I have lived in Washington County since I was five years old. 

I attended McKinley Elementary School, Holy Trinity and then St. Mary’s Academy. I then ventured to the University of San Francisco where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in hospitality management.

[Image description: Felicita cuts a ribbon celebrating a park opening, lots of happy faces]

I worked for 13 years in the nonprofit sector, for critical organizations serving the region. These include Albertina Kerr, Vision Action Network and Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center. 

Over the last several years I have enjoyed the opportunity to more deeply engage in my community.  After identifying a need around Latino Networking for Washington County residents I formed the “Latino Social Hour + Learning Component” group which meets quarterly to network, discuss social justice issues and share resources. (Update: on hold due to COVID-19)

In 2020 I began a new chapter in philanthropy at Northwest Health Foundation (NWHF). NWHF seeks to advance, support, and promote health in Oregon and southwest Washington. One of their core principles: promoting upstream, systemic change through advocacy is often the most effective strategy for improving community health. In my role at NWHF I am responsible for providing strategy, leadership, and implementation in public affairs and communications.

Volunteerism is important to me and I served on the Hillsboro Library from 2016 – 2020. I have served on several Metro Committees including the Community Placemaking Committee (2017-2018), Parks and Nature Stakeholder Committee (2018-2019), the Washington County Local Investment Team (served in 2019 for the 2020 Metro Transportation Bond) and currently serve on the Supportive Housing Services Regional Oversight Committee. This committee makes recommendations to Metro Council to ensure that county investments meet the regional goals and desired outcomes of the regional supportive housing services program approved by voters in May 2020. 

I have been the recipient of several awards including:
– “Grassroots MVP Award,” National Association for Community Health Centers (2020)
– “Fregonese Urban Innovator Award,” presented by Metro Council President L. Peterson (2019)
– “Breaking Barriers Award,” American Association of University Women, Oregon Chapter (2020) 

In my spare time I love to dance and travel and can typically be found supporting candidates I believe in. 

Check out recent my newsletters:
December 2022
October 2022