Her Story
About Adriana
A nonprofit and public service leader, she currently serves as Executive Director of the Watsonville Law Center, where she leads organizational strategy, fundraising, and community legal services focused on expanding access to justice in California’s Central Coast region. Her work emphasizes nonprofit management, equity-centered leadership, and sustainable program development. She also serves as a School Trustee for North Monterey County Unified School District, contributing to education governance, policy oversight, and community engagement to support student success and district improvement initiatives. In addition, she is an Adjunct Faculty Instructor at California State University, Monterey Bay, where she teaches and supports student learningin legal aid and legal systems and related academic areas, while integrating community-based and equity-driven perspectives into higher education. Previously, she held leadership roles at Salud Para La Gente and Familias Con Mas Director, focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and co
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Adriana
01What do you attribute your success to?
Behind every milestone I’ve reached is a network of people who pushed me to be better. I attribute my professional trajectory to three core pillars:
- Family: For providing the foundational work ethic and resilience.
- Mentors: For offering the wisdom and 'course corrections' that accelerated my growth.
- Community: For providing the collaborative environment where ideas turn into impact.
I am a firm believer that we go further when we go together.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was simple: 'Try everything and talk to everyone.'
I’ve built my career on the belief that growth happens at the intersection of curiosity and connection. By saying 'yes' to unconventional projects and prioritizing genuine networking, I’ve been able to expand my skill set far beyond my initial job description. For me, professional development isn't just about climbing a ladder—it’s about building a web of meaningful relationships and diverse experiences who are working to build a better world for all.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To the young women entering the legal field: Stay grounded and trust your seat at the table.
The law can be an intimidating landscape, but my best advice is to never let imposter syndrome silence your voice. You didn't get here by accident; you earned your place through rigor and dedication. Remember that you belong in this space—not just to fit in, but to lead. Stay rooted in your values, lean on your community, and lead with the confidence that your perspective is a vital asset to the profession.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The Challenge: Navigating a male-dominated profession while managing the intense emotional and logistical demands of community-based legal aid. The pressure is high, but the stakes for our communities are higher.
The Opportunity: To bridge the gap between high-level legal strategy and community need. I am committed to lifelong learning and using my platform to uplift others, ensuring that the knowledge I gain is shared with those who need it most.
I believe our biggest opportunity right now lies in diversifying the voices at the table to better reflect and serve our society.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Guided by dignity, humanity, Love and equity—powered by compassion.
I advocate for my community with a heart for service and a commitment to love. I believe that true justice requires compassion for others in their struggle and compassion for ourselves in the journey. This balance allows me to remain grounded, resilient, and deeply invested in the people I serve.
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