Favorite Quote:    "History, as nearly no one seems to know, is not merely something to be read. And it does not refer merely, or even principally, to the past. On the contrary, the great force of history comes from the fact that we carry it within us, are unconsciously controlled by it in many ways, and history is literally present in all that we do. It could scarcely be otherwise, since it is to history that we owe our frames of reference, our identities, and our aspirations."     – James Baldwin

Brief bio:    Dr. Nicki Gonzales is an associate professor of History and Vice Provost for Diversity and Inclusion at Regis University. She is a native of Denver, and her family has deep roots in Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. She specializes in the history of the American West, with a focus on race relations and social and political movements. Her research interests include the land grant movements of Southern Colorado and the experiences of Chicano Vietnam Veterans. She is also a mom and coach to her two sons, Danny and Teddy.     

Why CIRCLE?     Honored by Carla’s invitation, I joined the CIRCLE Board because I believe in our youth. I believe in the power of community and education to change the world. I have seen, personally, the transformation that takes place when youth participate in CIRCLE programs, and I see it as my responsibility to support such programs and make them accessible to more youth.

Favorite book related to inclusiveness:     Tattoos on the Heart: by Greg Boyle

Personal Theme Song:    "People Got to Be Free" - The Young Rascals
She, Her, Hers