Meet Vera, our August Girl Hero. Since 2012, Vera has been a dedicated member of the Girls on the Run community, serving on our Board of Directors, participating as a 5K Sparkle Runner, attending our annual Limitless Potential Brunch, and giving back as a recurring monthly donor. Her commitment to the Girls on the Run mission has also extended nationally, where she served as an inaugural member of Girls on the Run International’s IDEA Commission from 2020–2023.
A school and child psychologist by training, Vera is a professor in Justice Studies and Women and Gender Studies in Arizona State University’s School of Social Transformation. Much of her research focuses on the experiences of Latina girls and youth, making the Girls on the Run mission a natural connection to both her personal and professional passions.
“This is a fantastic program. I love everything about it, especially its focus on supporting girls,” Vera shared. “The program’s positive impact is evident in the girls who participate and the dedicated volunteers who make GOTR a community gem.”
One of Vera’s favorite GOTR memories is serving as a 5K Sparkle Runner. She and her GOTR girl chatted and shared stories as they made their way through the 5K together. When they crossed the finish line, they were greeted with a smile and big hug from her GOTR girl's mom, who wasn’t able to physically participate in the 5K. “It felt even more rewarding than any race medal,” Vera said.
While Vera would love to coach a GOTR team, her work schedule doesn’t currently allow her to make that commitment. Instead, she found another way to consistently support the program through monthly giving. “I hope my support helps make this wonderful program accessible to all girls, especially those whose families may struggle to afford quality programming outside of school. Access is essential.”
For anyone wondering whether they have enough time or resources to make a difference, Vera’s advice is simple: “Contribute what you can whenever you can. Every cent, every moment, and every effort matters. Get involved and show up in whatever way you can for the organizations and causes you are passionate about.”
Thank you, Vera, for continuing to show up for Girls on the Run and helping make our program accessible to more girls!
