Connie is a first-generation Latina, daughter of Mexican Immigrants, wife and mother of two, born and raised in Boyle Heights. Connie recently defended her dissertation, a mixed methods study assessing the role civic engagement might have on protecting Latino communities against exposure to poor air pollution.
The goal of the study is to develop a comprehensive understanding of factors that impact civic engagement among Latino residents. Connie used quantitative methods to examine exposure to air pollution among Latino residents in California, as well as potential buffers for that exposure. Through a partnership with Legacy LA, a local non-profit in Boyle Heights, Connie conducted key informant interviews and focus groups to understand barriers and facilitators that impact civic engagement among Latino residents on issues relevant to air pollution. Connie obtained her doctorate from UCI’s Program in Public Health, department of Population Health and Disease Prevention, her Master’s in Public Health from Cal State Fullerton and Bachelors of Science from UCLA.
Mentors:
Paula Cizmar
Professor of Theatre Practice in Dramatic Writing
Co-director, Institute for Theatre and Social Change
Dr. Jill Johnston
Associate Professor and Director in the Division of Environmental Health
Dr. Manuel Pastor
Distinguished Professor of Sociology and American Studies & Ethnicity
Turpanjian Chair in Civil Society and Social Change
Director, Equity Research Institute