Marinez Alvarado Ruiz (She/Her/Ella) serves as the Leadership and Development Coordinator for the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley (LCSV). In this capacity, she spearheads the coordination and implementation of the Engaged Latina Leadership Activist (ELLA) program, fostering trust, connection, and community among ELLAs through strategic leadership and civic engagement initiatives. As an ELLA alumna, Marinez brings a unique blend of firsthand experience and deep personal commitment to her role.

Previously, Marinez served as the Operations and Policy Coordinator at CA EDGE Coalition, contributing significantly to the organization's mission through targeted advocacy in areas such as workforce development and higher education issues. Prior to CA EDGE, Marinez served as a Program Assistant at the Dreamer Resource Center at California State University, Sacramento. There, she provided invaluable resources to students of undocumented and mixed-status backgrounds, supporting their pursuit of higher education goals. Additionally, Marinez served as a policy intern for the Coalition of Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), advocating for the vibrant immigrant community and engaging in crucial conversations on impactful issues such as access to healthcare and education, workers’ rights, and human rights, among others.

Actively involved in the Bay Area community, Marinez serves on boards dedicated to education and mentorship. As a board member for the MetroED Foundation, she passionately advocates for the advancement of career technical education among both high school students and adult learners in Silicon Valley. Her focus involves spearheading fundraising efforts to provide scholarships for adult learners pursuing career technical education, equipping them with skills for high-wage, high-demand occupations. Additionally, Marinez serves on the board of the Catalino Tapia Scholarship Foundation, which offers scholarships and support to first-generation college students from the Bay Area. In this capacity, she also serves as a mentor where she provides invaluable guidance on college and career pathways.

As a proud daughter of immigrants, Marinez places great value on her Mexican heritage. Born and raised in Porterville, CA, she intimately understands the financial and educational barriers faced in her community. Today, she is driven to give back by increasing access to high-quality education and fostering opportunities for thriving in the economy. Her passion lies in helping underserved communities by providing resources, creating connections, offering support, and engaging in impactful advocacy efforts. Marinez is committed to ensuring that others receive the education, skills, knowledge, and support necessary to thrive in today's economy.

Marinez holds a BA in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Public Relations from California State University, Sacramento. Complementing her academic achievements, she has earned certifications in Event Planning and Nonprofit Administration.