Estela Vazquez-Ornelas serves as the Senior Director of Operations at the International Institute of Wisconsin (IIW), bringing 16 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and festival operations. She oversees all IIW programs and provides financial oversight for every department, ensuring that the organization’s mission of offering safe and legal pathways for immigration and U.S. naturalization remains strong. She has played a key role in IIW’s growth, helping it expand from 14 employees to 38 full-time and 5 part-time staff members.

Holiday Folk Fair International was Estela’s first volunteer opportunity after moving to the United States—an experience that not only helped her integrate into her new community but also ignited her lifelong passion for cultural preservation and community connection. Today, she leads with a willingness to learn, drives programs forward, and creates opportunities for hardworking staff while fostering a culture of collaboration and impact.

Estela also serves on the Board of Directors of CIOFF USA (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts) and acts as the Board Liaison between IIW’s staff and its Board of Directors. Her leadership ensures that IIW’s programs and cultural events, including the renowned Holiday Folk Fair International, continue to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultural and multiethnic heritage while inspiring the next generation to value and preserve culture.