Imelda is a proud first-generation college graduate born and raised in Texas with family roots in Mexico. She is passionate about preventative health education and fostering equitable food systems. She holds a Bachelor’s in Community Health from Texas A&M University, a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Tennessee, and is a certified Community Health Education Specialist.
Her career includes leading an opioid use disorder prevention program for middle schoolers in rural Tennessee equipping youth with health advocacy skills, and collaborating with the United Way of Greater Knoxville to support community garden expansion, enhancement, and resource allocation
Now based in Aurora, Colorado, Imelda works with FJNWA as a community organizer, striving to expand access to underutilized land for urban agriculture and support the development of community wealth and resilience through food-related initiatives for underserved NW Aurora communities.
In her free time, Imelda enjoys kayaking, upcycling, cooking, hiking, and live music.
HEAL Food Alliance
2025 School of Political Leadership
Food Justice NW Aurora
Imelda Gutiérrez

(she/her/ella)
Community Organizer,
Food Justice NW Aurora
This is a crucial time to address food justice as many BIPOC communities face challenges in accessing food, land, and leadership opportunities. SoPL offers the chance to reimagine these systems into ones that reflect the needs and voices of all communities. I hope to gain the skills to help community members in NW Aurora take charge of their food systems, grow culturally significant foods, and build a more just and inclusive future. With SoPL’s support, I envision a future where BIPOC communities lead in shaping equitable food systems.