LEAF Spotlight: Jacqueline Elizabeth Salguera
Empowering Communities Through Equity and Education
Jacqueline Elizabeth Salguera’s journey is a powerful example of perseverance, leadership, and an unshakable belief in the power of education to transform lives. From her early days mentoring fellow students in the Latino Education Advancement Foundation (LEAF) to becoming a distinguished CED Scholar, Jacqueline embodies what it means to break barriers and create lasting change.
A First-Generation Trailblazer
Graduating from UC Berkeley in Fall 2023 with a B.A. in Public Health, Jacqueline achieved what many only dream of—completing her degree on a full-ride scholarship and graduating debt-free. But for Jacqueline, her success is measured not just by her academic achievements, but by the lives she’s impacted along the way.
“I’m most proud of empowering other first-generation students to reach for the stars,” she shares. “Helping them get into top universities like UC Berkeley and Stanford, and watching them secure scholarships and fellowships, has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.” Her own academic success became the platform from which she helped others launch their dreams.
Fueling Passion Through Personal Experience
Jacqueline’s motivation for pursuing a career in public health is deeply personal. Growing up in an immigrant, Spanish-speaking, low-income household, she witnessed the systemic health disparities that plagued her community. “I saw firsthand the inequities my family and neighbors faced, and I knew I had to do something about it,” she recalls. “Public health became my calling because I wanted to be an advocate for those who often go unheard.”
Her educational journey began with programs like College is Real and the Health Career Pathways internship, which helped her build the confidence and skills to succeed as a student and future leader. “Being selected for the Fiat Lux Scholarship was a game-changer. It not only relieved the financial burden but reminded me that I belonged in spaces like UC Berkeley,” Jacqueline says.
During her time at Berkeley, Jacqueline took full advantage of the opportunities available, gaining hands-on experience as a Research Assistant Intern at the Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, where she analyzed environmental health data that will help secure future funding for justice initiatives. "Researching PFAS in drinking water made me realize how much work needs to be done to address environmental health disparities,” she shares.
Leading with Heart and Purpose
Throughout her academic career, Jacqueline has always been committed to paying it forward. As a mentor for programs like Navigating Cal (NAVCAL & NAV2CAL) and the Latino Education Advancement Foundation, she provided guidance to fellow students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them navigate the complexities of higher education.
“My goal has always been to uplift others, especially first-generation students like myself,” she says. “I’ve been where they are—unsure, overwhelmed—and I want to be the person that helps them see their potential.”
Her work in the community has not gone unnoticed. Jacqueline has been honored with numerous awards, including the Fiat Lux Scholarship, the Cal Leadership Award (twice!), and the Chicana Latina Foundation Scholar Award. Each recognition reflects not only her academic excellence but also her drive to serve others.
Building Healthier, More Equitable Communities
Looking toward the future, Jacqueline’s aspirations are ambitious and inspiring. She is determined to continue advocating for underserved communities through her work in public health, with a specific focus on environmental health and justice. “I want to address the environmental factors that disproportionately affect low-income and immigrant communities,” Jacqueline explains. “These are issues I’ve experienced firsthand, and I’m passionate about finding solutions.”
She also remains deeply committed to education, believing it to be a critical component of public health improvement. “Empowering people through education has always been at the heart of what I do,” Jacqueline says. “Whether I’m mentoring students or advocating for healthier communities, education is the key to unlocking a better future.”
Her internships at the Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Health Career Pathways, and RotaCare Bay Area have all equipped her with the skills to tackle real-world health challenges, from conducting research to translating patient data and advocating for better healthcare access. “Every experience has reinforced my commitment to public health and my belief that change is possible when we work together,” she shares with confidence.
Continuing to Inspire and Empower
As Jacqueline reflects on her journey, she remains focused on the future and the impact she hopes to make. “I aspire to continue mentoring, advocating, and empowering others—especially first-generation students—to achieve their goals,” she says with determination. “It’s not just about what I’ve accomplished; it’s about helping others see what they’re capable of.”
With her passion for education, public health, and advocacy, Jacqueline is well on her way to creating a legacy of positive change. Her story is one of resilience, service, and the unwavering belief that, together, we can build a brighter, healthier, and more just world.
