A dynamic, interactive workshop that transforms self-doubt into bold, purposeful self-leadership — guided by the four-part Hero C.O.D.E. Also available as an impactful keynote.
Every Hero C.O.D.E. session walks students through four shifts — from fear to action, from doubt to direction.
Face the fear and act anyway.
Turn your past into your power.
Set a bold vision for what's next.
Create your roadmap
GOVERNMENT & COMMUNITY LEADER · BILINGUAL
A dynamic attorney, transformational leader, and public speaker with a 20+ year career across government, law, and policy. Appointed by two New York State Governors and twice confirmed by the Senate, she serves on the NYS Workers' Compensation Board. A proud daughter of immigrants — single-mom turned statewide leader — she blends powerful storytelling with practical leadership takeaways.
Clarissa, thank you for everything today. The girls were so engaged. The fact that you created a space where they could share and learn and engage in Spanish is super valuable and I loved your entire presentation. You're such a pro… and you're such an amazing speaker. You flow so seamlessly between English and Spanish — it was really, really good for our girls who are semi-shy with new people. You are amazing — so well done and so beautifully presented for our group of girls. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Sam
LMI Statewide Coordinator
"Your presentation was so inspiring — I loved how the girls were so engaged, listening and participating. I personally enjoyed it as much as the girls; I know it was a God-given moment that I needed to attend that day. I will certainly be referencing your presentation to many people I know would benefit from it."
Desire
Mentor, LMI
"Incredible presentation! I love the manner in which it leads the girls to think about their own powers and potential for the future."
Fulvia
Mentor, LMI
"Fantastic! Enjoyed how you wove your personal story into the presentation. It gave the girls a tangible and excellent example that they could relate to as part of the exercise."
Belkis
Mentor, LMI
"The Hero C.O.D.E. workshop was informative, engaging and transformative — it taught our participants key skills for actualizing their dreams and goals."
Jennifer Rogers
Site Coordinator, NYC Public School MS-45
"An inspiring role model and a highly effective speaker, offering clear, practical guidance to help students prepare for life after graduation."
Dr. Mery Diaz, DSW, LCSW
Faculty Director, CREAR Futuros · CUNY
"Motivational and age-appropriate for young people. Students need role models like you — and you accomplished exactly that."
Dean Ana Garcia Reyes
Hostos Community College · CUNY
"The presentation's interactive framework proved to be the most resonant element for the participants. By using a superhero-themed story as a relatable anchor, Clarissa kept engagement high. This structure facilitated meaningful breakout discussions, allowing the girls to process Clarissa's prompts directly with their mentors and translate abstract concepts into personal insights. I personally loved the session! The superhero framing was a hit, and the insights shared were very relevant."
Principal Soto
Bronx, NY
Middle-school, high-school, college-age students and young adults. Content is tailored to your group's age and goals.
Yes — the Hero C.O.D.E. can be delivered fully in English, Spanish or bilingual.
Both. Clarissa presents on-site for schools and groups, or remotely for distributed audiences.
Clarissa is an attorney and former cabinet-level agency head who led a 1,000-person New York State agency, was appointed by two NY Governors and twice confirmed by the State Senate, and is admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court Bar. A bilingual keynote speaker and mentor with the Governor's NYS Latina Mentoring Initiative, she began her career as a community organizer in the Bronx and Brooklyn — and she's a proud mom of two beautiful daughters. Read her full bio →
The workshop is free. In return, Clarissa appreciates your feedback on how to improve the program — and any other feedback you'd like to share.
Yes — this workshop was actually adapted from a similar talk she gives to executives, non-profit organizations, government leaders, managers and others interested in leadership topics. Please contact her for more information.
Send your dates, group size, and language preference through the form below and we'll build a custom session.
Book the Hero C.O.D.E. workshop for your school or group — in English or Spanish.