Annika Nuñez

Annika is an ambitious enthusiast for educational and social justice. From early in her academic career she has served the community around her as a supporter, motivator, and mentor. Her journey as a public servant began during her undergraduate term at the University of California, Riverside, where she made her pledge as an AmeriCorps member in partnership with the University Eastside Community Collaborative. She served Riverside’s low socioeconomic population, providing youth with academic assistance in mathematics and participated in several community revitalization projects. On campus she took part in advising housing service providers in the development of policies, and procedures, as well as community and social events as part of the Campus Apartment Resident Association. Annika was also one of the first members of R’Kids, an organization aimed at creating and providing student-parents with resources and support to continue their education at the university. Some of the many achievements that she contributed to are the UCR Student-Parent Grant, UCR Annual Trunk-or-Treat and childcare at the UCR Recreation Center. After graduating with honors from UCR Annika became a Mathematics Intervention Specialist at Options for Youth (OFY), a non-profit public charter school for secondary education. She transitioned from specialist, to intern, to a permanent Mathematics and Physics Instructor, as well as a member of the curriculum development team. Annika enjoys working with youth and volunteers her time organizing and assisting in extra-curricular activities that promote learning in STEM fields as well as the personal development of underprivileged individuals. She has always had a love for problem solving whether it be a math or social problem. Annika has dedicated her life to serving the public and continues to act as an advocate for political and social justice. She dreams of becoming a leader in the public sector where her actions reach well beyond a classroom and improves the lives of countless others.