Dr. Elizabeth Ortiz de Valdez

A Life of Purpose, Faith, and Unwavering Service

Some are born to follow a path. Others, like Dr. Elizabeth Ortiz de Valdez, are born to create one. As a proud member of what she calls the “generation of change,” Dr. Ortiz de Valdez courageously pursued a career in medicine when only a third of medical students at the University of Guadalajara were women. Armed with conviction, faith, and grit, she not only became a doctor but a relentless advocate for health equity in Arizona’s Latino and underserved communities.

Raised as a Protestant in predominantly Catholic Mexico, she learned early the power of perspective and how belonging to a religious minority taught her survival, tolerance, and empathy. Guided by her mother’s sentido de superación (strong will to grow) and her father’s wisdom, Elizabeth learned that faith, perseverance, and education could be a compass through even the most uncertain terrain.

Her legacy was born not in comfort but in calling. When she realized that no agency was addressing the health disparities affecting Latino communities, she co-founded Concilio Latino de Salud (CLDS). More than an organization, CLDS became her third child, a living extension of her family’s values and a vessel for collective healing. Together, they sacrificed, served, and stayed committed to one vision: the well-being of the people.

At nearly 80 years old, her spirit remains as vibrant as ever. Her joy comes from community, the fuel that propels her forward. Her call to action is simple yet powerful: “Each of us is called to serve. We all have something to give. Let’s make this world better together.” 

Her story reminds us that stubbornness can be a strength when it’s rooted in love and lifted by purpose. Dr. Ortiz de Valdez is not just part of history; she is a living beacon of what it means to lead with heart.

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