Current Staff and Research Analysts
Meet our CLAPR staff and research analysts! Interested in hiring? Connect with our talented team and discover how our researchers can support your organization's goals.
Amanda Obregon Compean
Research Analyst
Bachelor of Science, Data Science
I am a first generation Mexican student at Arizona State University studying Data Science. I am passionate about advancing research that supports and empowers Latino communities through data-driven insights. I look forward to expanding my skills in data analysis not just to understand trends, but to support research that creates meaningful change and promotes equity. I am excited to join CLAPR and be a part of projects that help ensure the public better understands how policy and governance shape our everyday lives.
Jonathan Rosales
Center Marketing Director
Preferred name: Rosales
Bachelor of Science, Political Science
I am Rosales, a Political Science major minoring in Spanish. I joined CLAPR because of my strong interest in political research and the opportunity to support and promote an incredible organization through media marketing. My long-term goal is to attend law school and pursue a career as an attorney. As a first-generation student and part of the minority, I hope to be someone others can look up to, including my family and future generations, and to show that success is possible despite the challenges we may face.
Mariana Rojas Ribero
Research Analyst
Bachelor of Science, Finance and Supply Chain Management
I am a Colombian student at Arizona State University studying Finance and Supply Chain Management with a minor in Political Science. As a bilingual learner, I am passionate about making information accessible, supporting inclusive research, and fostering Latino civic engagement through community-centered work and cross-cultural communication.
Maria Blandon
Research Analyst
Bachelor of Science, Political Science
My passion for politics began on the streets of Nicaragua, where I spent the first 16 years of my life. I was deeply influenced by the protests and resistance against the country’s dictatorship—experiences that opened my eyes to the power of civic engagement. After moving to the United States, I observed the differences in political systems, public awareness, and access to civic participation. At the Center for Latino/a and American Politics, I view research not just as a tool for analysis, but as a form of advocacy. Through data, storytelling, and political inquiry, I aim to elevate the voices of historically marginalized groups, build bridges across communities, and spread awareness about the issues that impact us all.
Andrea Borbon
Research Analyst
PhD Candidate
I care deeply about Latino and Latin American politics – especially how they impact immigration and identity politics. My research is focused on understanding the behavior and beliefs of underrepresented groups in order to create more equitable and inclusive policy solutions. As someone from a small border town, I have seen firsthand the challenges faced by migrant communities and the way their stories are often left out of political debates. Studying Latino politics helps build a more complete picture of who contributes to our economy, society, and democracy. I’m proud to be part of CLAPR and excited to continue this vital work.
Jacob Gallegos
Research Analyst
PhD Candidate
I am broadly interested in American Political Development and how these dynamics interact to affect marginalized communities. I am excited to join CLAPR for the wonderful resources and community they provide. Latino politics is particularly important to me because it is inseparable from the broader context of American politics. I look forward to contributing to this research and making a meaningful impact on our understanding of Latino political engagement.
Marcel Glover
Research Analyst
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
I am a first-generation college student from Arizona studying Political Science at ASU, with a focus on immigration policy, Latinx health equity, and the civic structures that shape public access. My work with the Center for Latinx and American Politics Research (CLAPR) includes co-authoring policy briefs on immigration, healthcare, and environmental risk, translating complex data into clear, public-facing insights. At CLAPR, I have built skills in research, writing, and policy evaluation while deepening my commitment to equity and civic participation. I hope to pursue a career in public service, where I can support more inclusive and accountable institutions through education, policy, and community engagement.
Sophiya Gyanwali
Research Analyst
PhD in Geographic Information Science (GIS)
I am a social scientist and human geographer specializing in social vulnerability, urban development, and environmental justice in the context of flooding. At CLAPR, my work bridges environmental research and political science to better understand how flooding impacts Latino communities in the U.S. My current project examines racial disparities in flood vulnerability and response, using surveys to highlight how the Latino population experiences and perceives natural hazards differently. While my work with CLAPR specifically focuses on Latino communities, my dissertation research more broadly examines social vulnerability through indicators such as race/ethnicity, income, and other structural inequities. With a background in geography and a deep commitment to social equity, I focus on amplifying the voices of communities that are often excluded from disaster planning and public discourse. My broader research interests center on environmental justice, particularly in the context of climate-related risks and marginalized populations.
Jazmin Jimenez
Research Analyst
PhD Candidate
I am a first-generation American from Riverside, California, and a proud member of the Latino community. My academic and personal journey has led me to focus on political sentiment and public policy affecting Latinx communities in the U.S. Through CLAPR, I’ve been able to work alongside passionate peers on research related to Latino political engagement and civic participation. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how policy shapes our communities and strengthened my commitment to fostering political interest and long-term change.
Jordin Tafoya
Research Analyst
PhD Candidate
I am a researcher focused on strategic political repression and how marginalized communities respond through representation, organization, and mobilization. As part of CLAPR, I explored Latino politics as a vital—yet often overlooked—aspect of the U.S. political system. This experience allowed me to contribute to research that deepens our understanding of political advocacy and equity. I’m grateful to be part of a community committed to uplifting underrepresented voices and creating meaningful change.
Alumni
Meet CLAPR alumni and see where their research, advocacy, and professional work have taken them.
Erica Marie Rivera Maglalang
CLAPR Alum
Master’s student in International Affairs and Leadership at Arizona State University
I am a Master’s student in International Affairs and Leadership at Arizona State University. After graduating Summa Cum Laude with dual bachelor’s degrees, I have held leadership and research roles at ASU and interned with the McCain Institute. I aspire to a career in diplomacy, advancing international cooperation through public service and leadership.
