty International with a special fare sale starting at $69 one-way to Baltimore/Washington International.  At the station, we had a day-long celebration at our gates A14 and A15 in Newark’s main terminal. Our gates and ticket counter were decorated with balloons, and we served breakfast to our Employees and Customers to show our appreciation for a successful year. Also, to commemorate the first anniversary, Southwest Employees in Newark will be volunteering at the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. Happy Anniversary, Newark! ... View more

Not only is Southwest the best airline in the world, but we also fly the most beautiful people, too.  Southwest Airlines has partnered with Univision Television as the official airline of the “Nuestra Belleza Latina” beauty contest in Dallas.  The Dallas contestants will fly across the country to compete face-to-face with the participants from Phoenix, Chicago, Houston, and Miami.  The winner of the pageant will receive an exclusive Univision Network contract and $250,000 in cash and prizes. Our Dallas contestants walked the runway (or I should say, "the lobby") of Dallas Love Field to their flight last week to start their journey.  As they walked through the airport, many of our Customers were smitten by these young ladies.  Let’s take a look.  ... View more

Windows and Southwest Airlines are back this season to make our Customers’ travel experience jollier with the Picture Perfect Holiday. Starting December 13, Windows and Southwest Airlines will offer free holiday photos to Customers and Employees at 21 airports nationwide. In addition, the two companies will jointly host a holiday sweepstakes for a daily chance to win a Windows 7-based PC or the grand prize of a year of travel on Southwest Airlines – Employees are not eligible. Other holiday offers and incentives also will be available. Our Customers can stop by one of the photo kiosks set up at one of our Southwest gates in participating airports and take their free photo with Santa or in front of a holiday-themed backdrop. Once the photos are taken, a Windows representative will guide you through an online experience to demonstrate how to edit, share, and store their photos with ease, using Windows Live photo-editing tools. Families will be able to print a copy of their photo on site at the airport via state-of-the-art Epson printers, or they can visit http://www.freeholidayphotos.com to retrieve and share their photos online. The Picture Perfect Holiday airport kiosks will be available in the following cities: Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Nashville, Milwaukee, New Orleans, Oakland, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose, St. Louis, Seattle, Tampa, and San Antonio. In addition, the program has expanded this year and, starting November 18, it will include three malls--Westfield San Francisco Centre, Westfield Century City in Los Angeles, and The Shops at North Bridge in Chicago--to provide more Customers the chance to get their photos taken and share them quickly and easily. More information on the sweepstakes and the free photo experience is available at www.southwest.com/freeholidayphotos. ... View more

  Hispanic Heritage Month came to a close last week and the San Antonio CS&S Team celebrated the occasion with a salsa contest. For inquiring minds, I'm talking about the dip, not the type of dance!  Over 40 Employees from the Center participated and dressed up for the occasion.  Pretty safe to say, they all had "sabor" (or "flavor," in English).     Celebrity chefs like Diana Barrios were among the judges in this fiery competition, and the proceeds of this event were donated to Employees in need.  With this event, Southwest concludes its Hispanic Heritage Month celebration that was filled with music and food.   To see our Employees singing "Cielito Lindo" and celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, visit: http://www.youtube.com/user/SWASingAlong ... View more

Come see how we celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month.  It's not too late for you to join in on the fun! Cantando conmigo.     ... View more

How are you celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month? Southwest Airlines found a unique way to celebrate it with Customers and Employees by inviting everyone to come together today and sing “Cielito Lindo” (Lovely Sky) a la Southwest Airlines’ style. Today, in specific markets, Southwest Employees led passengers onboard planes, at airport gates, and at airport ticket counters to sing along to “Cielito Lindo.” To be ready for the occasion, our Employees have been rehearsing “Cielito Lindo” for the last couple of weeks. You can have a sneak peek of rehearsals by clicking on the link below:    http://www.youtube.com/user/SWASingAlong If you did not fly today, you can still be part of the celebration. Send us your video singing “Cielito Lindo” or any other song that celebrates your Hispanic heritage to swasingalong@gmail.com We will be posting our sing along videos captured at our stations, in our offices, and on our flights throughout the month, so stay tuned, you might see yourself singing! “Celebremos tu Herencia” Cielito Lindo a la Southwest Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores Porque cantando se alegran, Cielito lindo, los corazones. Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y celebra Demuestra el orgullo hispano Cantando con Southwest Airlines. Ay, ay, ay, ay canta y celebra Demuestra el orgullo hispano Cantando con tora tu fuerza.   ... View more

