Throughout most of her life, Ximena has resided in her hometown in Southern Oregon. Her upbringing in a rural, agricultural community influenced an early passion for service and instilled a longing for representation.

For her, the opportunity to advocate for rural communities and promote their value is a mission that is extremely personal. She recognizes the adversity rural communities must overcome to survive, because she has experienced a rural upbringing. Prior to working at Rural Development Initiatives, Ximena worked with other nonprofit organizations, specifically within the education and advocacy realm.

She is a first generation American, but still has strong ties to her mother’s hometown in Michoacán, México. She is beyond proud of her culture, which has influenced a passion to serve her Spanish speaking and Latino community. When not working, Ximena enjoys going to concerts, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with her family.