External Advisory Board

The External Advisory Board of the College of Business Administration is composed of business and community leaders committed to excellence in higher education for our business students. The Board members share their talent and expertise to help us building a high quality, distinctive and relevant business program.

Andreica Maldonado

Andreica Maldonado directs the Research Grants Program at the Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust, driving investments in science and innovation. Under her leadership, the program awarded over $17 million to 162 projects, generating $70 million in additional funding. She launched Puerto Rico’s first space research initiatives, including experiments aboard SpaceX missions, showcasing global impact. Andreica champions education and public engagement, inspiring future scientists and entrepreneurs while fostering partnerships that strengthen Puerto Rico’s research ecosystem. Her work reflects a commitment to sustainable growth, technological advancement, and positioning Puerto Rico as a hub for scientific and entrepreneurial excellence.

Enid Barillas

Enid Barillas is President and CEO of Agustin Morales Inc. (AM Inc), overseeing three Econo supermarkets in northwest Puerto Rico, and serves on the Board of Directors of the National Grocers Association and the Marketing Committee of Econo Supermarkets. She has driven growth through strategic technology investments and founded the Healthy Path Market (HPM) Retail Dietitian program to integrate nutrition and wellness into the shopping experience. Recognized as Executive of the Year in 2021 by the Path to Purchase Institute, she previously held leadership roles at Lucent Technologies and BP Amoco, and holds degrees from the University of Puerto Rico and the University of Miami.

Ivelisse Acevedo, PHR, SHRM-CP

Ivelisse Acevedo is Head of the People’s Department at Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico, bringing extensive experience in human resources leadership. Her career includes roles as HR Manager and Senior Business Partner across industries, as well as teaching MBA courses. Ivelisse holds a BBA in HR and Marketing, an MBA in Human Resources, and certifications as PHR, SHRM-CP, Neurocoach, and Talent Magnet Expert. She is recognized for developing strategic HR initiatives that enhance organizational culture and workforce engagement. Through her expertise, Ivelisse continues to shape talent strategies that drive growth and innovation in Puerto Rico’s aerospace and manufacturing sectors.

Jaime R. Morales External Advisory Board Member

Jaime R. Morales Cordero

Economic development professional with extensive leadership experience in business associations, local governments, and nonprofit organizations, primarily in Puerto Rico. Possesses strong expertise in strategic planning, project management, grant acquisition, and the promotion of regional and entrepreneurial economic growth.

Has held senior leadership roles including Program Director, City Manager, Chief Economic Development Officer, and Business Consultant, leading initiatives in innovation, resilience, investment attraction, and public policy implementation. Holds academic credentials in finance and urban and regional affairs, has received professional certifications and recognitions, and actively serves on nonprofit boards. Committed to advancing economic development and entrepreneurship in Puerto Rico.

Jesús E. (Nesty) Delgado

Jesús “Nesty” Delgado is President of TEAM 1144, LLC and Director of the Project Management & Transformational Leadership Institute® at UPR Mayagüez. With over 20 years of experience, he specializes in critical infrastructure projects, AI governance, and organizational resilience, managing portfolios exceeding $700 million. As Puerto Rico’s ambassador to the Global Council for Responsible AI, he promotes ethical, people-centered AI adoption. Nesty hosts TRANSFORMAcción® on WKAQ 580 AM, translating complex trends into actionable strategies. Holding degrees in Civil Engineering and Project Management, plus multiple certifications, his mission is to empower future-ready leaders through innovation, risk management, and digital transformation.

Jon Haug

Jon Haug is Senior Vice President and Treasurer at Eli Lilly and Company, with a career spanning global finance, manufacturing, and strategic leadership. Since joining Lilly in 2000, he has held roles in audit, tax, M&A, and treasury, later serving as CFO for the UK and Northern Europe Hub and Global Biomedicines. Jon led manufacturing finance during the COVID-19 pandemic, overseeing antibody supply and major expansions. He holds degrees in economics, English, law, and an MBA from Northwestern University. Outside of work, Jon enjoys family time, beekeeping, and outdoor activities, reflecting a balance of professional excellence and personal passions.

José E. Cruz, CPIM, CMQ/OE

José E. Cruz is Associate Director of the Business Support Unit at Pratt & Whitney Puerto Rico, part of RTX. With over 36 years of experience across aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and electronics, he has led transformative initiatives in quality systems, EH&S, supply chain, and mergers. His leadership includes implementing Demand Flow Technology and global distribution strategies. José holds an Executive MBA, a BS in Materials Management, and certifications in Production & Inventory Management and Quality Excellence. Residing in Isabela, Puerto Rico, he is passionate about ocean sports and continues to drive operational excellence and innovation in the aerospace sector.

José Erba, CPA

José Erba is Managing Tax Director at PwC Puerto Rico, specializing in tax consulting and compliance for corporations and individuals. With over 20 years of experience, he advises on income, property, sales, and transaction taxes, serving diverse industries such as retail, manufacturing, and telecom. His career spans roles in credit supervision, property management, and international tax compliance. José joined PwC in 2003 and advanced through leadership positions, recognized for his technical expertise and client-focused solutions. He holds deep knowledge of Puerto Rico’s tax system and is committed to delivering practical, high-value strategies for businesses and individuals.

Lucas Torres

Lucas Torres is a seasoned leader in portfolio management at Bank of America, overseeing a $22 million marketing portfolio and guiding a team of program and project managers. With a strong technical foundation in Computer Science and advanced programming, he has driven Agile transformations and successfully delivered high-value programs, including a $38 million initiative with governance and risk oversight. Beyond his corporate role, Lucas is passionate about diversity and cultural leadership, actively promoting Puerto Rican heritage through music and dance.

Nelson J. Perea Fas

Nelson Perea is Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Techno-Economic Corridor (PRTEC), leading strategic initiatives to foster innovation and economic development. For over 21 years, he has built partnerships that established Puerto Rico’s aerospace industry, medical device cluster, and pioneering startup incubators. Nelson also spearheaded training programs benefiting thousands and served as President of the Western Chamber of Commerce, driving regional growth and strategic alliances. Recognized as Executive of the Year by industrial associations, he holds degrees in Business Administration, Public Policy, and advanced studies in Spain. Nelson remains a key advocate for knowledge-based economic transformation in Puerto Rico.

Rosa M. Uriarte Soto

Rosa Uriarte is Director of The Enterprise Center at Pathstone in Puerto Rico, where she leads programs supporting entrepreneurship and economic development. With a background in industrial management and leadership, she holds degrees from UPR Mayagüez and Ana G. Méndez University, plus certifications in business skills and economic development. Rosa began her career at the Small Business Development Center and later managed projects at UPR’s Economic Development Center. In 1999, she founded her own consulting firm, serving businesses for over a decade. Passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, Rosa continues to strengthen Puerto Rico’s business ecosystem through strategic guidance and innovation.