UNLV Harvard LEAD

Executive Board

Nicole Garcia Contreras

Founder, President, and Ambassador

Nicole Garcia-Contreras is a first-generation college student in her fourth year at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Leadership and Development. In 2024, she founded the UNLV Harvard LEAD Chapter to create new pathways for Latina students to explore opportunities beyond their campus and experience prestigious institutions firsthand. Nicole is deeply passionate about philanthropy, fundraising, and donor relations. After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to pursue a graduate degree in Public Administration with a concentration in nonprofit management.

Carol Daguer

Vice President, and Ambassador

Carol is a second-year Mechanical Engineering student and the first in her family to pursue a STEM degree in the U.S. She has been recognized as a HACU Scholar, received the Barbara Agonia Empowerment Scholarship, and is a Building Hope Scholar through the Women in Building Chapter of Southern Nevada. Additionally, she serves as Vice President and is a Harvard LEAD Ambassador, working with Harvard Latinas to recruit members for the annual LEAD Conference.

Barbara Orendain Loza

Treasurer

Barbara is a dedicated second-year Mechanical Engineering student with a strong passion for contributing to the public works sector within the Las Vegas community. Upon graduation, she aims to attain her Professional Engineer (PE) license, further enhancing her qualifications and commitment to excellence in engineering.

Frida Macedo

Secretary

Frida Macedo is a second-year Biology major at UNLV and serves as the secretary for the UNLV Harvard Lead Chapter. With her bachelor's degree Biology, she plans to apply to medical school with the goal of becoming a surgeon. Frida is dedicated to her academic pursuits and is actively involved in leadership opportunities that enhance her skills and knowledge in the field of medicine.

Jenyfer Munoz Lopez

Grad Coordinator

Jenyfer graduated in Spring 2025 with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work and is now pursuing her Master's in Social Work at UNLV, focusing on Trauma-Informed Practice. As the first in her family to pursue a graduate degree, she exemplifies dedication and resilience. Jenyfer is about supporting the Latinx community in Las Vegas, particularly in mental health, and is committed to providing culturally responsive care as a future Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Currently she serves as a practicum student at Fuente Vida Mental Health Services, gaining valuable experience to uplift her community.

Bryana Montes Perez

Social Media Coordinator

Bryana is a committed second-year Criminal Justice student, actively working towards her bachelor's degree in the field. After graduation, she plans to attend law school to earn her law degree and pursue a career as a Criminal Defense Attorney.

Valeria Falcon

Social Media Coordinator

Valeria is currently a sophomore and is pursuing a degree in Nursing. After graduating, Valeria aspires to become a Pediatric Oncology Nurse, where she hopes to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families.