As Outright’s Education Manager, Mercedes champions the implementation of school-based transformation across Vermont, including developing partnerships with K-12 schools across the state, creating training plans, and designing curriculum and policy. Mercedes’ central focus is on helping adults build the skills and knowledge needed to show up for LGBTQ+ youth, leveraging their roles to catalyze school-based change and broader community transformation.
Mercedes is inspired by watching youth transform the struggles of the learning process and engage fearlessly in changemaking and self-discovery. She is dedicated to ensuring youth leaders have the space to thrive as the best and bravest possible versions of themselves, and that adults in their communities are poised to support and believe in them.
Seven years of experience working in affirming summer camps has impressed on Mercedes the value of joyful and vulnerable silliness. Drawing on a disability education lens, she aims to create learning spaces for adults and youth alike that are fun, accessible, and affirming. Mercedes’ background in sex education supports her passion for teaching and her ability to delve into difficult topics with openness and humility. When Mercedes earned her Master’s of Education in Human Sexuality from Widener University in 2023, she was already transforming Outright’s education & training offerings to boost access, strengthen engagement, and seamlessly integrate the voices of queer and trans youth.
One day, Mercedes plans to retire to a home in the countryside with her loved ones, a small herd of elderly rescue dogs, and lots of big beautiful flower gardens for all the birds and the bees.
The DFO plays a pivotal role in stewarding Outright’s financial health, overseeing HR, and operations, as well as helping to shape internal systems that allow LGBTQ+ youth programs to thrive. Applications are due Sunday, June 8, 2025.
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