As Program Manager for the MANO Project, Nina aspires to connect young BIPOC professionals to opportunities in fields where they are underrepresented, giving back to the community she calls family.

Nina grew up just outside of Washington, D.C.—a second-generation immigrant born into a Salvadoran and Cuban home. She graduated from The Catholic University of America with a B.A. in Theater. Nina worked as an artist, educator, and arts administrator for seven years. During that time, she had the pleasure of bringing theater to young audiences on stage and in the classroom. The impact of those experiences on her students inspired her to transition fully to nonprofit work.

Prior to joining Hispanic Access, Nina also worked with the National Park Trust, partnering with public land agencies such as the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife, as well as nonprofit groups, to develop outdoor educational experiences for students in Title I schools across the country.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

“I was very curious about Hispanic Access when I first found out about the organization. I didn't know of any other organizations doing the work that Hispanic Access does to support Latino communities. I reached out to then Deputy Director of Conservation Jennifer Brandt to learn more and was really impressed not only with the mission but the culture of the organization. About a year and a half later a position opened within the MANO Project, and I jumped at the opportunity. Now, here I am!”

In her spare time…

“I've always been inspired by wildlife, and being outdoors is the best medicine for stress. I like to hike and camp when I can, and I volunteer at a local nature center. Rock climbing, yoga, running, and quality time with my dog keeps me healthy and happy. I also have a deep love for theatre and act semi-professionally in local productions.”

Her favorite book…

“My newest favorite is Things in Jars by Jess Kid. My favorite genres are magical realism and gothic horror/mystery/thriller and this book hits all the right notes.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“It’s hard to pick a single person. I'm most inspired by people I talk to every day: family, friends, colleagues. I am surrounded by people who are talented, principled, and work hard. When I am feeling low, I look at how people around me, like me, have their own struggles but are putting a little bit of good into the world every day, and that inspires me.