Returning to campus

Rosalva Hernandez ‘09 joined Metro State in September as the new Director of Community Engagement. Rosalva brings a broad range of experience in community engagement gained through her work at the MN Department of Human Services, the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota, People Serving People, and most recently at Nexus Community Partners to Metro State. In her new role, Rosalva supports on-going community engagement activities like Metro Votes, the Model Legislature, and community engaged learning opportunities for students. Community Engagement is one of four key priorities of the strategic plan, and Rosalva's leadership contributes to reaching our goals.  She shared her thoughts on bringing her expertise to Metro State.  

As an alumna of Metro State, what does it mean to you to now serve as Director of Community Engagement? 

As an alumna of Metro State, returning as Director of Community Engagement is a full-circle moment. My experience here—shaped by the TRIO program, Latine student organization, staff and faculty who poured into me—laid the root system for the work I do today. I come from a small town in Southwest Texas and remain deeply connected to my roots in Coahuila and the Chiapas Highlands in Mexico. My community in Minnesota, Texas, and Mexico enriches my commitment to centering community in all I do. 

What are you most excited about in the upcoming year and why? 

My passion lies in working with families experiencing homelessness, those impacted by incarceration, and programs that support fathers reconnecting with their children. I am passionate about finding rest experiences across our personal, professional and community spaces. 

Who or what inspires your approach to leadership and community building? 

I had the honor of working with organizations such as ROOT (reclaiming our own time), People Serving people, the FATHER project, and NAH (natives against Heroin) over the past few years, organizations which operate at the intersection of many complex issues.  It’s an honor to now serve the institution that once served me—and to continue building spaces where community voice, healing, and impact lead the way.