Rebeca is part of the Community Navigator team serving Arizona and New Mexico. As a Community Navigator, she serves as a bridge between the Latino community, United States Forest Service, and available federal funding to mitigate climate change.

Her journey took a turn driven by her profound love for the outdoors. Transitioning from her role as an aerospace engineer, she embarked on a new path by going back to school and working on projects at the crossroads of community, sustainability, and advocacy.

She graduated from Arizona State University with a master's degree in sustainability solutions and served as an EDF Climate Corps fellow. Rebeca holds additional accomplishments, including a master's degree in space management from the International Space University and a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Arizona. Originally from Puerto Rico, she exchanged the hot and humid climate for the hot and dry landscapes of Arizona.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"I first found out about Hispanic Access through Latino Conservation Week. Seeing people like me enjoy being outside and sharing their conservation efforts was such an encouragement. In 2021, I became the Latino Conservation Week ambassador for Arizona. Experiencing first hand the impact, growth, and positive spotlight on the Latino community through this event motivated me to want to work for Hispanic Access."

In her spare time…

“When I'm not working, I am hiking, planning backpacking trips to the Grand Canyon, or volunteering on the Arizona Trail. Volunteering to maintain trails has allowed me to see much of the state of Arizona and experience its peace and beauty.”

Her favorite book…

“My favorite book is "Heart in the Bony Middle" by Seth Muller, a collection of poetry centered around the Grand Canyon. I return to it repeatedly, drawing inspiration and attempting to grasp the canyon's beauty, history, and the profound sense of awe that lingers long after each hike.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“My mom continues to be a source of inspiration for me. I try to learn as much as possible from her by listening and observing. She makes everyone feel welcome, heard, and understood. She genuinely cares and takes action. My mom serves as a source of encouragement and an example of what a life full of faith and less worry looks like in action.”