Hola, I'm Dra. Lopez!

About me:

My story is one of resilience, determination, and overcoming obstacles to achieve what many might have thought impossible.

Growing up in San Antonio, Texas, I faced significant challenges. As a teen mom and high school dropout, it felt like the world was set on placing obstacles in my path. I didn’t have the privilege of following a traditional route, and at times, the weight of my circumstances seemed insurmountable. But even in those moments, I was determined not to let my situation define me.

I was driven to create a better life for myself and my children. Against all odds, I earned not one, not two, but three degrees—one of them a PhD in Leadership Studies.

Along the way, I encountered systemic barriers that sought to limit my success: cultural expectations, financial struggles, and the subtle yet overt challenges that Latinas often face in academia and professional spaces. I encountered doubts from others and within myself but my faith, commitment to family, and the future I wanted to create never wavered.

For 19 years, I’ve dedicated my career to serving vulnerable and underrepresented populations, empowering others to overcome life’s challenges. Through leadership roles in for-profit and nonprofit organizations, I’ve worked to create opportunities for those who often have none, ensuring everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

As I navigated higher education, I began to see the unique challenges Latinas face—challenges often overlooked or misunderstood. I knew that with my experience, knowledge, and position, I had the power to create opportunities for other Latinas and help them overcome the same barriers I once faced.

My personal journey has shaped my purpose, and I’m passionate about offering mentorship, coaching, and leadership development that can help Latinas build the future they deserve. Giving back is at the heart of all I do. As a Hermana with Soy Latina, I mentor high school Latinas, guiding them to embrace their strengths, build self-confidence, and positively impact their communities. Watching these future leaders grow is one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

Through my work with the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas (HWNT), I’ve led initiatives like the “Empowering Doctoral Dreams: Latinas Breaking through Barriers” panel, amplifying Latina voices and celebrating our resilience. I’m also proud to serve on nonprofit boards and stay active in organizations championing equity and representation.

Through NextLevel Mujeres, I work to empower Latinas at every stage of their journey, providing personalized coaching, leadership development, and the support they need to overcome challenges. But it’s not just about breaking barriers—it’s about empowering us to step into our full potential with confidence, resilience, and the unwavering belief that we belong at the table, making meaningful contributions in every field.

My story proves that no matter where you start or how long it takes, you can achieve great things. Together, we’ll not only overcome barriers—we’ll transform them into stepping stones, unlocking the potential that’s already within you.

Let’s rise together!