This month, we would like to highlight one of Alsame’s most passionate and longstanding champions, Dr. Vanessa Reynolds. It is fitting that this post comes right after International Women’s Day (March 8th). We had an opportunity to sit down with Dr. Reynolds to learn more about her, what drives her, and get insight into where she is going. We also learned about an exciting career change that has her continuing to follow one of her passions. Thank you to Alsame Board Member Leo Ornelas for conducting the interview. Check it out below!

Dr. Reynolds, please tell us about yourself.
I was born in Salvatierra, Guanajuato, Mexico, and raised in Maravatio del Encinal. I moved to Detroit, MI, at the age of 11 with my parents (Alfredo and Rosalina Nava) and siblings (Alfredo, Betty, Yazmin, and Edgar). I currently live in Brownstown, MI, with my beautiful and amazing family, my husband of almost 18 years, Louis, and our three children – Alfonso (15), Antonio (13), and Adelaida (11).

I graduated from Western International High School in Southwest Detroit and attained all my post-secondary degrees from Wayne State University (WSU). I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and, most recently, a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. I am a first-generation college graduate and the first one in my family to obtain a doctoral degree.

I have the pleasure of serving as an Undergraduate Admissions Counselor at Wayne State University. One of my highest objectives in my role is to provide educational opportunities and empower high school students across the Metro Detroit area and across Michigan to pursue higher education. My dedication to this cause not only benefits individual students but also contributes to the overall advancement of society by fostering a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce. I am committed to empowering students and advancing educational opportunities, motivated by my alma mater’s mission to prepare a diverse student body to thrive.

How long have you been with Alsame?
I joined Alsame in January 2004. I remember getting a call from my colega Norman Bent, “Vanessa, nos vamos a East Lansing para la junta de Alsame en MSU.” This was not a question, mi gente, but coming from Norman, I knew it was a good thing. After attending my first Alsame meeting, I was convinced I wanted to be part of this work as an active member. A few months later, I got another call from Norman telling me he nominated me for secretary. Over the past two decades, I have served on the board in various capacities. My long-time commitment to Alsame extends beyond our mission to include fostering a board and members who share in this vital work. I appreciate the opportunity to come together with colleagues across the state with diverse backgrounds. Becoming an active member, joining the executive board, and being committed to Alsame’s work have been very rewarding.

What positions have you held with Alsame?
Secretary, Co-Chair, Chair, Vice-Chair, and currently serving as a Co-Chair once again with Salvador Lopez.

What are some of the proudest accomplishments with Alsame?
Alsame has done so much over the years. However, I will highlight some of the things that have been the most impactful. We are unique when it comes to our membership representation; we bring together Latino and non-Latino professionals from various higher education institutions and community partners across the state to a space where we strategize ways to provide access to higher education for our Latino youth and share best practices to support this student population. Alsame has created a space for sharing and implementing innovation strategies and best practices. By leveraging the expertise and resources of professionals from various backgrounds, Alsame develops comprehensive solutions and initiatives that have a meaningful and lasting impact on the communities we serve.

By collaborating with higher education institutions across the state, Alsame can offer an annual Latino Youth Conference. Our conference has become a beacon of empowerment and opportunity. It provides a platform for thousands of Latino and non-Latino students across the state to explore diverse post-secondary options and cultivate connections with local and national professionals who inspire them to continue their educational journey. The conference’s ability to bring together students from different backgrounds underscores its role in promoting inclusivity and diversity within the academic sphere. Overall, the conference is a testament to Alsame’s commitment to support and uplift Latino youth in Michigan.

The Alsame scholarship, supported by its members and generous sponsors, is evidence of its commitment to providing tangible support to Latino youth pursuing higher education. Alsame has awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships to high school seniors pursuing college degrees at Michigan institutions. Some of the recipients have been DACA and undocumented students with tremendous financial need. Moreover, Alsame’s impact is multifaceted and profound. Over 50 years, the organization has played a pivotal role in shaping its members into exemplary professionals, providing inspiration and support to Latino youth as they navigate post-secondary education, and serving as dedicated advocates for students and communities alike.

Where do you see Alsame going into 2024 and beyond? 
The students we serve will continue to guide Alsame in the right direction. Our future generation of students are the leaders of tomorrow, and their trajectory will be Alsame’s direction as we support, encourage, educate, inspire, and empower them to be their best version. Alsame is not only shaping individual lives but also contributing to the future success and prosperity of communities as a whole. As Alsame leaders, we will continue cultivating a diverse membership and making stronger connections with the communities we sincerely care for.

Eliminating financial barriers and providing college access for our Latino youth will continue to be one of Alsame’s highest priorities. As the leaders of Alsame, Salvador and I have a vision to continue advancing the organization’s goals and ensuring its success. As a non-profit organization run by a volunteer working board, it’s hard to do everything we want to do. One of our goals is to find funding to provide paid operational support for the board’s future continued success. Moreover, we will continue fostering community and collaboration among board members and members statewide. I am sure that Alsame will continue to drive positive change for years to come, making a lasting impact on the educational landscape and the lives of countless students.

Favorite meal?
I am not picky when it comes to food, but one of my favorite meals is mole, and when you have leftovers, you make enchiladas de mole the next day. Fun fact: This is also my Mom’s, Mami Bita’s, and Tia Lupe’s favorite meal.

Favorite place traveled to?
Mexico, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, Washington D.C., and most recently, New York

Coffee or tea?
100% Coffee

iPhone or Android? 
Surprisingly to some, Android

Is there anything else you would like to add? 
Yes, I would like to add that I am grateful and beyond blessed to be part of this amazing organization. Being part of Alsame has had a profound impact on both my professional and personal growth. Alsame has helped shape me into the leader I am today. In addition, it has given me the opportunity to serve and uplift our community and provided me with a space to embrace my culture while gaining my Alsame familia.

Lastly, I would like to share some exciting news. After 20 years at Wayne State University, I will soon leave my position as Undergraduate Admissions Counselor at my alma mater to serve as Director of College Admissions and Success for the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative (MiHC). MiHC focuses on Latinos, the nation’s fastest-growing and largest minority group, and they are working to break the cycle of Hispanic poverty through education and early career program support. MiHC helps Michigan Hispanic students and young professionals navigate the complexity of college access through early careers by providing support, resources, and opportunities.

As I embark on this new chapter in my professional journey, I will carry the resilience, strength, and dedication that has defined my time at WSU. I am thrilled about this amazing opportunity and certain that Alsame and MiHC will collaborate to continue to foster partnerships and leverage collective efforts to create an even greater impact on Michigan’s Latino communities.

¡Muchas Gracias! Leo Ornelas-Martinez, for doing this Alsame Success Series; I appreciate the opportunity to highlight my journey. I will ALWAYS be WARRIOR STRONG!