As a proud first generation daughter of Guatemalan immigrants, Marlen demonstrates love for her culture through her passion for language and solidarity to the Latinx/Hispanic community. A Washington State native, Marlen has called Massachusetts her home since the age of three. Marlen is an alumna of UMass Boston where she earned a B.A. in Latin American & Iberian Studies with a concentration in Translation Studies, minoring as well in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Marlen previously served as a Spanish Translator/Interpreter & Liaison within a public school district in Massachusetts. She focused the majority of her time assisting ELL (English Language Learner) families & students establish efficient communication and welcoming them to the district. Marlen's compassion and dedication to serve the community derives from her own learned experiences seeing the impact it had on her own parents as they navigated a new language, culture and country. Marlen emphasizes the importance of supporting others in their journey, but also paving the way for families and young adults that have migrated to the United States. Having the privilege of serving as a Coordinator of the Welcome Center at WPY, Marlen works diligently to ensure that those new to the Waltham communtiy establish themselves with the learnings of advocacy and educational resources. Marlen is a coffee lover who enjoys spending time with her family, enjoys long drives, visiting new places, capturing memories with her camera and last but not least, having the opportunity of exploring and visiting Guatemala.