Nicole Sanchez

Nicole graduated from Arizona State University (ASU) with an Integrative Health degree in the spring of 2023. At ASU, Nicole studied community-focused approaches to wellness that promote social connection, mental health, physical health, and spiritual well-being. During her college experience, Nicole received opportunities in mix-method research and grant writing initiatives. She worked with the Starbucks Social Impact Team in a fellowship where she gathered data and conducted interviews to identify programs that could improve financial, social, environmental, and mental health for Starbucks partners. Nicole also worked as an intern with Sprout City Farms, a nonprofit in Denver, Colorado, where she assisted in writing multiple grants to request funding for food security programs that impacted diverse communities to obtain access to weekly fresh produce. In her final year at ASU, Nicole served as a research assistant under Dr. Fiorella Carlos Chavez in her "Youth Health and Well-being Lab" to understand the implications of culture, family, and work-life-related stressors on Latino migrant youth health and development. In the future, Nicole aspires to continue learning about conducting research and community evaluation. She hopes to pursue a graduate degree in public health with an emphasis on population mental health and well-being. Nicole has taught yoga and meditation for many years to diverse communities in senior centers, women's shelters, and community centers. She is passionate about teaching, learning, and making holistic practices accessible to reduce stress and improve mental health. Nicole's studies in integrative health have enhanced her dedication to promoting the health of mind, body, and spirit. In her free time, she enjoys hiking in the mountains with her dog and husband. She also loves binge-watching a good Netflix series and eating vegan ice cream.