(LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA) – SOWELA Technical Community College has promoted Heather Hidalgo to Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, a role that will support the College’s continued growth through community engagement, alumni relations and philanthropic development.
Hidalgo brings more than 25 years of experience in marketing, business development, event planning and community relations. Since joining SOWELA in 2025 as alumni coordinator, she has played a key role in strengthening alumni engagement and advancing institutional partnerships that support student success and workforce development.
Active in the Southwest Louisiana community, Hidalgo currently serves as Chamber Leadership Council Alumni Chair and is a former president of the Southwest Louisiana Arts and Humanities Council. She has also provided leadership for the LiveWell Women’s Network and Advisory Council and the CHRISTUS Ochsner Healthy Seniors.
Her previous professional experience includes serving as Director of Marketing and Business Development for Lake Area Adventures and Director of Marketing and Communications for CHRISTUS Ochsner, where she led strategic communications, outreach initiatives, and community-focused programs.
In her new role, Hidalgo will oversee community development, alumni relations and fundraising efforts for both SOWELA Technical Community College and the SOWELA Foundation, helping to expand resources and opportunities that enhance student achievement and strengthen the region’s workforce.
About SOWELA Technical Community College
SOWELA Technical Community College offers dynamic instruction and practical learning opportunities that prepare students to seamlessly transfer or to excel in today’s workforce. For more information, visit www.sowela.edu.