Angela Fronista, President and CEO of BTAS and a proud Wright State University alumna, was honored with the Community Hero Award at Wright State University’s ninth annual Amigos Latinos Gala on October 5, 2024. The event, held at the WSU Nutter Center during National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated Angela’s unwavering commitment to the Latino community, particularly through her support of the Latino Center at Wright State, El Puente after-school program, and PACO (Puerto Rican, American and Caribbean Organization).
A Legacy of Service and Inspiration
For Angela, giving back is deeply personal. Her commitment to community service is inspired by her mother’s legacy and Latino leaders like Tony Ortiz, who have shown her the power of positive action. She recalls how her parents, both dedicated professionals, used their medical practice as a platform for outreach, instilling in their children the importance of service. “We know the uncertainty of stepping out, but we also know the deep satisfaction of being a servant,” she shares.
Her Puerto Rican heritage has also shaped her approach to leadership and giving. Growing up in Huber Heights, Angela was deeply influenced by the cultural values of family, faith, and resilience. Her involvement in organizations like the Puerto Rican Cultural Society, founded in part by her parents, allowed her to witness firsthand how community-driven efforts can empower and uplift others.
Championing Latino Advancement
Angela’s dedication extends to Wright State’s Latino Center, where she supports initiatives that foster education, mentorship, and cultural awareness for Latino students. Reflecting on her own time at Wright State, she believes that if the Latino Center had existed during her student years, it would have provided an invaluable network of peers who shared her cultural background, making her college experience even richer.
Beyond the university, she actively supports El Puente, an after-school program that provides educational resources to Latino youth, and PACO, a community organization dedicated to cultural preservation and advocacy. Angela describes her devotion to these causes as part of a “do what I can” mentality, always seeking opportunities to uplift, mentor, and inspire the next generation.
The Power of the Amigos Latinos Gala
The Amigos Latinos Gala serves as more than just an annual celebration—it is a beacon of hope and recognition for the Latino community in Dayton. Angela emphasizes that the event not only fosters cultural pride but also generates enthusiasm for education and personal growth. “Supporting our youth as they strive to achieve their degrees is such a worthy cause. It generates hope for the future. That’s why we celebrate,” she says.
The Latino presence at Wright State and in Dayton has significantly grown over the years, with organizations like the Latino Center creating a welcoming environment for students. Angela recalls how, during her college years, she found inspiration through events hosted by the Puerto Rican Cultural Society, which brought high-achieving Puerto Ricans from around the U.S. to engage with the local community.
Empowered by Education, Driven by Purpose
Angela credits Wright State University with preparing her for career success by teaching her how to juggle multiple responsibilities while applying real-world marketing concepts. This experience gave her the confidence to launch and lead BTAS, a nationally recognized business specializing in innovative solutions for government and commercial clients.
Her journey—from a student balancing work and studies to a CEO and community leader—is a testament to the power of perseverance, cultural pride, and service to others. As she continues to give back, Angela remains dedicated to helping others rise, fostering opportunities, and building a legacy of impact for the Latino community.
