I am a graduate student in Applied Sociology at the University of Indianapolis and a first-generation Latina. I am passionate about empowering and building the capacity for Latina leaders to address social problems in our community. Outdated beliefs, gender disparities, and generational trauma sometimes lead people in the community to think women are less valuable than men. This can lead to people expecting more from men than from women. There needs to be so much more community-wise for Latina women so they can step in a different direction than some people may want them to. We need a women's support system within nonprofits and other organizations that will focus mainly on helping underrepresented women have a voice and communicate with others about how a different pathway in life is sometimes needed.

My experiences working in the Office of Inclusive Excellence have built my collaboration and communication skills. I look forward to building on these skills in my graduate program and as part of the Newman Civic Fellowship, developing my skills and my structural perspective, and being part of the next generation of Latina leaders addressing social issues and building our community.