Victoria Petro, a Salt Lake City Council member representing District 1, has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, a role she assumes to drive economic opportunity for Hispanic and Latino entrepreneurs. The appointment follows years of organizational growth for the Chamber, which has been a tax-exempt nonprofit since June 1993.
New Leadership for the Chamber
As the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce announced in a June 19, 2025, press release, Petro brings over a decade of experience in nonprofit development, public policy, and community engagement to the organization. Nelson Altamirano, the Board Chair of the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, stated that Petro possesses a "powerful combination of visionary leadership, deep community roots, and a proven track record of driving impact across sectors."
Mission and Economic Goals
Altamirano noted that Petro's strategic mindset and passion for equitable economic growth make her uniquely suited to guide the Chamber into its next chapter. In her new capacity as Executive Director, Petro will lead efforts to expand resource access, elevate Latino and Hispanic entrepreneurs, and establish strategic partnerships intended to foster sustainable economic development across the state.
Petro's Public Service Career
Petro, who has served on the Salt Lake City Council representing the Rose Park area and other District 1 neighborhoods, expressed her honor in serving Utah's business community. She stated that her goal is to strengthen networks and ensure that Latino-owned businesses are recognized as the economic force they are.
Broad Community Influence
Petro's tenure in public service includes serving as Council Vice Chair in 2023 and Council Chair in 2024. She also holds representative roles on several boards, including the Utah Fairpark Area Investment and Restoration District Board, the Utah Inland Port Authority Board, and the Salt Lake City Airport Board. Her work is focused on advocating for equitable, community-centered development within the Salt Lake City Westside.
Professional Background
In addition to her legislative roles, Petro has held leadership positions with various organizations, including serving as Executive Director of Salty Cricket, a nonprofit focused on community building through music. Her professional background also includes work with the Sorenson Impact Institute and The Pathway Group, as well as strategic consulting and nonprofit leadership.
Academic and Honors
Petro's academic background includes a bachelor's degree in music therapy from East Carolina University, a master's in musicology from Brandeis University, and a master's in international studies from North Carolina State University. She also holds a certificate in nonprofit management from Duke University.
Recognized Leadership
Petro has been recognized for her community contributions through several awards, including the Salt Lake City Deedee Corradini Emerging Leader Award in 2019 and the Utah Women Run’s Martha Hughes Cannon Award for Outstanding Impact in Local Government in 2024.
