Current Position:

As Evidence-Based Practices Manager, Val oversees the annual cycle for Examples of Excelencia, managing the submission and review process, supporting the public announcement of recognized programs, and collaborating on the efforts leading to Celebración de Excelencia. She also serves on cross-functional teams to support the planning and execution of capacity building institutes and related programming focused on evidence-based practices.

Past Experiences:

Val’s career has centered on advocating for students impacted by violence and providing wraparound services that support their retention and graduation. She has held roles at American University and Georgetown University, and most recently led a team at the University of Washington Bothell, offering crisis support to students affected by interpersonal violence. Throughout her career, she has led programs supporting underrepresented students and remains committed to increasing access to resources that help students succeed in college and beyond.

Why are you bringing your talent to Excelencia?

As a former program practitioner, I understand the commitment and energy it takes to serve students and how isolating it can be when that work goes unseen. I joined Excelencia to help change that by elevating the voices of program practitioners who are using evidence-based practices that contribute to student success at their institutions. As a Latina and first-generation college graduate, I’ve experienced how transformative these programs can be. They supported me as a student, and now I’m committed to ensuring others have access to the same opportunities.

How would you describe working at Excelencia?

Working at Excelencia is incredibly rewarding. It’s a place where passionate people come together, all deeply committed to the mission. The culture promotes teamwork, innovation, and a clear sense of purpose, making the work as a whole feel meaningful and impactful. Excelencia is an inspiring space where colleagues and institutions come together with a shared commitment to intentionally SERVE Latino, and all, students.