Nacida en Mexico and San Jose raised, Karina is a long-standing advocate for social justice, equity, and inclusion. She has worked across the nonprofit, higher education, and public sectors supporting programs that advance equity and create meaningful opportunities. In her free time, she mentors underrepresented college students as they navigate their personal, academic, and professional journeys. As a San Jose State University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies and a Master’s in Public Administration, guided by trust and a collaborative, service-oriented approach, she remains committed to expanding access and reducing barriers to educational and economic opportunity for Latinas.