What motivated you to work at ASPR? My alignment with ASPR's core principles, which mirror my personal beliefs and sense of duty, motivated me to join the organization. The opportunity to contribute to national preparedness and public health initiatives also played a significant role.
As a preparedness advisor in the SNS Office of State, Local, Tribal, Territorial, and Preparedness, my work is crucial for engaging partners in medical countermeasure logistics planning, coordinating access to SNS training, and providing technical support to enhance readiness to respond to public health threats. This work ensures that state, local, tribal, and territorial partners are well-prepared for public health emergencies.
Does your heritage shape the way that you serve the public or give you a unique perspective that contributes to public service? I proudly identify as Afro-Latino, with roots in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, and a multicultural Caribbean family background, including ties to the Bahamas and Jamaica. This heritage deeply informs my work, giving me a unique perspective that enriches my approach to public service. It’s an honor to contribute to our mission while representing my community, and I hope it serves as an inspiration to others.
Has your work impacted Hispanic or Latin communities? My work, particularly through my fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi, has impacted black and brown communities, including Hispanic and Latin American communities, by contributing to community service and fundraising for college scholarships, which provide opportunities for underrepresented groups.
