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About Me
I am an associate professor at Rowan University in New Jersey, though my academic journey began in California, where I was the youngest of six children and the only one to graduate from college. This achievement fueled my curiosity about why some students pursue higher education while others do not, especially among underrepresented groups. My undergraduate years at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, shaped this curiosity as I became involved with the Las Vegas Latino Youth Leadership Conference, a community-based program empowering high school students to connect education, community, and culture. This experience highlighted the systemic factors influencing student success and solidified my commitment to advancing educational opportunities for all.
After earning a bachelor’s degree, I pursued a master’s in education administration, planning, and social policy at Harvard University, where I explored how education shapes societal outcomes and structures. I later earned my doctoral degree from the University of Michigan, working on issues at the intersection of organizations, leadership, and the public good. My career trajectory includes roles as an administrator, counselor, and researcher, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of the political and structural dimensions of education policy. These experiences informed my work at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where I contributed to shaping public policy conversations about access through dual appointments with the Lincy Institute and the School of Public Policy and Leadership.
Today, my research focuses on advancing access to education—particularly for Latina/o students—through the study of governance, policy systems, and the dynamics of public policy change. I aim to empower decision-makers, minimize barriers, and position education as a cornerstone of a diverse democracy. By engaging policymakers, educators, and institutional leaders, I strive to contribute to equitable systems that promote social mobility and ensure all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Areas of Research:
- K-16 education policy: Governance structures and leadership dynamics shaping educational access.
- Public policy change: Exploring the individuals and systems driving transformative policies.
- Latina/o student success: Examining barriers and pathways to opportunity.
- Resilience and adaptability in education: Strategies for addressing crises and fostering sustainable growth.
- Representation in policymaking: The role of identity and experience in shaping policy priorities.