Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.
This month, we’re getting to know Alex Llamas, program director, Early Childhood Supports and Services (ECSS).
Continue reading to learn more about Alex:
Describe a typical workday in your life.
One thing I have learned in my role is there really is no “typical” day and that is one of the things I enjoy about it. My day may include meeting with state partners, collaborating with providers across Louisiana, supporting my team, reviewing program data or working with community organizations to increase awareness of Early Childhood Supports and Services. At the center of all of it is the same goal: making sure children and families have access to the support they need to grow, thrive and be healthy.
What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?
My favorite thing to do is spend time with my wife and our family. We have a beautiful six-year-old daughter and a three-year-old son who definitely keeps us busy, but they also keep me grounded. With how busy work can get, I really value the time I get to just be present with my family, whether we’re traveling, hanging out at home or simply making memories together. They bring me so much joy and are honestly one of the best ways for me to disconnect and recharge. Spending time with them helps me slow down, enjoy the little moments and remember what matters most.
Do you have any recipes that you love to make (or have made for you)?
Growing up in Mexico, food has always been a big part of family and bringing everyone together. One of my absolute favorites is pozole verde de pollo, and I have to say, my mom makes the best one! It’s a traditional Mexican soup made with chicken and hominy in a flavorful green broth, topped with fresh lettuce, radishes, onion, lime and a little spice. For me, it’s more than just a favorite meal, it reminds me of home, my childhood and time spent with family.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month is very meaningful to me because it gives me an opportunity to remember where I come from and celebrate the traditions that shaped who I am today. I grew up in a small town called Los Llamas, Zacatecas, Mexico, where family, community and traditions were part of everyday life. I grew up surrounded by my primos (cousins), many of whom lived nearby, and some of my best childhood memories are of all of us growing up together.
One of the things I love most about my Hispanic culture is our sense of family and community. We come together during the good times to celebrate, but we also come together during difficult times to support one another. That sense of community has stayed with me throughout my life and is something I hope to pass on to my children.
What traditions around Hispanic Heritage Month do you and/or your family celebrate?
One celebration that is especially important to me is Mexican Independence Day. The celebration begins on the evening of September 15 with El Grito and continues on September 16, Mexico’s Independence Day. Growing up, celebrations like this meant family, food, music, traditions and being together as a community.
Now that I live in the United States, I still enjoy seeing my friends and community celebrate our heritage by wearing traditional Mexican and Hispanic clothing and coming together through food, music and many of the traditions we grew up with. It brings back wonderful memories of home and reminds me that even though I may be far from the small town where I grew up, my culture and traditions continue to be an important part of who I am. I also enjoy sharing those traditions with my children so they can understand where our family comes from and take pride in their heritage.
What drew you to Magellan?
I was drawn to Magellan because of the opportunity to make an impact on a larger scale. My professional background has centered around behavioral health, children, families and community-based services, so the opportunity to help lead an initiative focused on infant and early childhood mental health felt very meaningful to me. ECSS allows us to intervene early, strengthen families and help build a foundation that can positively influence a child for years to come.
What do you like best about your current position?
What I enjoy most is knowing that we are building something that can make a lasting difference for children and families across Louisiana. I have the opportunity to work with providers, state partners, community organizations and an incredible group of professionals who all bring different perspectives to the table. Seeing a program move from planning and implementation to actually reaching families is incredibly rewarding. Every referral represents a child and family who may now have access to support they did not have before.
How do you feel you excel in supporting your team(s)?
I believe leadership starts with relationships. I try to create an environment where people feel supported, heard and comfortable bringing both successes and challenges to the table. I believe in recognizing people for what they do well, providing guidance when they need it and being willing to have difficult conversations when necessary. I also never want to ask someone to do something I am unwilling to do myself. At the end of the day, my goal as a leader is not simply to manage the work; it is to help people grow, feel valued and understand how their individual contributions connect to the larger mission.
