Having been a proud member of ATA since 2018, it’s an honor to run for a position on the Board of Directors. If elected, I’ll focus on strengthening our Association in three key areas: translation and interpreting in K-12 education, advocacy and policy, and enhancing language access and equity.
Growing up in Mexico, I was immersed in an environment that required constant code switching and bicultural negotiation. After emigrating to Canada and the U.S., I began my career in translation in my mid-20s while working full-time in the nonprofit sector. My passion for the field led me to seek additional training and professional development opportunities. In 2017, I joined Portland Public Schools as the head of the Language Access Department and became actively involved with ATA.
Currently, as the director of strategic communications and public affairs for the Multnomah Education Service District (MESD) in Multnomah County, Oregon, I serve as part of the superintendent’s cabinet. I also lead the development and implementation of effective multilingual communications, outreach, and engagement strategies to support the district’s strategic plan.
I’m deeply committed to language access and language justice as key components of racial equity in education. I’ve been recognized nationally for my work and impact in this area, receiving the 2024 Award of Excellence for our MESD branding and the National School Public Relations Association’s 2024 Award of Merit-Marketing Material. In 2023, I was shortlisted for the Think Global Awards under the category “Language Industry Person of the Year.” I received EdWeek’s “Leaders to Learn From in K-12” award in 2022 and the Language Access Visionary Award in 2021.
With a law degree and post-graduate certificate from Mexico, and a certificate in brand management from the University of London, I bring a combination of education, passion, and professional experience I believe will benefit ATA and its members. The Association has provided me with a vital sense of community and connection with fellow professionals and I’m eager to contribute to its continued success.
As a Board member, my priorities will include:
Strengthening ATA’s Educators Division: Expanding membership and offering more educational and networking opportunities while fostering cooperation and information exchange among members.
Policy Advocacy: Engaging with policymakers to advance legislation that supports language access, justice, and fair practices, especially in light of emerging technologies.
Enhancing Language Access and Equity: Implementing initiatives that ensure equitable language access across fields. This includes developing comprehensive language support resources, promoting multilingual communication, and addressing barriers faced by non-English speakers.
It would be a privilege to represent ATA members on its Board of Directors. Thank you for your consideration.