From the president
Jimena Siqueros, a sophomore Creative Writing major at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), passionately advocates for equity, representation, and civic engagement. Raised in both El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, she brings a deep understanding of border life and the cultural complexities that shape her community.
Jimena seeks to address the root causes of social inequities—particularly the underrepresentation of border voices—through storytelling, community-based writing, and civic education. As an aspiring editor, she amplifies marginalized narratives and works to make literature and public discourse more inclusive.
At UTEP’s Center for Community Engagement, she leads voter registration efforts, supports student volunteer initiatives, and contributes to civic action planning and micro-grant development. Her work empowers peers to engage in democratic processes and prepares them for lifelong civic participation.
Jimena focuses on expanding access to the arts for Hispanic students, recognizing the need for systemic change in traditionally exclusive creative spaces. She views storytelling not only as a tool for cultural expression but also as a tool for public problem-solving.
Through the Newman Civic Fellowship, Jimena is eager to collaborate with like-minded peers and build the innovative leadership skills needed to create lasting, community-driven change.
Personal Statement
As a lifelong resident of both El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juárez, I understand the unique perspectives of the border region and the importance of civic engagement among young Hispanic students. As an aspiring editor and writer, I believe profoundly in the power of voices, especially those often overlooked. My goal is to share stories of people who navigate the complexities of border life and its cultural intersections.
I support students in learning about democratic processes through voter registration education, volunteering opportunities, and early professional development. I help them cultivate skills crucial for lifelong success because I believe we all should have a voice in our democratic processes.
As a student myself, I advocate for increased access to opportunities for Hispanic students, particularly in the arts where pathways may be less established than in other career fields. I am dedicated to creating lasting social change through representation, storytelling, and community engagement.
This fellowship represents the perfect opportunity for me to develop the tools I need to ignite change for students like myself. I am confident that through service, young professionals strengthen their leadership abilities while creating meaningful community impact.