As a proud first generation daughter of Guatemalan immigrants, Marlen Godinez (She/her/hers) 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 worked as a Spanish Translator/ Interpreter & Liaison within a public school district in Massachusetts. She focused the majority of her time assisting LEP (Limited English Proficient) families & students establish efficient communication and welcoming them to the district. Marlen utilizes her learned experiences within academia and the community to provide resources to other first generation students & families that are paving their way, especially for young adults that have migrated to the United States. Having the privilege to serve as a Coordinator for the Welcome Center at WPY, Marlen works to ensure that those new to the Waltham community establish themselves with the learnings of advocacy and educational resources. Marlen is a coffee lover who enjoys spending time with her family, capturing moments with her camera and of course visiting Guatemala.