Irma Gonzalez immigrated to the United States as a newlywed at the age of 15. Throughout her seven-year marriage, she struggled to break the cycle of domestic violence. The language barrier limited her employment and educational options, but determined to improve her life, she taught herself English. Education became the path to a better life for her and her children.

Irma is pursuing a master’s in social work at California State University, Northridge. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA while working full time for Tri-Counties Regional Center, supporting adults with developmental disabilities. Irma is a member of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, Beta Rho Tau Chapter, Alpha Tau California Sociology Honor Society Chapter, and CSUN Social Work Society. She is invested in social justice and volunteers her time advocating for underrepresented populations through community capacity building.

Irma plans to obtain her license in social work to continue serving the community by advocating for human rights.