Significant professional accomplishment: Becoming the first Latina in the history of our state to be appointed deputy secretary. It’s an honor but also a big responsibility to ensure I’m not the last.
Current state of mind: Trying every day — especially in these times — to find moments of optimism and hope.
Passion project: Supporting women’s sports
‘Lightbulb’ moment: The one that set me on my current path happened in the summer of 2018 and was the result of personal things I was experiencing at the time as well as current events happening in our country. I questioned what I was doing with my life and made the scary decision to abandon the path I was on at the time and pivot. Thankfully, it’s worked out so far.
Audacious goal: Win the lottery so I can give my mom everything she’s ever wanted and spend my time traveling and volunteering.
Favorite quote: The Golden Rule
Influential book: The last book I’ve kept thinking about is “Pachinko,” by Min Jin Lee. I think it’s because I could see my own family’s story (I’m first-generation Mexican-American) through the characters in the book.
Favorite TV shows: Anything on Bravo — “Summer House,” “Below Deck” and any of the “Real Housewives” series
Best way to recharge: By going out to dinner, spending time by the ocean, taking a spin class, reading or spending time with friends.
At age 60: Hopefully, living in a world where more people who look like me are in positions of influence and authority.