Brenda Ramirez completed her undergraduate degree at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona where she majored in Biology with an emphasis in Zoology and minored in Chemistry. During her time at Cal Poly Pomona, she was able to gain valuable hands-on experience through her lab classes, allowing her to learn many lab techniques as well as field techniques. Some of her greater accomplishments include conducting independent research that she presented at the North American Ornithological Conference, as well as gaining R skills in data analysis. Now as a Master’s student, Brenda is expanding on the skills she learned as an undergrad and learning new skills, including how to create species distribution models in R, that will be instrumental in her pursuit of working in wildlife conservation. In the future, Brenda hopes to pursue a career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to conserve and protect wildlife.

As Program Manager for the MANO Project, Nina aspires to connect young BIPOC professionals to opportunities in fields where they are underrepresented, giving back to the community she calls family.

Nina grew up just outside of Washington, D.C.—a second-generation immigrant born into a Salvadoran and Cuban home. She graduated from The Catholic University of America with a B.A. in Theater. Nina worked as an artist, educator, and arts administrator for seven years. During that time, she had the pleasure of bringing theater to young audiences on stage and in the classroom. The impact of those experiences on her students inspired her to transition fully to nonprofit work.

Prior to joining Hispanic Access, Nina also worked with the National Park Trust, partnering with public land agencies such as the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife, as well as nonprofit groups, to develop outdoor educational experiences for students in Title I schools across the country.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

“I was very curious about Hispanic Access when I first found out about the organization. I didn't know of any other organizations doing the work that Hispanic Access does to support Latino communities. I reached out to then Deputy Director of Conservation Jennifer Brandt to learn more and was really impressed not only with the mission but the culture of the organization. About a year and a half later a position opened within the MANO Project, and I jumped at the opportunity. Now, here I am!”

In her spare time…

“I've always been inspired by wildlife, and being outdoors is the best medicine for stress. I like to hike and camp when I can, and I volunteer at a local nature center. Rock climbing, yoga, running, and quality time with my dog keeps me healthy and happy. I also have a deep love for theatre and act semi-professionally in local productions.”

Her favorite book…

“My newest favorite is Things in Jars by Jess Kid. My favorite genres are magical realism and gothic horror/mystery/thriller and this book hits all the right notes.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“It’s hard to pick a single person. I'm most inspired by people I talk to every day: family, friends, colleagues. I am surrounded by people who are talented, principled, and work hard. When I am feeling low, I look at how people around me, like me, have their own struggles but are putting a little bit of good into the world every day, and that inspires me.

Pastor Armando Vera visits Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in Texas and shares why it is important to protect our nation's public lands and make your voice heard in conservation.

Pastora Linda Sosa visits Denver's Cheesman Park and shares why it is important to protect our nation's public lands and make your voice heard in conservation.

Pastor Gabriel Araya visits Hemet, California's Simpson Park and shares why it is important to protect our nation's public lands and make your voice heard in conservation.

Pastores Juan & Rocio Almanza visit Nevada's Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and share why it is important to protect our nation's public lands and make your voice heard in conservation.

Pastor Martin Martinez visits California's San Gabriel Mountains and shares why it is important to protect our nation's public lands and make your voice heard in conservation.

Inspired by the poem “I Am Joaquin” by Chicano poet Corky Gonzales, this unique film "I AM CHEO" tells the story of a young boy named Cheo who, from the sights and smells of his abuela’s kitchen, takes a sweeping cinematic journey across the lands that are both his history and his future.

Today, the Senate confirmed New Mexico Rep. Deb Haaland as Secretary for the Department of Interior within the Biden Administration’s Cabinet. In response to the confirmation, Hispanic Access Foundation’s President and CEO Maite Arce released the following statement:

Not only has Rep. Haaland made history by becoming the first Native American to hold the position of a Cabinet Secretary, but she also has a history of championing conservation issues important to Latinos, such as promoting environmental justice, protecting public lands and waters, preserving cultural heritage and addressing the climate crisis. 

Coming Soon