By Sara Nelson

Happy “Where Do You Work?” Wednesday! This week meet alumna Elizabeth Martinez-Podolsky (M.A.’12 HESA).

Martinez-Podolsky works as the Multicultural Liaison Officer for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. Within her role, she serves multicultural, LGBT, and veteran students, and develops ideas to increase diversity and multicultural programs and future initiatives.

“My job is like no other and I am extremely proud and humbled to work alongside a college that allows me to support underrepresented students with an open mind and heart,” says Martinez-Podolsky. “My students are bright, resilient, and aren’t afraid to ask questions. It has been incredibly healing to work with future scientists changing the narrative and coming back to their roots and connection to the earth, food, animals, and natural resources.

As a first generation Latinx student from Texas, Martinez-Podolsky initially struggled with her transition to the University of Iowa. However, her many mentors, including professor Debora Lidell, and staff members Gabriela Rivera, and Kate Fitzgerald, provided her with support, and pushed her learning further.

“I had great mentors who took the time to support and remind me of my intellect and listen to my experiences,” says Martinez-Podolsky. “Though it wasn’t easy for me, I was pushed to learn new ideas, get involved in my communities, and value higher education in a new light.”

Want to be the next “Where Do You Work Wednesday?” or nominate someone? Message us on Facebook, tag them with #HawkeyeTeachers, or email us at educationatiowa@uiowa.edu.