Carla Edith Gonzales Jimena was a recipient of the Senator William J. Fulbright scholarship and is currently working on her dissertation at Portland State University to finish her PhD in Public Affairs and Policy program. Her academic journey is grounded in the disciplines of human ecology, development management through sustainability, and public policy major in public administration. Her curiosity centers on analyzing human ecosystems and how the dynamics of institutions and organizations interplay with nature, livelihoods and culture. She has led public service, extension and research projects focusing on community and social justice work. Carla has published articles, agency reports and book chapters in human ecology, sustainability work, JEDI, community development and community engagement.
Prior to joining USP, Carla has taught various courses in the academia for many years on her capacity as an instructor or as a University Studies Graduate Student mentor. She has been actively involved as project leader or principal investigator, team member in several action research projects both in the Greater Portland area , Oregon, USA and overseas particularly in the Philippines and South East Asia region. Carla is a believer of authentic learning and community engaged scholarship. She discourses that knowledge is co-created and co-produced with the learners and the community.
Her passion and lifework are serving the underserved and creating JEDIs- Just, Equitable, Diverse and Inclusive organizations and communities. On a personal note, Carla is a simple person who loves nature walks, dancing, camping, community service and social networking. She is a mother, a wife, a woman, a Rotarian and a global citizen who is ready to make a positive difference in the lives of many in the world. . Carla serves as a Board Member of the Fulbright Oregon Chapter and a Past President and current member of Rotary International.