Nikita L. Valencia, MPH

Pronouns: She/ElLa Series
Founder & Executive Director

Nikita L. Valencia is a dedicated, DE&I-certified public health professional and a Doctoral student at Salve Regina University. She holds both undergraduate and master’s degrees in Public Health and is a distinguished member of the National Society of Leadership and Success as well as the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.

Passionate about fostering identity-conscious leadership, Mrs. Valencia believes that leadership is not confined to titles but extends across all levels of an organization. Her career has been dedicated to advancing equity through education and culturally attuned programs, with a particular focus on underserved and marginalized populations. With expertise in holistic advising, data-informed programming, and education, she designs and implements initiatives that drive meaningful impact and sustainable success.

Rooted in a deep understanding of intersectionality, Mrs. Valencia’s work is a testament to her commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (D.E.I.B.). Through strategic innovation and professional development, she collaborates seamlessly with colleagues and stakeholders to create inclusive, supportive learning environments. Her advocacy extends beyond institutional frameworks, championing systemic change and fostering positive representation across all sectors of society.

Karina N. Valencia, Esq.

Pronouns: She/They
Co-Fouder & President of the Board of Directors

Karina N. Valencia is an accomplished attorney and co-founder of FR Pride, passionately advocating for marginalized communities through her diverse legal practice. She has represented criminal defendants, championed the rights of crime victims, and provided critical legal support to immigrants facing deportation. As a first-generation immigrant herself, Attorney Valencia draws strength from her roots, crediting her fluency in both Spanish and Portuguese to her parents' influence.

A proud graduate of Roger Williams University, School of Law, Attorney Valencia's journey reflects the resilience and courage often required of LGBTQIA individuals. Her experiences navigating life while closeted deeply impacted her educational path, fueling her determination to achieve multiple degrees in Audio Engineering and Business Administration. She also served with distinction as a Military Police Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve, further honing her leadership skills and dedication to service.

Through her legal work and advocacy, Attorney Valencia continues to fight for justice and equality, driven by a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive community for all.

Roberto Gonzalez

Pronouns: He Series
Director of Strategic Initiatives

Roberto Gonzalez is the Executive Director and Founder of STEAM Box.  STEAM Box develops Scientific and Technology- based programming around the passions and interests of the STEAM Box student body.  The youth at STEAM Box have developed aerial drones, arcade machines, websites, apps, special effects videos, and sent cameras to space.  It has become common for youth to leave STEAM Box with excellent college placement, scholarships, and careers at Technological juggernauts like PLEX, GOOGLE, and NASA.

Roberto designed STEAM Box to be a portable installation where youth can collaborate with the community and learn science through projects based around their own passions. He is not only the founder of STEAM Box, but continues to actively facilitate every day with the youth.  STEAM Box holds the #1 Education Podcast in the world, is a RI Tech 10 Winner, National Samsung Solve For Tomorrow Winner, Apple Distinguished Educator, and PBS Digital Innovator, Henry Ford’s Innovation Nation Teacher, and Metcalf Community Justice Award winner. His TED Talk can be seen here.