Ana Velázquez (she/hers/ella) is the Director of Equity and Justice Education at Northern Illinois University. Upon graduating from Bradley University with a Bachelor of Science in Community Wellness and Health, Ana went on to complete her Master of Science in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Northern Illinois University. Ana has emerged as a thoughtful leader in DEIB initiatives and supports NIU's first-generation, Hispanic-Serving Institution strategic planning, programming and assessment, while also leading the Social Justice Education department and overseeing the Indigenous and Native American student support. Ana centers her work around curriculum, staff development, and strategic planning, particularly in relation to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging through a social justice lens. Moreover, her experiences have provided her with the skills to lead teams and be an effective change agent. She's passionate about supporting first-gen students in their collegiate experience but also in preparation for graduation and life after. She serves on her alma mater Latino Alumni Board to establish relationships among students and alumni and be a resource for emerging adults transitioning into their first professional job. Ana is a proud bilingual, first-generation Latina from a mixed-status household and tía of one niece and three nephews. Ana enjoys walks with her dog, Polvorón, cross-stitching, nail artistry, and indulging in reality TV in her downtime.