“The moment we choose to love we begin to move against domination, against oppression. The moment we choose to love we begin to move towards freedom ,to act in ways that liberate ourselves and others.”

– bell hooks

Alex is the Policy Analyst at UNE Colorado, where they use policy analysis and communications to advocate for equitable policy solutions that build UNE’s power to ensure that our social, economic and political systems work for all, no exceptions.

Many of Alex’s family members came to the United States during the 20th century from modern-day Armenia and Greece to escape violence and build a life for her family. While her family faced many challenges when they arrived here due to xenophobia, they also enjoyed many successes. By the time Alex was growing up, her family was able to provide her with secure housing in a community with well-funded public schools. When Alex started volunteering in college with the Latinx immigrant community in Charlottesville, Virginia, they realized that many communities with marginalized identities do not have access to the same resources that they grew up with.

Alex believes that our political and economic systems have the potential to do great things, but are not working for everyone. She believes that the most impactful policies are grounded in and led by the community.

After serving in various direct service roles with impacted community members, Alex decided to bring their skills and gifts to UNE so they could be a part of building systems, change, and structural reforms that will create more justice for all.

Alex brings years of practical and professional experience breaking down complex systems and processes into accessible, digestible and actionable formats. She previously worked in the education and mental health sectors directly with immigrant and first-generation youth and their families, where she learned to understand each person she encounters holistically, honoring their experiences, backgrounds and culture.

Alex looks forward to deepening their understanding of the mechanisms for systemic change employed by UNE at the local level. She is thrilled to work as part of a team that uplifts the ideas, desires and needs of community members to develop solutions to their most urgent and deeply felt issues.