What's happening on Friday, September 16th? Keep your eyes on Southwest's social channels, and you'll find out... ... View more

Southwest is known for leading the aviation industry, for its Customer Service and for its amazing workforce.  But, did you know that we are also known to be the best in the Communication industry?  Our very own, Ginger Hardage, Senior Vice President of Culture and Communication, was recently selected by PR Week as one of the top 50 Leaders in the 2011 Power List: Industry Elite.  This list is comprised by Fortune 500 companies with outstanding communication efforts like Wal-Mart, Apple, Johnson and Johnson, and Ford Motor Company, among others.  Ginger was featured for directing how the Southwest story was told amidst the challenges our airlines has faced in the last year. Ginger is a veteran communicator with more than 30 years of experience and was also selected as one of the most powerful and influential women in Texas last year.   I asked some of our Employees to describe Ginger with only one word and here are some of the words I got: Genuine “No matter how the day looks, or what the situation is, Ginger will always be herself.  What you see is what you get.”  Calm “Her calm demeanor provides us the serenity we need when times are challenging.” Resourceful “Without asking her, she helped us with a situation.  She knew who to call, she knew we needed help.” Thank you, Ginger, for leading the way in an ever-changing environment, where your communication expertise and strategic thinking keeps us ahead in the game.  Cheers! ... View more

I want it all: the city, the lights, the clothes, the people, the food, and the nightlife. And now, it’s easier than ever.  Beginning Sunday, June 5, Southwest will offer more service to Newark Liberty International (EWR) in New Jersey, with three daily nonstops between EWR and  Baltimore/Washington, three daily nonstops between EWR and Denver, two daily nonstops between EWR and Houston Hobby, and two daily nonstops between EWR and Phoenix Sky Harbor.  These new flights join Southwest’s existing service to Chicago Midway (5 daily nonstop flights) and St. Louis (2 daily nonstops). With this addition, Southwest will provide our Customers nearly 50 daily flights to and from the greater New York area from three great airports—Long Island MacArthur, LaGuardia and Newark. Our Customers are now ever more free to move about the Big Apple.  To celebrate this new service, anyone who visits the Southwest Porch at Bryant Park this Sunday, June 5, and mentions the word “Newark” to their server, will receive a fabulous wichcraft cookie platter courtesy of Southwest Airlines.  The Southwest Porch is located in the Southwest corner of Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan.  ... View more

For the second year in a row, Southwest Airlines was named the official airline of the National Hispanic Public Relations Conference. This premier conference gathered more than 500 communication and marketing professionals in Los Angeles to discuss trends, technology, and the fast pace of today’s information. As Hispanics solidify their standing as one of the nation’s largest groups-reported by the 2010 US Census-the demand for cultural relevant content is growing.  Over the span of three days, this highly regarded conference hosted dozens of Hispanic PR training workshops, interactive VIP events for brands with bloggers, industry leading keynote speakers—including Rosanna M. Fiske, first Latina Chair and CEO of the Public Relations Society of America—and many other activities all focused on giving participants unprecedented opportunities for networking and professional development.     Actor and director, James Edward Olmos with Rosanna M. Fiske (both with SWA bags!) From English to Spanish to Spanglish, the world is changing and so is the way we communicate.  Southwest is proud to sponsor events that promote conversations and action. As a low-cost carrier and Leader in the industry we must continue to listen to what our Customers are saying, even if it’s a different language.  ¿De acuerdo?  Yo también. ... View more

