Hi, my name is Lourdes! I was born in Arequipa, Peru and moved to Charlotte, NC when I was 7 with my family. Growing up in Charlotte, my family greatly benefited from community programs focused on promoting higher education for first generation students. Being able to have these kinds of resources so easily available made me want to advocate for families who did not have the same kind of access. I graduated with a B.S. in Political Science from Appalachian State University, where my interest in educational equity deepened. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with families and students in both Charlotte and Greensboro.

I’m currently a Master’s student in Project Management at Wake Forest University and in my free time I love being outdoors. I like going to the White Water Center, training for races with running clubs, spending time with my friends, family and two cats I share with my sister, Wednesday and Hermoine, and going to Yunta for their ceviche A LOT. I’m so excited to be a part of the OurBridge team, meet all the families and students that make this place so vibrant, and make a meaningful impact in our community this year.

How long with ourBRIDGE? This is my first year with ourBRIDGE.

What does your role entail? I connect families to resources, provide advocacy and offer different types of support.

Favorite Lerd Value and Why? My favorite LERD Value is Diversity because whether it’s through travel or working with a young student who teaches you a word in their native language, it’s very special to connect with people through even the smallest of gestures that mean a lot to them and makes them feel seen, respected and welcomed by you.