“Jess” is a mom of three, technologist, and 'equity innovator' whose work has been featured in The Washington Post, CBS Evening News, ABC Evening News, Good Morning America, Today Show, and more. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she founded an emergency food pantry that serves 10 Gaithersburg school communities, organized 30 food distributions, launched a free student bike program to access free meals, and started a national movement to build desks for low-income students. She was named a Capital One Community Hero, MCCPTA President of the Year, and MCCPTA Family of the Year. Jess also received a Distinguished Service Award from the Board of Education in recognition of her community service during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Jess is the President of the Ridgeview Middle School PTSA, a member of MCPS Family Engagement Advisory Team and Deputy Superintendent Advisory Board, Latino Student Achievement Action Group Parent Co-Chair, and member of the MCCPTA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She was previously named the Jones Lane Elementary School PTA Volunteer of the Year and was awarded the Jaguar for Life Achievement Award for her contributions. She brings 20 years of Latino community volunteer work.