Lina Stover

Dr. Lina Traslaviña Stover is a Sociologist dedicated to addressing inequality and social justice. Born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, she moved to Nebraska to further her education. With extensive experience in higher education, her work has focused on expanding access for underrepresented populations to higher education and understanding migration’s complexities. She believes that listening to people’s histories fosters empathy and drives meaningful change: “it is from these histories that we can identify patterns of inequality and explore solutions. Understanding precedes action.”

Lina brings her passion for cultivating leaders into her current role as the Executive Director of the Heartland Workers Center, a nonprofit committed to building leadership and civic engagement among immigrant and underserved communities in Nebraska. She oversees key programs such as “Get Out The Vote,” the Health & Safety Training Institute, Leadership Development, and the Family Safety Plan. She believes that leadership is rooted in motion, “It is the active and intentional effort to build relationships, communicate with compassion, and collaborate patiently.”

Under her leadership and the collective efforts of the HWC team, the Heartland Workers Center received the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Award and recognition from the South Omaha Neighborhood Alliance (SONA). Lina is proud of the work of team members, volunteers, and community support who believe in the impact of collective action and change.