Board of Directors

Veronica is a bilingual School Psychologist with 18 years of experience. She double majored in Psychology and Communication at the University of Arizona, Graduating Cum Laude in 2001. She returned to the University of Arizona and obtained an Education Specialist degree in School Psychology in 2007. She has experience at all grade levels from preschool through high school.  

Prior to working in public schools, Veronica worked as a counselor providing court ordered responsibility education for adolescents and facilitating groups and individual counseling for individuals with DUI and/or domestic violence violations. She also worked as a program coordinator for Project BETAS, a program designed to support and encourage bilingual students on the path to becoming teachers. Among other responsibilities she recruited participants, monitored their academic progress, advised in varied areas, and coordinated with agencies to meet program objectives.

As a first-generation Latina, Veronica understands the many challenges that girls face every day. Giving girls the tools necessary to navigate school and life in general will empower them to pursue their dreams, education, and positions of leadership

Dra. Karla Silva is the Director of Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Initiatives at the University of Arizona.A first-generation college graduate, Chicana, mama, and daughter of immigrants, Dra. Silva’s lived experience informs her work as a scholar-practitioner dedicated to building inclusive educational environments. She earned her BA in Psychology from Northern Arizona University, a Master’s in Higher Education from the University of Pennsylvania, and a PhD in Higher Education from the University of Arizona. In addition, she has been actively engaged in immigrant rights and scholarship initiatives through ScholarshipsA-Z, where she has served on the board of directors from 2020-2025. Nationally she also serves as current Co-Chair of the ACPA Latinx Network, and as Vice President for Membership for the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Institution Educators.

As a new member of the Mini Poderosas Board of Directors, Dr. Silva is honored to support the organization’s mission of mentoring and empowering girls ages 8–18 through social-emotional learning, leadership development, and community engagement. She looks forward to collaborating with fellow board members and community partners to expand opportunities that inspire and prepare young women in Tucson to thrive as future leaders.

Selina, a proud native of Tucson, is a dedicated mother of three and a passionate advocate for her community. She serves as the Marketing and Business Development Director for TARC, a company based in Northern California, while also contributing her expertise to Special Projects with the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

A graduate of Sunnyside High School, Selina went on to play softball for Pima Community College. Her love for sports continues today, both as an avid supporter of all athletics and as a devoted mother cheering on her children in their own journeys.

Beyond her professional and family life, Selina is an active member of the Reina community and Reina's Who Hike, embracing the power of sisterhood and the outdoors. She is also a strong supporter of local businesses you'll often find her at Tucsons coffee shops and eateries, knowing that investing in local means investing in the heart of the community.

Throughout her career, Selina has remained deeply committed to nonprofit work, having worked with organizations such as Chicanos por la Causa and the American Red Cross. She firmly believes in empowering young girls today to become the strong women and leaders of tomorrow, a passion that drives her service on the board.