Her Story
About Maya
Maya Espinal is a healthcare, veterinary, and environmental health professional whose career reflects a deep commitment to advancing the interconnected principles of One Health. With more than a decade of experience spanning healthcare administration, veterinary medicine, biotechnology, public health research, and environmental science, she has built a multidisciplinary career focused on improving systems, outcomes, and education. As the founder of One Health Nexus Foundation, which she established four years ago, Maya leads consulting, research, education, and mentorship initiatives that bridge human, animal, and environmental health. Her work emphasizes data-driven decision-making, organizational leadership, compliance, and workforce development while promoting innovative solutions to complex health challenges.
Throughout her career, Maya has held leadership, research, and operational roles across healthcare and veterinary organizations. She has served as an Assistant Hospital Manager within veterinary healthcare systems, supported emergency and critical care services, led molecular laboratory research and diagnostics, and contributed to conservation and environmental health initiatives. Her research experience includes work with California State University, Long Beach, where she has participated in outcomes measurement, program evaluation, public health informatics, and geospatial health analytics projects. In addition to her operational expertise, she is an educator, coach, and mentor who helps healthcare leaders make informed decisions related to compliance, quality improvement, and organizational performance.
Maya’s academic and professional achievements reflect her dedication to lifelong learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. She holds certifications in Biotechnology and Environmental Research, an Associate degree in Natural Sciences, and a Bachelor's degree from California State University, Long Beach. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Healthcare Informatics with a concentration in Data Analytics at the University of San Diego. Through her consulting practice, university research affiliations, volunteer service, and educational initiatives, Maya continues to champion a vision of integrated health that recognizes the vital connections between people, animals, and the environment. Her mission is to leverage research, education, informatics, and leadership to create healthier communities and sustainable systems for future generations.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Maya
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to not giving up on my mission and to my mentors who have supported and guided me through struggles and doubts.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to not give up on your mission, even when it feels isolating or not popular at the time.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do not get intimidated by your lack of knowledge. Be open-minded, never give up, keep learning from mentors, and stay proactive in learning as science and knowledge constantly evolve.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges are outdated policies and outdated knowledge in textbooks that do not pertain to the current world, creating conflicts when addressing new problems with old playbooks.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Be the change you wish to see in the world. Respect all life including humans, animals, and plants. Plant seeds for the next generation by sharing wisdom and educating people to make choices that improve the world. Value integrity and caring for others in everything we do.
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