Her Story
About Ruby
I am a first generation college graduate who pursued teaching with an endorsement in cultural and linguistic diverse learning. I taught Spanish to middle school students for six years before leaving education in 2020 due to COVID and family relocation. I then entered nonprofit work in emergency housing services serving minority communities in Colorado. At the Community Economic Defense Project, I built programs from scratch including a housing counseling program that became nationally certified, and oversaw teams in homeowner programs, eviction prevention, and resource navigation across Denver, Colorado Springs, and other areas. I recently left the role to focus on my son's medical needs but aspire to return to education as a principal someday.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ruby
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family, especially my parents who supported me from day one, worked hard, and gave their daughters opportunities in a new country.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My mentor Maria Salazar advised me to remain curious and not close doors too fast on myself because I am evolving and ever-changing. Keep doors wide open for new possibilities as my identity grows.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Find a mentor. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Representation matters, so connect with someone you identify with, build a relationship, and lean into mentorship because it makes a whole difference.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
In the nonprofit realm, funding cuts are devastating as they lead to programs vanishing and employment cuts, making it hard to stay afloat while serving people.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Community is everything. Come back to your community and give, as I learned from Greenhouse Scholars. Always be part of your community because you get more out of yourself and grow when tied to it.
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