Mary Nguyễn

Policy and Research Manager, She/Her

Mary is a first-generation daughter of Vietnamese refugees who pursued her double master's in Social Welfare and Public Policy at UCLA. Growing up in an immigrant household, Mary grew to understand the impact of financial hardship, the toxicity of traditional and gendered norms, and the limitations in professional development as an AANHPI woman, which helped shape her identity and experiences. Mary had multi-directional experiences in behavioral health services for communities of color who were most vulnerable and engaged in racial justice work through research and organizing spaces. For instance, she led community events for students during her graduate program that fostered cross-collaboration across diverse organizations, such as the Community Walk-and-Talk and ShAAPIng Leadership Workshop.

Mary contributed to research focusing on mental health and racial injustices for AANHPI communities through the Digital Equity and Anti-Oppression (DEAO) Research Lab. At the Center for Neighborhood Knowledge (CNK), she contributed to research findings on the negative impacts of COVID-19, such as financial burden, the surge in AANHPI hate crimes, and overall health, throughout the years in most vulnerable communities. Taking on the role of the Policy and Research Manager at CHNSC, Mary is eager to continue her work in uplifting the AANHPI community through research and policy implications for better working conditions, gender and racial equity, and quality of life.

During her rest days, Mary enjoys traveling with her partner and trying new experiences. She likes to stay active by skating, hiking, or playing volleyball. When relaxing, Mary enjoys listening to music, playing the piano, or cuddling with her pets.