Diana Avalos

Diana Avalos (She/Her/Ella) is a first-generation college student who graduated with her Bachelor's degree in International Relations from UC Davis and then her Master’s degree in Public Administration from Stanislaus State. Her lived experiences as lantinx woman in America instilled her passion for public service. Diana joined the Peace Corps where she cultivated life-long friendships in the rural impoverished communities of the Dominican Republic. Her experience in the Peace Corps reinforced her compassion for helping others and solidified her career path towards public service.

While earning her Master’s degree, Diana became the governmental relations coordinator at Stanislaus State and led several advocacy campaigns to increase student services. Her efforts along with other student leaders led the voice of change for over 500,000 students in the California State University System; advocating for a more equitable, affordable, and sustainable college experience. In addition, her advocacy resulted in a room being dedicated to graduate students in the newly remodeled library at the university. She also co-founded Eco Warriors, one of the first sustainability clubs on campus that has since doubled in size and established working relationships within campus communities.

Diana’s passion for service is amplified in her dedication to her volunteer work. She has been volunteering with the same refugee family from Afghanistan since 2016 and has helped the family transition into the community through cultural immersion, educational support, and youth mentoring.

Her heart genuinely loves helping others, and she is determined to use her skills to help bridge the inequity gaps that are based in institutionalized barriers. Diana is ready to dedicate her career to public service.

As a NextGen on Board Fellow, Diana is serving a two-year term on the Modesto Children’s Museum’s Board of Directors beginning July 2021.