Every day working here at Southwest Airlines, I hear the concept of Leading by Example.  The concept is applied to everything from our work, to our Internal and External Customer Service, to our personal lives.  Leading by example is much more than a concept; it is a way of living at Southwest. I’ve been a devoted follower of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s life and how he led by example.  His life was filled with great achievements, and I'd like to share a few things I’ve learned by following his life: Education is first:  “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically.  Intelligence plus character--that is the goal of true education.”  As a young boy, Dr. King knew he saw the world differently, and understood the power of education.  He pursued a higher education in a time when opportunities where not abundant. He had the charisma, he had the intelligence, but education was the key to the world.  Your time is now:  “We are now faced with the fact, my friends, that tomorrow is today.” At the age of 35, Martin Luther King, Jr., was the youngest man to have received the Nobel Peace Prize.  He did not wait for the right moment; he seized the opportunity and defied all established rules.  It’s never over:  “We have come a long, long way, but we still have a long, long way to go.” Although Dr. King became a Pastor at the tender age of 25 and had left our world at 39, he left a legacy that opened the path to transformation in today’s civil rights.  The journey is not over. Believe in Love:  “I am convinced that love is the most durable power in the world.” In the midst of the worst time of his life, he still loved the cause.  Martin Luther King never gave up and his upmost inspiration was Divine Love. Serve:  “Not everybody can be famous. But everybody can be great, because greatness is determined by service.”  With a Servant’s Heart, Dr. King turned around a Nation and sacrificed his personal wellbeing to make a better world. Today we celebrate his life, his achievements and best of all, the freedoms we enjoy from the sacrifices Dr. King and many others made to open the land of opportunities to all of us.  In my opinion, his greatest achievement was to bring together people from all walks of life in one belief, that we all are equals.  Celebrate today his life and his memory and ask yourself life’s most urgent question: what are you doing for others?       ... View more

Southwest Airlines is celebrating its new International Connect Service with airline partner Volaris with an exciting promotion.  For TODAY only, our Customers can sip Corona on the house.  You read it correctly--Southwest Airlines is providing free Coronas on all its flights nationwide.  This promotion will only last one day and is available while supplies last.  And the celebration doesn’t stop there.  Customers flying Southwest through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) should visit Gate 4B where Mariachis Estrella will perform traditional “Rancheras” from 1:00 to 3:00 pm PST.  Southwest Airlines announced last month its new Mexican connecting service that allows Customers to book international flights by connecting with Volaris, Mexico’s second-largest airline. Customers can book service from 20 Southwest cities to four Volaris Mexican destinations (Guadalajara, Morelia, Toluca/Mexico City, and Zacatecas.)  The new service will connect through Los Angeles International Airport, Oakland International Airport, and San Jose International Airport and will create over 40 roundtrip flight itineraries. Volaris has also commenced new daily service from Chicago Midway to Guadalajara, Mexico this week and Southwest plans to make this flight available on southwest.com by December 23.  Additionally, connecting service from many of our northeast airports will have connecting service to Guadalajara sometime in the first quarter of 2011.  Stay tuned! . ... View more

Last Tuesday, October 12th, Southwest Airlines celebrated Hispanic Heritage month in beautiful Bryant Park, New York City.  We partnered with The Pregones Theater Company to give us a glimpse of the poetry of Sandra Maria Esteves, one of the founders of the Nuyorican poetry movement through the interpretation of "Until We Win" with music and dance. The event also featured guest speaker Dr. Norma Barquet, CEO of America SCORES. Dr. Barquet spoke on what it means to be Hispanic in the United States. Southwest Airlines is proud of its diverse workforce and continues to celebrate it with its Employees.  Southwest Airlines was selected by Hispanic Business magazine as one of the Top 60 Elite companies for Diversity.  It was a night of Cultura, Arte y Amistad that we all enjoyed.  Celebremos tu Herencia.    ... View more

