Chantal Triay Named 2026 “49 Under 49” Honoree by California State University, Long Beach for Leadership and Community Impact
Los Angeles, CA, United States, 9th Feb 2026 – Chantal Triay, Executive Director of Corazon, has been named a 2026 “49 Under 49” honoree by California State University, Long Beach, recognizing her professional leadership, philanthropic commitment, and sustained impact across construction, education, and community development.
Community Impact Leadership Award
The 49 Under 49 program honors alumni under the age of 49 who make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. It reflects the university’s founding year of 1949 and recognizes graduates demonstrating excellence, service, and long-term impact.
Triay was selected for her leadership at Corazon, a nonprofit that provides safe housing, expands educational access, and supports family and community development in underserved communities in Mexico. As Executive Director, she manages Corazon’s Construction, Education, and Family and Community programs. These programs address housing insecurity, create leadership pathways, and break cycles of poverty through practical, community-driven solutions.
One of Corazon’s most recognized initiatives, the “Build a House in a Day” program, brings U.S. volunteers to Mexico to construct a permanent home for a family in a single day. The program offers immediate stability and fosters cross-border collaboration and service learning.
Leadership Across Construction and Service
Before joining the nonprofit sector, Triay built her career in construction, managing projects across Southern California. She oversaw sustainable developments, prefabricated structures, and medical research facilities. She became the first woman construction superintendent at one of the region’s top Tenant Improvement Contractors. This firm is also recognized as one of Southern California’s leading women-owned businesses.
Her expertise earned her invitations to speak at international construction conferences in China on sustainability, technology, and industry trends. She also spoke at the Beach Women in Engineering Conference at California State University, Long Beach. Moreover, she collaborates with the university’s Construction Engineering Management Department to provide students with hands-on learning and service opportunities.
In addition, Triay authored The Girl Who Said She Could, a children’s book focused on confidence, perseverance, and empowerment. In 2023, Entrepreneur’s Herald Magazine recognized her as one of the “Top 30 Women Leaders to Look Out For.”
Vision for Sustainable Impact
Looking ahead, Triay plans to expand Corazon’s impact by strengthening partnerships and leadership development programs. She also aims to connect construction, education, and community service to achieve long-term change.
“The recognition reflects the collective work of the communities and partners I serve,” said Triay. “Lasting impact comes from access, education, and opportunity working together.”
About Corazon
Corazon is a nonprofit organization that delivers practical solutions to address housing insecurity, limited access to education, and long-term economic stability in Mexico. Corazón provides families with secure homes, access to electricity and sanitation, scholarships, mentorship, vocational training, and leadership development opportunities. The organization’s volunteer-driven programs are designed to create stability, empowerment, and generational impact.
For more information, visit https://www.corazon.org or follow Corazon on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/corazoncommunity/.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corazoncommunity/
Company Details
Organization: Corazon
Contact Person: Chantal Triay
Website: https://www.corazon.org
Email: chantal@corazon.org
City: Los Angeles
State: CA
Country: United States
Release Id: 09022641148