Who we are: Andres Hernandez has been saved
Life at Deloitte
Who we are: Andres Hernandez
A story of pride and mentorship
April 25, 2019
When Andres Hernandez, senior consultant, Deloitte & Touche LLP, first came to Deloitte, he began researching how he could get involved in inclusion. “I looked on our internal networking sites to see who was involved in both LGBTQ issues and veterans’ issues,” Andres says. Andres served in the military as a reservist during the era of “Don’t ask, Don’t tell”. He had not been active in the LGBTQ community at work while he was serving in the army, but when he joined Deloitte, he was excited to get involved.
Andres reached out to Kevin Potter, managing director, Deloitte Tax LLP, who was involved with both communities and asked how he could learn more. This started an incredibly meaningful and supportive mentorship for Andres. “Kevin helped me early on with how to connect with others and learn about Deloitte. I started leaning in more and he identified leadership opportunities for me to grow.” Through his mentorship, Kevin not only helped Andres identify involvement opportunities in inclusion, but also asked him to join in on a veteran-related pro bono project. “It felt like I came full-circle,” Andres said. “To be at Deloitte and be open with who I am while giving back to the veterans’ community that I care about.”
Andres also asked Kevin for advice when he wanted to move to LA with his boyfriend. “When there is a difficult situation at work or I question how I should approach something, Kevin is the first person that I call,” Andres said. Kevin advised him throughout the relocation process. Now, Andres loves being in LA and adopted a dog, Sergeant Pupper, to complete his family.
Recently, Andres and his boyfriend were featured in a television commercial that showcased different stages of relationships. “It’s incredible to me,” Andres reflected. “From serving in the Army during Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, to now having my relationship be featured on a commercial. I finally get to just be myself.”
Learn more about Deloitte's commitment to military veterans, and about our culture of continuous learning and mentorship.
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