Christopher Yearout
CLAPR Alum
Research-focused analyst | Large-scale social science research at Arizona State University
I am a research-focused analyst passionate about learning, problem-solving, and turning complex information into actionable insights. Through large-scale social science research at Arizona State University, I have developed expertise in data analysis, research, written communication, and project coordination. I enjoy tackling complex challenges and contributing to thoughtful, evidence-based solutions. I also work across multilingual environments with professional proficiency in Spanish and conversational proficiency in Portuguese.
Leo Perez
CLAPR Alum
Arizona State University, Political Science
Leonardo Perez, a CLAPR alum and recent graduate of Arizona State University with a degree in Political Science, is now serving in a key role at the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office. As a Legislative Intern at the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office, Leo Perez supports the legislative affairs team by tracking and analyzing proposed legislation that impacts the office’s operations. His responsibilities include drafting policy briefs, attending committee hearings, and assisting with communications between the office and key legislative stakeholders. Leo brings his background in political science and data analysis to the role, continuing his commitment to public service and civic engagement. As a student, Leo worked with ASU Admission Services, helping enroll thousands of students and using data to inform admissions decisions and improve institutional outcomes. His time at ASU and with CLAPR sparked his passion for addressing barriers in higher education, affordable housing, and Latino political representation. Through CLAPR, Leo contributed to impactful projects using survey data analysis and visual presentation tools to bring attention to the evolving needs of Arizona’s Latino communities.
Nathalya Galvez
CLAPR Alum
First-generation Latina | Latino political participation and voting rights
A first-generation Latina passionate about bridging policy and civic engagement. Nathalya has worked with Aliento, CLAPR, and UCLA Law to champion equitable policies for underrepresented communities. Her research focuses on Latino political participation and voting rights, with a long-term goal of pursuing law and advocacy. Key Experiences: Pre-law fellow at UCLA School of Law Member, Aliento Youth Leadership Council Research Analyst, CLAPR Fellow, Maricopa County Elections Division County Election Admin Fellow, Arizona Secretary of State Honors Thesis on Latino political engagement and social media Inducted into Phi Beta Kappa Volunteer, Univision’s “Vota Conmigo” campaign Advocate, Aliento Votes (Prop 314 opposition)
Angel Martinez
CLAPR Alum
First-generation college graduate from Arizona | Immigration, housing, and climate justice
Angel Martinez is a CLAPR alum and proud first-generation college graduate from Arizona, raised by two Mexican immigrant parents. His work centers on immigration, housing, and climate justice key issues shaping the future of Latino communities. During his time at CLAPR, Angel contributed to research focused on the intersections of policy, equity, and lived experience across the Southwest. He credits CLAPR and Dr. Pedraza for empowering his voice as a researcher and community advocate. Angel continues to approach policy through the lens of those most impacted by systemic inequality.
Alyssa Bickle
CLAPR Alum
First-generation college graduate | Journalism and policy research
Alyssa Bickle, a CLAPR alum and first-generation college graduate, brings a powerful combination of journalism and policy research to her work addressing systemic inequities. Her research interests lie at the intersection of housing, education, healthcare, and their impact on marginalized communities. As a journalist, Alyssa has written for outlets including The Copper Courier, The State Press, and the Mesa Daily Independent, reporting on issues affecting underrepresented populations—particularly in Arizona. During her time at CLAPR, she applied her journalistic lens to research and analysis, contributing to projects that highlighted the lived realities behind policy debates. Her ability to communicate complex issues with clarity and empathy made her a valuable voice in the CLAPR research community.
Zoey Paredes
CLAPR Alum
First-generation college graduate | Law and legislative policy
As a CLAPR alum and proud first-generation college graduate, Zoey Paredes continues to build on her commitment to Latino representation in politics and education. Since graduating from ASU, she has worked in both electoral campaigns and legislative policy and is preparing for law school at ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law. Accepted into the Los Abogados Professor Calleros Pipeline Fellowship, supporting future Latino legal leaders. Served as a Campaign Assistant for the Harris for President campaign out of the Phoenix headquarters. Oversaw the Volunteer Mail Program (VEM) at five Phoenix mail houses, managing mailers for over 5 candidates. Knocked on 300+ doors in Arizona as part of the campaign's field strategy. Recruited and coordinated over 400 volunteers for canvassing and mail operations. Began a full-time position as a Committee Secretary at the Arizona State Senate, supporting four key committees
Sisto Jacobo
CLAPR Alum
Arizona State University, Political Science
Sisto Jacobo, a CLAPR alum and ASU Political Science graduate, focuses his work on public education, English language learners, and southern border policy—issues rooted in his family’s experience as migrant workers. At CLAPR, Sisto conducted research on policies impacting Latino communities, drawing from both lived experience and academic training to advocate for greater equity and representation.
Diana Lara Zamora
CLAPR Alum
Arizona State University, B.A. in Political Science with double minors in Spanish and Transborder Chicana/o and Latina/o Studies
Diana Lara Zamora, a CLAPR alum and first-generation college graduate from Arizona State University, holds a B.A. in Political Science with double minors in Spanish and Transborder Chicana/o and Latina/o Studies. Her research interests include politics, migration, education, health, and Latino studies, all rooted in her lived experience as part of the Latino community in the U.S. Through CLAPR and SPGS, she developed strong research and analytical skills, preparing her for a future focused on public service and policy advocacy.