I am a first-generation college graduate. I grew up in South Texas with a large extended family of mixed immigration status. I was raised to value family, education and a strong work ethic. Growing up, I spent summer breaks with my family harvesting fruits and vegetables in migrant farmworker camps in the Midwest. By the time I was 2,3 I had earned a bachelor’s degree from Pan American University and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor. I have practiced as a clinician for over 30 years in varying settings, including community mental health, crisis shelters, school social work services and higher education student support services. For the last 13 years, I have held the position of professional counselor and provided mental health services to students on the Dallas College North Lake Campus. I also serve as the Chair of the Dallas College Professional Counselors Council and have led several projects that support the mental health well-being of students, faculty and staff, including Mental Health First Aid, NOVA Crisis Response Team Training, Online Counseling Services for Students and TAO Connect.