About Mariluz

Mariluz was born in Elko to a Basque father and a Mexican mother. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s degree in Counseling, and a Ph.D. in Education, all of which were earned at UNR.

Mariluz is a mother of two who’s been a middle school counselor, and is currently the Executive Director of the Dean’s Future-Scholars program for UNR’s College of Education & Human Development. She recently founded the Nevada First-Gen Network to support prospective first-generation college students in Nevada and provide students a future path to college.

Mariluz is running for office because families and businesses in District 3 need someone with her background to lead them.  District 3 is the most diverse in Washoe County and, as such, has been the hardest hit by the pandemic over the past two years.  She understands the sacrifices so many have made and she will never stop fighting to see that they get the help and support they need to get back on their feet and succeed.

Mariluz’s candidacy is not about the spotlight.  She has directly served the children, families and neighborhoods for almost two decades. Her work is her life story.  It’s about service before self.  It’s about the right thing for all the right reasons.

Honors and Awards
Reno People Honoree, 2018
Salute to Women of Achievement Honoree, 2017
Human and Civil Rights Award, 2015
20 Under 40 Award Winner, 2014
John A. Bailey Professional Expectancy Award, 2007

Experience 
Founder, Nevada First-Gen Network; College of Education and Human Development, UNR
Executive Direct, Dean’s Future Scholars; College of Education, UNR
School Counselor, Dilworth and Glenn Duncan S.T.E.M. Academies
Americorps Volunteer