Abby Rea Hicks

Abby is a Grant Assistance Navigator with the Community Navigator Program. She is a first-generation Mexican American and a proud native Tejana. Abby strives to support immigrant communities to thrive while fostering inclusivity and empowerment.

She holds a B.S. in Environmental Science with concentrations in Agronomy/Sustainability and Intercultural Studies from Evangel University and a Master’s in Public Affairs from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Abby is a strong believer that education can change the trajectory of a community. Abby draws on her academic foundation in environmental science and public affairs to advocate for environmental justice and empower immigrant communities.

Before joining the Hispanic Access Foundation, Abby served as the Grants and Strategic Planning Coordinator for a community college in southwest Missouri. In her role, she addressed essential student needs and contributed to regional workforce development. Abby has a diverse background in fundraising and non-profit work and currently serves as Political Science adjunct faculty.

Abby remains a staunch advocate for positive change, leveraging her skills to bridge gaps and create opportunities for underserved communities. Through her work, she continues to be a driving force in the pursuit of a more just and inclusive society.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"I work for Hispanic Access because I believe in its mission of empowering and creating opportunities for the Latinx community. Throughout my upbringing, mentors played crucial roles in advocating for me as I pursued an education and had the privilege of living abroad. Joining Hispanic Access allows me to contribute to uplifting Latinx communities across the United States. I am dedicated to bringing other Latinx individuals to the table with me where they can thrive and, in turn, empower their own local communities."

In her spare time…

“In my spare time I enjoy building Lego’s. I am what you would call an AFOL (adult fan of Legos), reading, working with ceramics, playing cozy games on my switch, being involved in the community and spending time with my husband, dogs, and extended families.”

Her favorite book…

“One of my favorite places is the public library where I have found many of my favorite books! A recent fiction favorite is Gods of Jade and Shadow, a few nonfiction favorites are Born a Crime and the Monk of Mokha.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“Many people have been a source of inspiration throughout my life's journey. My parents and in-laws have been some of the most impactful in my life. They embody strength, empathy, kindness and love with fierceness. I consider myself privileged to know them and have them in my life.”