I am a mother, I’m wife, and a daughter, but I am also an immigrant.  I speak with an accent and sometimes get my words confused as I am constantly translating in my mind.  Never in my life would I have imagined leaving my dear Island of Puerto Rico to come to the States to work.  I was part of the Next Generation of new young professionals leading in the government and private sector with many opportunities and a great life.  But life happens, so does a deep economic depression, and Puerto Rico was not exempt from it.  Now I’m part of the “Nueva Ola” or New Wave of professionals who decided to move away from home to survive and to provide a better future for their families. I am not the first one, or the last one to move to the United States to find an opportunity.  Whether your parents, grandparents or ancestors came in from different parts of the world, we have different colors in our blood, but we are all the same-we all bleed red.   Today we start celebrating the strength and hard work of Hispanic Americans, whose zeal for family and country has helped shape society.  We celebrate not only diversity, but heritage, integrity, and honor. I am blessed; today I woke up as an Employee of one of the best Companies for Diversity according to Hispanic Business magazine and the best Company in the world--at least for me because Southwest is Home away from Home.  Celebrate today your heritage, the struggles and the triumphs of those who came to this great land before you, and I encourage you to embrace how the world has changed. ¡Celebra tu Herencia!   ... View more

Lánzate: the bridge to success Today we announced the winners of our Lánzate Travel Awards to deserving Hispanic students to help them continue their higher education.  These students are selected with the help of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and a group of judges, comprised of college professors and professionals from around the country.  For some of these students, this award is the bridge that helps them keep their family involved in their success.  But don’t take my word for it, let’s hear it directly from a few of our winners: Dianne Dimas As a second time recipient of the Southwest Lánzate Travel Award, I have already seen the role it has played in helping me achieve success. This award has provided economic support in the form of fully covered roundtrips to and from college. Putting me at the door step of the University of Michigan, this program has been a motivation to continue pursuing my dreams as I have managed to reach the institution of my choice to become an electrical engineer. This program has also been a bridge between my life back home and reaching my goals. Returning for the holidays meant seeing my family and having their presence and support physically. That was fundamental my first year in college as I was on my own for the first time. I think that this program offers not only a method of transportation, but also the ability to see those that have always supported you and matter most. Adriana Campos Although the decision to attend Stanford University was my own, my undergraduate career has been a family affair. From the very beginning I understood the implications of my choice. Attending Stanford meant being away from my tight-knit Mexican family for almost four years. Furthermore, attending an out-of-state university meant financially burdening my working-class family. But as I near the end of my undergraduate career, I breathe a sigh of relief. The investment was worth it; pursuing a higher education has come with a financial and emotional price, but the gains for myself and for my family are immeasurable. The Southwest Lánzate Award has given my family and I the opportunity to celebrate our journey. Though I have been physically apart from my family for a majority of the past three years, their long-distance love and support are the reasons why I am graduating. Consequently, it only makes sense that my parents and my brother join me next year as I proudly walk the stage. I feel fortunate that Southwest has given my family and I an opportunity that we otherwise would not have had—to close this chapter so that together we can begin the next one.    Cindy Camacho My parents have never been able to fully participate in my education.  They have always been my source of strength, but their ability to be part of my education has always been limited by linguistic and financial barriers.  It is difficult for me to live and study in a place my parents have never even seen. Though I can describe my college experience to them, there is always a piece missing. Enabling my parents to attend my graduation ceremony will allow them to fully become a part of my education, to share with me my successes of the past four years.  The Southwest Airlines Education Travel Program enables me, for the first time, to truly share with my parents my college experience and to show them what their strength and support has allowed me to do. The judges. With more than 3,000 applicants in the last six years, the Lánzate program is a proven successful educational program that serves underprivileged Hispanic students, providing complimentary travel for them and their families to maximize their potential and create opportunities for growth.  To see the complete list of winners, visit: www.swamedia.com. ... View more

