Today we’d like to introduce you to Carla Gomez.
Hi Carla, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into higher education is deeply personal. As a young mother and first-generation college student, I entered college with more questions than answers, limited resources, and a deep desire to break cycles for myself and my family. It wasn’t easy, but it was transformative. The support I received during those early years opened doors I never imagined possible, and it instilled in me a lifelong commitment to creating that same sense of possibility for others.
Today, I proudly serve as an Assistant Director supporting incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students. My work is rooted in advocacy for those often left out of traditional educational spaces—those who are justice-impacted, system-impacted, and striving to create new paths forward. I’ve spent my career fighting for equitable access, not because of a title, but because I believe I serve a higher purpose: to ensure that anyone who seeks to better themselves through education has the chance to do so with dignity and support.
When I had the opportunity to return to the very college that once gave me so much when I had so little, I knew I was coming full circle. Education gave me social and economic mobility, but more importantly, it gave me purpose. I believe that education doesn’t have a deadline and that dreams do not expire—no matter your past, your age, or your circumstances. That belief fuels my continued pursuit of a doctoral degree—not for personal accolades, but to return and give even more to the communities I serve. My story is proof that transformation is possible, and my mission is to help others believe the same.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all. I’ve had a life—real, complicated, beautiful, and often messy life. Breaking stereotypes as a young Latina mother, raising three children, and pursuing my dreams hasn’t always felt like a dream. It’s cost me time, energy, and sometimes a few tears. It’s also come with setbacks and failures; moments we don’t talk about enough.
I always find it funny how we’re conditioned to celebrate only the success stories, when in reality, the most powerful growth comes from the moments in between. I’ve failed. I’ve had doors close on me—personally and professionally. But where a door closes, I’ve learned to jump through a window, or build a new path altogether.
A great friend challenged me to “Embrace our own messiness.” And that stuck with me. Because learning, growth, and leadership aren’t neat or predictable—they’re raw, non-linear, and deeply human. I’ve come to understand that we don’t rise despite the mess—we rise because of it
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have the privilege of serving as the Assistant Director alongside my colleagues, supporting incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students. Together, we focus on building educational pathways for those often excluded from higher education, ensuring they have access, support, and a real chance to succeed.
I specialize in advocacy, program development, and creating cross-system partnerships that make college more accessible and human-centered. I’m most proud of the students who overcome incredible obstacles to graduate and of the community we’ve built around them.
What sets me apart is that I lead with purpose, not position. But I also know none of this is possible alone. Education isn’t meant to be done alone; it takes a network of care, and I’m proud to be part of that.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
My most important lesson is to fail faster and remain humble. Failure has been one of my greatest teachers. It’s shown me that growth doesn’t come from avoiding mistakes but from moving through them with courage and reflection. The faster we allow ourselves to fail, the quicker we learn, adapt, and get closer to who we’re meant to be.
I’ve also learned that titles don’t make the person. What truly matters is whether you can show up, help people, and make a difference. Staying grounded in service, not status, is what keeps this work meaningful. No role, degree, or accolade will ever matter more than the impact we have on someone’s life.
And through it all, I’ve learned that we’re not meant to do this alone. The most lasting change happens when we lead with purpose, collaborate with others, and stay humble enough to keep learning, no matter where we are in our journey.
Contact Info:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbsevilla/
Image Credits
Giovanna Trujillo Photography
Southwestern College
