National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 to October 15, is a time to celebrate the rich history, cultural diversity, and contributions from Hispanic communities. USDA’s Research, Education, and Economics (REE) mission area is home to over 8,000 of the world’s best and brightest minds in agricultural science, data, and innovation. This month, REE is spotlighting several brilliant colleagues who are pioneering change at USDA and within their communities.
Name: Luz Serrato Diaz
Title: Research Plant Pathologist
Agency/Office: USDA Agricultural Research Service
Briefly describe your job.
As a plant pathologist, I focus on studying the diseases that affect tropical crops like mango, cacao, and coffee, with a special focus on how the pathogens evolve over time. My work in Puerto Rico involves identifying and researching the pathogens that threaten these vital crops, understanding how they spread, and finding ways to manage or prevent the damage they cause. This includes monitoring disease progression, understanding the evolution of pathogens, analyzing the impact on crop yields, and developing sustainable solutions to protect these plants, which are important not only for local agriculture, but also for global markets. My goal is to safeguard these crops and contribute to food security by ensuring healthy, resilient plants.
Tell us about your heritage and what it means to you.
My Colombian heritage is a deep source of pride and identify for me. Growing up in a culture rich with vibrant traditions, strong family ties, and a deep love for music, food and history, has shaped who I am today. For me being Colombian means embracing a spirit of resilience and joy, even in the face of challenges. It’s about celebrating life with a passion—whether through our energetic dances like cumbia and salsa or sharing traditional dishes like arepas, tamales, and lechona with loved ones.
How do you honor your heritage and culture at work?
I honor my Colombian heritage at work by bringing a strong sense of community, collaboration, and resilience to everything I do. In Colombian culture, we deeply value relationships and teamwork, and I strive to build meaningful connections with my colleagues and foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere. I also emphasize the importance of adaptability and perseverance—qualities that are essential in both Colombian and immigrant experiences. These values guide me when navigating challenges, always focusing on finding solutions with a positive attitude.
Who is your Hispanic heritage hero?
Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina astronaut. Ochoa made history in space exploration and later became the director of the Johnson Space Center. Her achievements have inspired many in STEM fields, especially within the Hispanic community.