In the heart of Texas, 400 communication and marketing professionals gathered last week to discuss best practices in Hispanic communications.  The city: Dallas, The official airline: Southwest Airlines.  With more than 25 conferences on Hispanic social media, diversity, and professional growth, this conference became the Mecca of interchanging ideas and a forum to discuss the new trends in this market. Representatives from McDonalds, State Farm, Ford, and United HealthCare, among many others, shared their experiences on the new emerging Hispanic audiences like the younger millennials and their affair with smart phones or the Spanglish trend to create relevant messages in bilingual online sites. As the leading low cost airline and the best Customer Service provider in the industry, Southwest Airlines believes in communicating with its Customers in the most effective and “out of the box” way.  This conference helped me, as a Public Relations Specialist to understand the new trends of the Hispanic market and will help us create innovative communication tools.  We also wanted to showcase Dallas as a destination suited for grand events. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event, and I’m crossing my fingers that it will be in Chicago!   Left to Right: Rosa Alonso, Founder/CEO, MyLatinoVoice.com, Aymee Zubizarreta, Manager of Public Relations, State Farm, Manny Ruiz, Conference Organizer and Co-Publisher Hispanic PR Blog, Octavio Navarro, Media Relations Manager, Ford Motor Company, and me   ... View more

I often hear that being a mom is the greatest achievement a woman can have.  I agree on the achievement part, but not on the greatest part.  The greatest achievement a woman can have--in my opinion--is not just being a mom, but seeing her kids thrive for themselves, while her heart is pounding with fear and excitement.  Moms are great at faking smiles when they are preoccupied, keeping their sweet tone when they are about to cry, and accepting goodbyes when it’s time to grow up.  But I never realized all of this until I had my own kids.  Every day when I hear them laugh, talk, make jokes, or just finish their homework, my heart accelerates with joy and excitement—I realize this great achievement every day I’m with them.   I make an effort to spend as much time with them as possible, as I am aware that they are growing up so fast.  My 13-year-old is already in middle school, part of the dance team, and a text message champion.  The seven-year-old is a Cub Scout, and his life revolves around dirt, insects, and basketball.  Life is perfect! To all the moms out there—specially the working mom that pushes herself to provide a better future to her kids—you have my utmost respect and admiration, as you are the one building our homes, constructing a better nation, and dreaming for the future—not just for your kids, but for all of us.   ... View more

Congratulations to Ginger Hardage, our Senior Vice President of Culture and Communications, for being recognized as one of Texas’ Most Powerful and Influential Women.  For more than 20 years, those of us in Communications have known Ginger is powerful and influential, but we also celebrate her kind heart, Leadership, and a smile as big as her native state, Texas.  I asked Ginger to share her thoughts about this great honor, and here's what she had to say: I once read, “The world's most powerful women aren't waiting for permission to take their careers to the next level; they're doing it for themselves. And they're seeking much more than just a job, they are seeking an adventure.” After 20 years of service to the People and the causes of Southwest, I can proudly and clearly tell you, this adventure remains the most challenging, yet rewarding, of my professional life. I joined Southwest Airlines with a certainty that my work—and the work of all women here—would not be evaluated by gender but, rather, by our passions for Service and doing the right thing. And I was right.  Southwest Airlines gives all of us the chance to unite the passions of our hearts and minds, with an extraordinary commitment for a better workplace, and we all share in the endless rewards. A walk through any of our Stations or office spaces gives me an everyday reminder of how women are empowered here at Southwest:  Ramp Agents, Customer Service Agents, Directors, and Vice Presidents, just to mention a few, bring their best forward and are effective agents of change. I am proud to represent Southwest Airlines with this recognition as one of Texas' Most Powerful and Influential Women. I’m honored to represent all women in our Southwest Family who work every day to deliver the best Customer Service in the industry.  I am humbled to be a part of an Executive group (that includes 11 female Vice Presidents) who work as a Team to take the Company to the next level. Thank you, Colleen, (Colleen Barrett, our President Emeritus) for opening the doors for women—not only at Southwest—but in the airline industry.  You remain one of the most influential women of our time. ... View more

