Valery Palacios is a Master of Public Policy student and proud first-generation latinx college graduate, completing her Bachelor’s in Sociology at the University of New Mexico in Spring 2025.

Her experience includes supporting community projects such as VIVA Connects, CHILE, and Healthy Places Healthy People, as well as contributing to the UNM Prevention Resource Center where she learned about adapting and implementing mixed-methods research.

Valery’s sociological perspective fuels her passion for turning observation into action.

With a commitment to public service, she is dedicated to shaping policies that foster social change and inclusive growth.

And is excited to continue expanding her knowledge in areas of public health, policies and sociological aspects in the world with community/national based research and methods.