What motivated you to work at ASPR? My motivation to join ASPR’s exercise team was driven by my desire to make a broader impact. Having experienced the challenges of responding to public health emergencies in an island community, I wanted to ensure that all communities across the U.S. have access to the same reliable support I received. Joining ASPR's Strategic National Stockpile felt like the best way to make a meaningful difference in future responses.
In my role at ASPR SNS, I am involved in planning and supporting exercises that test the nation’s ability to respond to public health emergencies. These exercises are crucial for identifying gaps in preparedness and ensuring that our response strategies are effective and efficient. My work helps to ensure that, in the event of a crisis, communities across the U.S. have access to the medical countermeasures and support they need to protect public health and save lives.
Does your heritage shape the way that you serve the public or give you a unique perspective that contributes to public service? I was adopted and raised outside of the traditional Hispanic culture, but my family made sure I remained connected to my roots. They encouraged me to learn about my heritage and to make friends with people from all walks of life, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. Growing up in Texas, I was surrounded by a strong sense of community and cultural values that emphasized the importance of family, respect, and togetherness. These values are deeply rooted in my identity and have always guided me in my personal and professional life.
My heritage has profoundly influenced my approach to public service, instilling in me a strong sense of community, collective well-being, and resilience. Growing up, my family and I were actively involved in local initiatives to feed our community, often sharing what we had with others. These early experiences taught me the importance of supporting those around you and ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need.
Has your work impacted Hispanic or Latino communities? My work in public health preparedness and response has had a broad impact, including multiple types of communities in Hawaii, including Latin American and other Asian-Pacific communities like Filipinos. Now that I’m back on the mainland, I’m eager to apply the lessons I’ve learned to support all communities, ensuring that our exercises and planning efforts are inclusive and tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse populations. By doing so, we help build a more resilient and equitable public health system, particularly for communities that may face additional barriers during emergencies, such as language or access to resources.
