Professional Journey
 

My journey into public service began with my mother, who was the force that propelled my siblings and I to commit ourselves to personal and professional growth through education. Her unwavering belief in the power of knowledge and relationship-building set the foundation for everything I have accomplished. At a very young age, I found myself knocking on doors, persuading people to participate in the United States Census, and encouraging them to exercise their right to vote. Those early experiences shaped my passion for civic and political engagement, alongside leaders who continue to positively impact our community.
 

As I grew older, my involvement deepened. Having worked on local campaigns, upon graduation from William Paterson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Psychology, I was tapped by a candidate for the NJ Assembly. If successful, she would become the first woman and first Latina to serve the district. That journey has led me to serve as Field Director and/or Campaign Manager in numerous federal, state, county and local elections. Additionally, I coordinate and direct annual fundraisers for campaign-related purposes, thereby also serving to remain politically engaged.
 

For over 25 years, I have passionately worked directly with the community, serving as a vital link between the government and the public. As Chief of Staff and Policy Director to the trailblazing candidate, former Assemblywoman and now-Senator Nellie Pou, I oversee key areas including public policy, communications, personnel matters, constituent relations, and outreach. My involvement extends deeply into state matters such as budget, judiciary, commerce, health, and human services. As the Liaison Officer to the NJ Legislative Latino Caucus, I collaborate closely with legislators on important initiatives while actively supporting and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion policies across public and private sectors. Additionally, I help raise funds to provide scholarships and internship opportunities, furthering opportunities for the next generation of leaders.
 

My role as Chairwoman of the Passaic County Board of Social Services, appointed by the County's Board of Commissioners, has allowed me to engage in all aspects of the agency, including the review and approval of a multi-million dollar budget, personnel and legal matters, labor contract negotiations, education and training, building lease agreements, security and daily operations.
 

In addition to my public service roles, serving on a corporate board, namely the nationally recognized Automobile Club known as AAA, I’ve had the opportunity to influence decisions in personnel, legal, budget, investments, strategic planning, marketing, outreach, and partnerships with community organizations.

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As an Executive Board member of both Latina Civic and the NJ Dominican American Elected and Appointed Officials Caucus, I actively support and promote candidates for office who are ethical leaders and passionate about public service. Through my involvement in statewide and local political organizations, I am committed to advancing leadership that truly serves the community.
 

I am also deeply committed to philanthropic work through non profit organizations like Latina Civic Action which focuses on civic education and voter engagement, and Ese Papelito Foundation, which empowers students through scholarships and mentorship, while utilizing its charitable arm to assist our communities’ most vulnerable in need of social services.
 

Driven by my passion for journalism, I serve as a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, where I contribute to fostering a more transparent and democratic society by creating content that informs and stimulates meaningful public discourse.

 

My goal is to stay dedicated to making a difference in every role I take on, consistently striving to be a catalyst for change.