True “LUV” takes flight again as Southwest Airlines commemorated its 35th Anniversary of service to Valley International Airport in Harlingen, Texas, with a ceremony honoring love, commitment, and fun while hosting a Southwest-themed wedding and instant honeymoon for one lucky Valley couple. Rio Grande Valley natives Justin Lang and Rhonda Miller started their new life together as husband and wife in the airport atrium surrounded by family, friends, and hundreds of invited guests.    Carrying a bouquet of flowers, Southwest peanuts, and Southwest’s signature heart-shaped swizzle sticks, the bride and her beau walked down the aisle and onto one of Southwest’s LUV jets after their essay was selected from more than 300 contest entries submitted at www.southwest.com/luvinthevalley. Our Employees were also part of this great event.  To celebrate the LUV in the Valley, a group of volunteers spent part of the day Sharing the Spirit of LUV by providing Valentine’s Day cards, cookies, and decorations to the families of the local Ronald McDonald House.  The Employees were also treated to a great lunch, and four LUV couples renewed their vows and celebrated in the grand reception! Harlingen is special to Southwest Airlines. It was the first new city added to our three original cities of the Texas Triangle (Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio).  Service began on February 11, 1975, with four nonstop flights to Houston Hobby Airport.  Today, we operate 12 daily nonstop departures from Valley International Airport to three cities: Austin, Houston (Hobby), and San Antonio, with additional and connecting service to 49 cities. LUV is in the hearts of all of our Harlingen People and we celebrate with them 35 years of outstanding service.  Thank you HRL for making us Valley proud! Cheers! ¡Salud! For a video of the festivities, please click here.     ... View more

Southwest Airlines is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in many ways.  We designed a specialty package for our peanuts, created a special poster for our airports (designed by Dallas artist José Suaste), and will be closing this month of celebration with a special event in New York this Friday. Southwest is partnering with Latino Art Beat to create a special event at the Southwest Porch in Bryant Park in midtown Manhattan on Friday, October 9th. (See the attached invitation below.)  Latino Art Beat is a Chicago-based nonprofit arts organization that awards scholarships to high school students through its arts competition, which is held annually in May. Latino Art Beat's motto is "Celebramos la juventud, el Arte y la Cultura Hispana": We Celebrate Youth, Art and Hispanic Heritage and Culture. This year's theme is "What Hispanic Heritage and Culture Means to Me." The Southwest Porch will display the participants’ artwork, NYU students will read Spanish poetry, and a local middle school group will be dancing some salsa and tango for our guests.  If you are in the NYC area, please feel free to join us for this event.  Artist José Suaste's bio: With distinct and colorful visual imagery, José Suaste expresses themes of music, love, community and understanding in just about everything he does. Pulling from his Mexican-American upbringing in inner city Dallas, Suaste, as his friends and fans know him, has been creating bold themed art since childhood. Inspired by graffiti, skateboarding, and over all music, Jose’s work is familiar yet on the edge of what’s to come from pop culture. The unique blend of Mexican immigrant parents and being first generation American has created a striking style in his art, which ranges from graphic design to hand drawn paintings. All of his work has an overwhelming sense of being in the moment and in the scene. As a musician and front man for his band Joint Method, he has released three independent records. His music exudes culture mixing hip-hop, rock and reggae, which also resonate in his art. In 2008 José opened Fury Fellowship, a small design shop in Dallas focusing on entertainment/film design. The shop’s core philosophy is all about collaboration. Whatever is needed to complete a job/piece, José chooses from a roster of skilled artists to contribute. That is if he can’t do it all himself. Fury Fellowship offers anything from design, illustration, motion graphics, to advertising. Visit www.furyfellowship.com for more information. José graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelors Degree in Communication Design and a minor in Creative Writing. He currently lives in his native Dallas, with his wife Helen and daughter Sabrina. ... View more

The root of the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration is the “fiesta de la independencia” or the independence party for seven Latin American countries: El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Chile, and Guatemala.  Southwest Airlines is proud to acknowledge and honor diversity inside our walls and on our planes, and to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month we have selected Dallas-based artist, Jose Suaste, to create our celebration imagery for 2009.  (See pdf file link below for a copy of the poster.) His artwork captures the true meaning of this special month; it reflects our Company’s and Employees' personality: Fun-LUVing, vibrant, and definitely unique.  The words “tradición” (tradition) and “cultura” (culture) are embedded in the poster to reflect the importance of these elements in our daily operations.  These posters will be displayed all across our system.  Along with a print of the poster, we have included a postcard of José’s work in our SPIRIT inflight magazine. It’s the first time we’ve included something like this in our publication, and we hope our Customers will feel free to take one to share with family and friends. It’s just another way Southwest is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Our work with the Hispanic communities goes far beyond a poster or specialty peanuts (which we LUV!); we are the official airline of the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's annual convention this year in Denver; the official airline of the Latina Style Symposium in Washington DC; and have representation from our Corporate Community Affairs Team in more than 30 national Hispanic organizations dedicated to creating new opportunities within Hispanic communities. So, through art, culture, community work, and real commitment, Southwest Airlines “felicita” (congratulates) all of our Hispanic Employees, their families and our valued Customers who make our airline the best in the skies. Come together and “¡Celebremos tu herencia!”   ... View more

