Dr. Sheila Soto chosen as facilitator for the ‘Leaders Across Borders’ binational leadership program

Dr. Sheila Soto, faculty member in the Zuckerman College of Public Health at the University of Arizona, was selected to guide her peers in the ‘Leaders Across Borders’ program that strengthens cross-border collaboration and civic engagement.

The Leaders Across Borders Program, a binational leadership initiative connecting students from border states in the United States and Mexico, proudly announces that one of its former participants, Sheila Soto, DrPH, MPH, has been selected to serve as a facilitator for a team within the program.

The University of Arizona and the Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, in collaboration with the Mexico Section of the US Mexico Border Health Commission, and Tecnologico de Monterrey in Nuevo Leon Mexico, are committed to developing globally minded leaders through academic excellence, research, and community engagement. The Leaders Across Borders was designed to foster cross-cultural collaboration, leadership development, and civic engagement among students from both sides of the border. Through workshops, team projects, and binational dialogue, the program equips participants with the skills necessary to address shared challenges and build stronger communities.

Dr. Soto first joined the program as a student in the Zuckerman College of Public Health, and even then she demonstrated exceptional leadership, initiative, and a strong commitment to fostering collaboration. 

Her new role as facilitator marks an important step in her leadership journey, from participant to mentor. In her new role, Soto will guide a team of students (public health professionals from both sides of the US Mexico border) as they develop community-based projects, encourage teamwork, and strengthen the cross-border dialogue that defines Leaders Across Borders.

Dr. Cecilia Rosales, professor emeritus in the Zuckerman College of Public Health, is co-director of the Leaders Across Borders program along with Dr. Gudelia Rangel, executive director of the Mexico Section of the US Mexico Border Health Commission and academic from El Colegio de la Frontera Norte. 

“This is a powerful example of the program’s mission in action,” said Dr. Rosales, “When former students return as facilitators, they bring invaluable perspective and inspire current participants to pursue their own leadership paths.” Dr. Sheila Soto expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating: “The program has been transformative in my own development as a leader. Now, as a facilitator, I am honored to support new participants as they discover their own potential.” 

Leaders Across Borders continues to expand its impact across border states, cultivating a cycle of leadership where today’s students become tomorrow’s mentors. For more information about the program, please contact: 

Cecilia Rosales, MD, MS
Professor Emeritus
Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health
University of Arizona
crosales@arizona.edu
(520) 891-2058