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I've lived a life of leadership

Meet Gloria

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I've lived a life of leadership

Meet Gloria

Gloria Lara’s story is one of hard work, perseverance, family, service, and practical leadership.
  • Born in Los Angeles, the oldest of four children, Gloria learned the values of responsibility, determination, and hard work from her parents.

  • She worked full time while attending college at night, earning her degree in business administration and accounting from California State University, Fullerton — a goal that took ten years and a great deal of persistence.

  • Determined to continue growing, Gloria went on to earn her MBA from Harvard Business School with the help of fellowships and loans.

  • Gloria began her career in Detroit at Chrysler during the Lee Iacocca years, gaining firsthand experience in leadership, accountability, and decision-making during a challenging and important time in the auto industry.

  • The auto industry is also part of Gloria’s family story. Her husband, Milton Roye, built his career at General Motors, and together they understand how deeply the industry has shaped Michigan families and communities.

  • When Gloria and Milton both lost their jobs during the 2009 auto crisis, they faced a difficult and uncertain time — but they adapted, supported each other, and found a new path forward.

  • That new path brought them to West Michigan, where Gloria continued her work in nonprofit leadership, public service, environmental advocacy, volunteer financial leadership, and civic engagement.

  • Gloria brings decades of experience in financial oversight, governance, strategic planning, and community leadership.

  • She is a neighbor, wife, mother, and public servant who believes in showing up, doing the work, and serving with responsibility and care.

  • As a candidate for Walker City Commission, Gloria is running to bring steady, practical leadership to City Hall — focused on safe neighborhoods, strong city services, responsible planning, and making sure residents feel heard.