Veronica was born in Santa Ines Yatzeche, a small indigenous village in the valleys of Oaxaca, Mexico and is tri-lingual. Her native language is Zapoteco. Her family settled in Pacific Grove, CA, where she was brought to live at age two. Veronica’s parents and community worked the fields and currently work in the restaurant and hospitality industry. As an immigrant, Veronica and her family, as well as the rest of her community, faced many challenges, such as poverty, lack of healthcare, and safe housing. Although Veronica grew up in “America”, her parents and family continued to practice their cultural beliefs and customs. At the age of 15, she dropped out of high school and married. Prior to delivering her first child, Veronica decided to go back to school and obtain her High School diploma and GED. In December 2000 she was hired as the first indigenous interpreter for the Monterey County Health Department Public Health Nursing Division. Veronica is adamant that because of the health professionals she encountered and their caring attitudes, compassion, interventions, but most of all encouragement she has been able to break the cycle and statistics piled against people like herself and her community. Veronica worked in Public Health Nursing for 10 years as an interpreter and community service aide and has have been at serving the community at Natividad as a Registered Nurse in Perinatal Services. She currently holds a BSN, PHN and is currently working on a Masters in Nursing Leadership and Management with the goal of obtaining a doctorate and FNP. Veronica appreciates continued learning and teaching and is passionate about working with the underserved, families, community and representing her indigenous community. Veronica currently lives in Pacific Grove with her husband Cirilo and youngest son Brandon who is soon to be college-bound. Veronica and her husband enjoy an active lifestyle, spend time with family and friends, and especially enjoy visiting her oldest son Damean who is currently serving in the military.