What was your path/journey after you graduated from Cornell?
I moved to NYC after graduation, and lived there for 20 years, before moving back to Texas. I currently reside in San Antonio, 150 miles from my hometown of Del Rio, Texas, along the US-Mexico border. I was born and raised in Del Rio, and my business has its principal warehouse there.
I was in the fashion industry in NYC and LA for ten-plus years, as a Merchant and Product Developer, before I decided to launch my own brand of premium Mexican culinary products called HERNÁN. All HERNÁN products are made in Mexico in partnership with local artisans and producers, many of whom are expanding beyond their local origins for the first time. The range includes specialty foods (Mexican hot chocolate & moles) and Mexican kitchenware. For more details regarding my entrepreneurial journey, check out this profile: https://alumni.cornell.edu/profile/women-in-entrepreneurship-spotlight-isela-hernandez-95/.
Which Cornell classmates do you keep in contact with?
So many! From my freshman year floor was the introduction of the Multicultural Learning Living Unit (MCLLU) (fourth floor of Class of ’17 Hall) to my Collegetown apartment mates and ILR classmates - too many to name. I am so happy to have developed such deep connections to them all!
The changing of the seasons - the crisp cool breeze, leaves changing colors in the fall, and reuniting with friends after the summer break.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Cornell?
What are you most looking forward to at Reunion 2025?
Walking through campus and bumping into friendly familiar (albeit slightly older and more mature) faces. I am also looking forward to sitting at my favorite reading spot at AD White Library with the view of West Campus. I love attending the thought-provoking themed lectures which make me feel like I am back on campus as a student.