People

Zoila was born in El Salvador and moved to Minnesota at age three. Attending a college-preparatory high school on scholarship was pivotal in navigating her academic journey. Zoila's academic path led her to Beloit College, where she earned a BA in psychology and Spanish, and eventually to the University of Minnesota, where she received a PhD in educational psychology. Zoila's career is built on collaboration, data-based decision-making, and systems-level change, fostering inclusivity and ensuring students have access to high-quality services and instruction. In addition to her school psychology and district-level work, Zoila has been a board member of the Florida Association of School Psychologists, serving for nearly a decade, providing direction on state educational initiatives and policies. "As a former Beloit McNair Scholar and U of M McNair advisor, taking on this position brings me full circle. My journey was possible because of TRIO, it significantly changed my trajectory that led me to higher education, and now I am excited to be back, ready to continue the work to positively impact the community where my journey began."