About Me
I was born an Air Force brat at Cannon Air Force Base in Clovis, New Mexico and spent my first years living in multiple states and countries. My father was a first generation Mexican American and my mother German. I speak fluent Spanish as well as some German, and have attended public schools in Arizona since third grade.
I graduated from Arizona State University (go Sun Devils!) with two Bachelor's degrees–one in Journalism and Mass Communication and another in the areas of Interdisciplinary Studies. While at ASU, I was an active member of Gamma Alpha Omega, ASU's first Latina founded sorority and after graduating, helped found our Greater Phoenix Alumnae chapter.
After earning my degrees, I worked for a PR/Marketing firm where I learned that I am not the kind not of person willing to sacrifice my values and self-worth to climb any corporate ladder.
Since then, my career has been marked by a diverse range of service experiences, from slinging pasta at family-owned Italian restaurants and vitamins at Sprouts to assisting with real estate transactions and community outreach. However, my primary role has been in abode management and family coordination….a.k.a. being a stay-at-home mom :)
Once I became a parent, I realized that my professional endeavors needed to align with my desire to create a better future for my children. When my youngest started school, I faced a crucial decision: Return to full-time work or dedicate my time to building a stronger school and community.
I chose the latter: Founding a parent teacher organization (PTO) at The Creighton Academy (TCA). My goal was to foster a sense of community, encourage parental involvement, and support the school's revitalization. As a K-8 school, Creighton Academy offers a unique opportunity for families to be part of the school community for nine years, creating a lasting impact. The time I have committed to serving our schools is time I continually commit to our community.
After founding and running the TCA PTO, district leaders invited me to help start a district wide PTO initiative. Going on our second year, we are empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to organize and operate effectively for their neighborhood schools.
Aside from my volunteer work surrounding PTOs, I served on two district committees– one to review and amend our district policies on student conduct and discipline, and the other to adopt a new science curriculum.
I also had the chance to serve my community by working for the Creighton Community Foundation to help community members apply for SNAP/AHCCCS benefits and to also distribute food to families in need.
Currently, I lead an advocacy group to protect, support, and build dual language learning in our public schools. The Arizona state Superintendent of Public Instruction has targeted and attempted to dismantle dual/bilingual educational opportunities for many of our children. Our group is fighting back. We meet monthly at a local bilingual bookstore, please reach out to me if you are interested in learning more about this group.
In February 2024, I began serving as the board secretary for the
Urban Phoenix Project, a non-profit that works to raise awareness and inspire action for the creation of high-quality urban spaces that are livable, inviting, and accessible to all.
I started off as a parent looking for what’s best for my family and by following my heart have landed in a place where I can truly make a positive impact in our community. I hope that on November 5, the voters will allow me the opportunity to carry this work forward and represent our community as an elected school board member of the Creighton Elementary School District.
Endorsed by:
