Mónica (she/her/ella) is as Chicana, educator, advocate, and a first-generation college graduate.  Driven by a desire for understanding her own history and a passion for social change she earned her BA in Latin American Studies and Sociology from California State University, Chico. Her academic and personal journey profoundly shaped her approach as an educator and community advocate. 

She spent 10 years as an educator in alternative education; she was committed to addressing the conditions and barriers students experienced in the traditional school system. For example, Mónica developed Ethnic Studies project based curriculum that authentically reflected the diversity of students, ensuring they saw themselves represented in their learning. Additionally, these projects celebrated diverse backgrounds and empowered individuals to explore and understand their histories, struggles, and movements for equity. Through this work, Mónica aimed to foster solidarity among individuals from diverse backgrounds, facilitate critical examination of systemic racism and collaboratively find solutions to dismantle it. Recognizing the various needs of students, Mónica adapted their curriculum to foster accessibility and provide students with the skills necessary for academic success. 

Additionally, Monica has been involved with the grassroots organization Brown Issues whose mission is to create the next generation of Brown leaders through healing, civic engagement, and narrative change. As an advisor she engaged and equipped young students with the resources and tools necessary to become civically engaged leaders, addressing the underlying systemic issues present in their local communities. Central to this endeavor was addressing the lack of resources for youth and their families, including the lack of affordable extracurricular activities, affordable housing and food insecurity. By empowering students to advocate for change, Mónica strived to create more equitable and inclusive communities for all.

Region in the diasporas I identify with: México