Christian Patiño has a bachelor's degree in International Business and an MBA in Marketing from Southern Adventist University. He is currently enrolled in the Global Community Development MBA program. Christian brings with him a wealth of knowledge of the Chattanooga Latino community. He comes to La Paz from Southern Adventist University where he served as a Student Finance Counselor and Assistant Director of Billing & Collections. He also worked as a medical interpreter for Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department. Patiño was one of the original local Latino leaders honored at La Paz's first Latino Leadership Awards in 2012.
Mr. Patiño was born in California to Colombian parents and grew up in Mexico, United States, Colombia, and Curaçao. Being emerged in different cultures has allowed him to manage cross-cultural issues effectively and create a bridge to come to an understanding. "I am excited to be part of the La Paz team so that together we cultivate long lasting relationships with the community and develop programs that advocate, educate and include the Latino community of Chattanooga.
Patrick Miles returned to Chattanooga from living in the Dominican Republic. He and his family served in full-time, Christian ministry outreach to the Dominican and Haitian communities. Prior to living in the Dominican Republic, Mr. Miles served as the Assistant Director of The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Office of Alumni Affairs where he directed the office's communications and marketing efforts. He also worked at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga as the Metropolitan Teen Services Coordinator and Assistant Director of YMCA Camp Ocoee.
Mr. Miles is an alumnus of Indiana University where he holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in English. He is passionate about bringing together people of different cultures in order to see the community become stronger and more eclectic. As the Director of Community Engagement, he develops partnerships with key community organizations in order to help engage and include the Latino community of the area. Mr. Miles additionally serves as the communications manager for La Paz.
"Having lived overseas in Latin America, I know full well the challenges people face when adjusting to a new culture and learning the ins and outs of the local community. It takes time, patience, and assistance from locals willing to lend a helping hand. La Paz's mission helps to fulfill that need. To me, when we engage our cultural differences and strengthen others, our community is more beautiful, eclectic, and productive. "
"We are excited to welcome Christian and Patrick to the La Paz team, " said Stacy Johnson, Executive Director. "Their combined experience will provide significant value to our organization as we continue to grow. We have a strong team and we are all committed to the mission and future of La Paz Chattanooga ".