Sonoma State University

Mariana G. Martinez

Headshot of Mariana

Pronouns: 

She/Her/Ella

Sonoma State Grad Year:

2003

Degrees:

Chicano and Latino Studies, B.A.

Spanish, B.A.

What is your current position and/or the industry you work in?

Director, Curriculum and Programs, Infinite Learning and Resource Center; Consultant, MGM PhD Consulting, LLC

What were your campus involvements at SSU?

During my time at SSU, I was actively involved in several clubs and programs that shaped my academic and personal growth. I was a member of Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan (MEChA), participated in the Raza/Native American Council, and contributed to the Latino Youth Conference. I served as a mentor in the Summer Bridge program and as an Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Peer Mentor. Additionally, I worked with AmeriCorps After-School Scholars and as a student assistant for the Upward Bound Programs.

Returning as staff in the early 2000s, I served as the faculty advisor for MEChA and the Raza/Native American Council. From 2013 to 2018, I became the first advisor for the Undocu-Scholar Coalition and the founding Coordinator for the UndocuResource Center which later evolved into the Dream Center. I helped organize the Undocu5K, mentored students in SQE, and co-founded the Mujeres Activas en Letras y Cambio Social (MALCS) SSU chapter. I also mentored four Koret Scholar research grants, guiding first-generation scholars in their research projects.

How has Sonoma State made an impact in your life today?

The small campus size of SSU allowed me to find my voice and build meaningful relationships with friends and mentors who continue to support me. The close-knit community fostered a sense of belonging and purpose, where I discovered my passion for social justice. The friendships I have made shaped who I am today. The mentors I met encouraged me to pursue a PhD and run a successful campaign—achievements I never imagined as a first-generation college student. I owe much of my success to the empowering community at SSU that continues to inspire me.

What advice would you give to a current student or recent graduate?

One of the most important things we can do is bring others along with us by sharing knowledge and resources about navigating the path to college. Many students are the first in their families to attend college, so our stories can make a real difference in inspiring them to keep going.

At the same time, it’s important to enjoy the college experience. College is a privilege—embrace the moments, make memories, and grow personally. Don’t let the pressure of success overshadow the joy of being there. Balancing ambition with appreciation will benefit both you and those who follow.