“If you want something you have to raise your hand.”

“If you want something you have to raise your hand.” That’s what paved the way for Linda Alvarado, co-owner of the Colorado Rockies baseball team. Her keynote speech at the 2018 Women of Influence Luncheon, was a memorable one. She shared her story with added humor and enthusiasm, stating “ I applied to be a groundskeeper at my university (vs. the library where the women were placed). I was questioned as to why I would want to be in the sun all day, doing the heavy lifting, required to wear tennis shoes and work on a team of all men.” Her response to the placement officer was simply brilliant, “So what you’re saying is I can catch a tan, not have to go to the gym, wear comfortable shoes, and work with a group of single men?”

Mrs. Alvarado was a risk taker from the start. She knew she would need to break through a concrete ceiling and she was up for the challenge. She believed the first person she had to convince was herself. How true! Believing in yourself is the first step. “Even if it’s a risk, doing nothing doesn’t do anything.” 

Thank you Linda for providing such a powerful message. Proud to be a working woman in Tampa Bay, surrounded by such talent and tenacity!