Celebrating my first year as a “blogger” today, I’m writing about the same event I covered in my first published piece, which was on the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).  Last year’s event was a very special moment; the primaries had just finished, and I had been to hear the most touching speech by Hillary Clinton as she accepted that her race for the presidency was over. That was so 2008; now the LULAC annual convention with more than 7,000 participants each year was celebrating its 80th year, and what better place to have the fiesta than “La Isla del Encanto” or the Island of Enchantment, Puerto Rico. If you still don’t know this (which I doubt!) Puerto Rico is the place I call home. Attending this event in San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital city, not only gave me a great perspective on the new developments with this organization, but gave me a sense of the Southwest Airlines brand outside the 50 states.  I have to sincerely say that I was impressed with all the people who asked me: "when is SWA flying to San Juan?" My answer:  “Believe me, I’m your best advocate.” And even though we don’t fly to San Juan, Southwest Airlines was there, supporting this great Hispanic organization.  This says a lot about a Company and its commitment to the Hispanic community. Southwest Airlines has been a sponsor, advocate and collaborator of LULAC for the past 15 years, and we actively participate as board members and give corporate assistance to more than 30 national Hispanic organizations like the National Council of La Raza, and The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, among many.  We have been just named the official airline of this year’s US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce annual convention in the great city of Denver. At Southwest Airlines, the Hispanic heritage is something that we celebrate throughout the year with a real commitment to our communities and to our Customers.  We congratulate LULAC for having the persistence and courage to stand by their beliefs for 80 years, and we exhort them to continue the great efforts to make a positive difference in our communities.   ... View more

Okay, picture this: Scene One:  Medium Shot--Office area, man in business suite:  You are walking back and forth in your office, and you can’t seem to understand why that business deal is not closed yet.  You call your client, he’s not in, he’s at the business convention, ugh!!  Sr. Destino appears and asks you:  “What are you waiting for?  Grab your bag and close that deal!” Scene Two:  American Shot--Golf Course, two men very, very happy:  The deal is closed and you just shot a hole in one in front of your new client. Life is great, Thanks to Sr. Destino. Then, who is Sr. Destino?  Sr. Destino is Southwest Airlines, the ultimate travel companion who will not let you miss the great things in life, like the important business deal or your family having a great time vacationing.  Southwest Airlines provides dependable and affordable, worry-free travel to give everyone the freedom to do as they want, even in challenging times. This is the concept behind Sr. Destino, the new Spanish summer ad campaign running on Univision, Telemundo, Azteca, Galavision, CNN Español, ESPN Sports, national Hispanic radio stations, and internet portals like Univision.com and YouTube. The concept and ad production was created by Dieste, the Dallas based Hispanic ad agency.  Dieste, named best multicultural agency by AdAge, has been Southwest’s Hispanic agency for more than ten years. ... View more

