The Hispanic Women’s Council (HWC) is a nonprofit, intergenerational organization established in 1988 to promote, support, and create opportunities for Hispanic women. HWC’s members are from all walks of life and range in age from 20 to 90. The activities they undertake promote networking, education, and cultural preservation. They also place emphasis on celebrating and documenting the achievements of Hispanic women. The HWC established the Scholarship and Mentorship Program in 2007, creating a legacy of educating Hispanic women, moving them into professions and enabling them to become valuable leaders in the community. Marissa Elías, MPH, was an HWC scholar while finishing graduate school before joining PIRE in August 2018. In April 2021, Marissa was elected HWC Council President.
At PIRE, Marissa is part of the state-level evaluation team for several federally funded grants through New Mexico Human Services Department Office of Substance Abuse and Prevention (OSAP) that aim to reduce underage and adult drinking, prescription painkiller misuse, and overdose-related deaths. Marissais a fluent and native Spanish speaker; has been heavily involved in the Spanish translation of data collection tools, instruments, and other materials for multiple projects at PIRE; and has a passion for working with and supporting communities.
Congratulations, Marissa, on your new appointment!
