Veronica is the Government Affairs Manager at the Hispanic Access Foundation. In this role, she develops and executes strategies to advocate for the interest of the Hispanic community at the federal, state, and local levels. She is passionate about addressing disparities the Hispanic community faces and committed to ensuring their voices are heard and influential in decision-making processes.
Veronica was born and raised in Nicaragua and faced significant challenges upon her arrival in the U.S., especially in accessing essential resources. These early struggles fueled her determination to address disparities within the Hispanic community. Her journey towards making a positive impact began with volunteering and assisting immigrants in connecting with vital resources and navigating complex legal issues. She also gained valuable experience working at an immigration law firm, where she provided crucial support to clients seeking legal assistance with immigration matters. Her work at Montgomery County's Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center and helping Latin American refugees at HIAS deepened her understanding of community challenges. These experiences drive her unwavering commitment to meaningful change.
Before joining Hispanic Access, Veronica excelled in different roles at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), bridging the gap between Members of Congress, stakeholders, and the Hispanic community. She fostered positive relationships and worked collaboratively with over 35 Members of congress on various initiatives to address challenges faced by the hispanic community. In addition to her passion for addressing disparities in the Hispanic community, Veronica brings expertise in government relations, corporate relations, board engagement, and management, making her a valuable asset in her mission for positive change.
Veronica graduated with honors, earning her Bachelor's degree in Political Science with a minor in Practical Policy and Politics from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). She is currently pursuing a Master's degree in International Relations at American University.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"My own life experiences and what I've learned while working with the community are what drive my deep commitment to Hispanic Access Foundation's mission. I'm determined to do more than just uplift Hispanic voices; I want to empower them with the influence they rightfully deserve in important decision-making. My hope is that future generations won't have to face the same hardships that our community has endured."
In her spare time…
“In my free time, you'll often find me unwinding with some anime or K-drama, indulging in delicious meals, or seeking solace in the beauty of nature when life gets a bit overwhelming.”
Her favorite book…
“It's challenging for me to choose a single favorite book because I have a deep love for reading. However, one of the earliest books I read that left a profound and lasting impact on me was "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini. This book touched my heart in a unique way, unlike any other book I had read at that age.
A person she finds inspirational…
“One person who inspires me deeply is my mother. She not only survived the Nicaraguan war but also actively engaged in politics, collaborating with prominent figures like Violeta Chamorro, who happens to be the only female president of Nicaragua to this date. Her unwavering dedication to effecting positive change has been a driving force in my life. My mother instilled in me the fundamental values of advocating for justice and championing the welfare of others. Her enduring sacrifices and steadfast commitment continue to serve as a profound source of inspiration in my life.”