Did you know?   Of the 23 million nonfarm businesses in the US in 2008, women owned more than six million of them. These firms generated more than $940 billion in revenues, employed more than seven million workers, and had more than $173 billion in payroll. The 2007 Small Business Administration study, Minorities in Business: A demographic review of Minority Business Ownership, well establishes that by 2010, four out of ten businesses will be minority owned. So what do those numbers mean for Southwest Airlines?  It means a wider variety of suppliers, ideas, and opportunities for our Company.    That’s why for more than 20 years, Southwest Airlines has promoted and opened its doors to local minority-owned businesses through our Supplier Diversity program. And to celebrate our program, Southwest Airlines was a proud sponsor of the DFW Minority Business Development Council’s 2009 ACCESS tradeshow: Your Business, Your Vision, Your Future, Your Success at the Arlington Convention Center, where more than 800 businesses gathered together to meet, greet, and close deals with the local big corporations. Southwest Airlines has participated for many years at ACCESS as a corporate sponsor, and opening the doors to minority-owned businesses like Zones, Inc.  Ask Christina Corley, President and COO, of this small but mighty company. “We met the Southwest Airlines executives at ACCESS 2006 and landed one of our best accounts.  We now provide network and software solutions to one of the biggest carriers in the world,” said Corley.  “We encourage this event to anyone who is serious about their business and wants to create partnerships with companies who support supplier diversity programs like Southwest Airlines.” Southwest values diversity and seeks to create an environment that encourages and supports diversity both in the workplace and within our supplier base. Our Supplier Diversity Program was designed to enable Southwest to extend opportunities to qualified Small, Disadvantaged, HUBZone, Minority, Woman, Veteran, Service Disabled Veteran, and GLBT-Owned Businesses (Diverse Suppliers). It is the goal of this program to assist Diverse Suppliers in their development as competitive suppliers of products and services. Click here for more info on our Supplier Diversity.     ... View more

Olga attended the same event about which Steve Heaser talks in his Red Belly Radio podcast, "My American Idol Experience Experience."       I do and wish many others will after this.  Recently, I attended Disney’s American Idol media extravaganza in Orlando representing Southwest Airlines doing my famous interviews in Español.  Looking for placement opportunities, I gazed around the event and saw the opportunity to secretly “place” a Southwest OnBoarding Duck Derby Duck everywhere.  And when I mean everywhere, I mean food, interviews, even as a business card holder.   After a while, the journalists and event participants started to ask for the ducks, they all wanted a picture with it or just one for their offices.  On the last day of the event, the ducks made it to "Hollywood "  by making appearances with Idol participants like Brooke White, season five winner Taylor Hicks, and the fabulous, but not so famous, Sanjaya.           So, dig the Duck!  Our Employeees can contact the OnBoarding Department and buy one or buy ten.  Sponsor a New Hire and see where the duck takes you in 2009!   ... View more

Having a task list as long as the Potomac River , I landed in our nation’s capital to attend the LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens) convention.  Little did I know of how the events to come would change not only my agenda but my perspective in politics, and life overall.    With an estimated 5,000 Latinos attending and a range of Speakers like Barack Obama and John McCain, this event is considered a top priority for leaders of all denominations, colors and flavors.  It was amazing! Just walking into the hotel lobby and hearing political arguments in the different dialects of Spanish, Portuguese and even what we Latinos call “Spanglish,” made me feel right at home. The next few days were exhilarating; this was the NASCAR of politics. Representatives from all across the nation discussing community affairs, labor rights, immigration, and education. So much information, so little time.   But the best was still to come.  I was still focused on my meetings and attending media seminars, when I glanced over the event program and saw the key speaker for dinner.  It was Hillary Rodham Clinton, and I had to be there.  Not because of a party affiliation, but for simply being a woman.  A woman that decided to be a participant not a mere spectator (even if I don’t agree with everything she says!). Growing up with a “single-working mom” made me aware at a very early age the struggles that women face when trying to get ahead. That made this dinner so attractive to me, to see her face to face, to see the survivor in her, and to be inspired.  Then, I came, I saw, and I conquered one of the most emotional events in my life.        When Hillary came out, it was not the presidential candidate, it was not the strong, determined women I expected, I suddenly realized I was in front of a flesh and blood woman.  A 5 foot, 3 inch(?) middle-sized, blonde who talked about giving thanks and returning to the people what they give.  I saw somebody who was tired of fighting but was still there, I saw my mom. With a new conscience about sacrifice and action, I salute each Latino Leader that decided to become part of the solution.  I’m grateful to Southwest Airlines for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this historic moment; and I am forever in debt with mom; who knew there was a world out there and she prepared us for it, even if it meant been there fighting when she was tired. ... View more