Patricia with husband Jack and sons Carlos and Tomás

I was born in 1964 in Colombia. I come from a family of eight siblings and a large extended family that maintains close ties. I lived with my family in Pasto until I met my husband, Jack, a student from the University of Minnesota, who had traveled to Colombia in a study abroad internship. We were married in 1987 and moved to Minnesota where I learned English, worked various jobs, and completed my education. I have two degrees from the University of Minnesota: a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Studies and a Master’s Degree in Public Affairs from the Humphrey Institute.

We have two wonderful boys, Tomás and Carlos, ages 11 and 9. During the last seven years, I have been involved in my children’s education and volunteered at their schools in many different areas. I have tutored kindergartners, developed a bilingual book club of fifth graders and was active in the PTA at Emerson Spanish Immersion School.

I have volunteered in many nonprofit organizations that provide social services to children and families. I have been a board member, interpreter, fundraiser, trainer, and parent advocate.

We own a home in the Longfellow neighborhood and have a great group of neighbors that welcome us back to the block each night. I enjoy gardening and remodeling our 1913 home. My family and I love camping, boating, fishing, and hiking. We enjoy walking around the lakes, but our favorite place is the Mississippi River.

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