Latinos in Transit (LIT) announced Milo Victoria as this year’s recipient of the Founders’ Award. Victoria was presented the award during the leadership luncheon at LIT’s 2024 Leadership Summit in Portland, Ore.

“From my humble beginnings as a little kid on a little island that’s not even on a map to becoming a CEO of a transit agency and running the bus operations in Washington, D.C., it was very special to me to be able to hold these positions,” said Milo Victoria, president and CEO, Victorious Gold Partners LLC. “Thank you, felicidades.”

Laying the Foundation for LIT

As LIT’s first board president, Victoria has long been a cornerstone of LIT. A true advocate for LIT’s mission he has consistently served as a trusted advisor and mentor to many organizational members.

When LIT was just beginning, he stepped into the challenging role to be the organization’s first board president. Alongside other founding members, he guided the organization through its formative years.

He continues to be an active participant, offering guidance drawn from his vast experience in the transit industry.

“Milo’s steadfast dedication and contributions have shaped Latinos in Transit into the thriving organization it is today,” said LIT Executive Director Christina Villarreal. “We are grateful for his leadership and unwavering support. In recognition of his service, we are proud to honor Milo Victoria with the 2024 Latinos in Transit Founders Award.”

Victoria’s role in Transit

Victoria has more than 49 years of metropolitan transit operations experience. He has led multiple agencies through the years with thousands of employees on his teams while bringing numerous projects to fruition.

Several of his executive roles include CEO of Omnitrans, the assistant general manager of bus services for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), and deputy executive officer for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

In his leadership roles he was responsible for grant acquisition, construction, initiation and operation of Omnitrans’ first Bus Rapid Transit route. He managed and led the overall performance of bus services for WMATA which includes a fleet of 1,500 buses.

“Milo's exceptional dedication and impact embodies the very spirit of Latinos in Transit, inspiring us all to continue striving for excellence,” said LIT Board President Herold Humphrey. “As the first-ever president of the organization, Milo laid the foundation for the values, vision, and community spirit we uphold today. His contributions continue to inspire us all, and this recognition is a testament to his profound impact on our organization and its mission. We are deeply grateful for his unwavering dedication and passion.”

About the Founders’ Award

The Founders’ Award is a prestigious recognition and symbolizes the highest honor within LIT. It’s presented to individuals or organizations who have made exceptional contributions, demonstrated outstanding leadership, and played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of LIT.

Recipients of this award are celebrated for their historical significance and enduring influence. Their legacy serves as a source of inspiration and reminder of the organization’s roots.

Past honorees include Terry Solis, 2018; Flora Castillo, 2019; MV Transportation Inc., 2021; and Nuria Fernandez, 2023.