Beatriz has a MA in Women and Gender Studies from Loyola University, over fifteen years grassroots and national organizing experience and a noted track record of experienced grassroots leadership organizing to create a movement for social change.  Beatriz is a cofounder of the National Black Food and Justice Alliance, and was  cofounder and inaugural Director of Organizing and Policy Initiatives at the Brooklyn Food Coalition where she served as chief architect of the coalition's organizing and policy strategies.  Beatriz works tirelessly with community members to build strong coalitions, develop grassroots leadership, and to support campaign development and organizing strategy.   Beatriz serves on the leadership board of Rooted In Community a national network of over 100 youth food and environmental justice organizations and previously served as the Director of the Grassroots Action Network. Beatriz has trained with LittleSis, the Management Center, Feminist Organizing School, the Center for Third World Organizing, Black Organizing for Leadership and Dignity BOLD, Ruckus Society, Social Justice Leadership Institute, People's Institute for Survival and Beyond, and is a CoreAlign Speaking Race to Power Fellow. Her commitment to amplifying the wisdom of the grassroots, and organizing with historically marginalized communities has been marked by her strong leadership and consistent work ethic. Her proudest role is as Momma to a beautifully brilliant 10 year old and a curious and rambunctious 2 year old who both remind her to love out loud laugh often, to share, and to resist!