Dr. Joca G. Marquez is a dynamic and accomplished individual whose diverse experience and unwavering commitment to positive change have significantly impacted her community. As a Research Scientist at NASA Kennedy Space Center, Dr. Marquez is actively involved in shaping scientific content for regional initiatives, collaborating with key partners such as Exploration Ground Systems, Commercial Crew Program, and Mars Exploration. Her role extends as NASA's representative for the Kennedy Space Center region, covering several states and territories, where she has consistently spearheaded authentic NASA STEM engagement efforts. Beyond her work at NASA, Dr. Marquez has contributed her expertise as a Consultant for the National Science Foundation, where she played a vital role in creating formative and summative evaluation reports that inform outcome-related decisions. Her collaborative approach and valuable feedback have enhanced program effectiveness, benefiting educational initiatives. Dr. Marquez's commitment to community development is exemplified by her tenure as an elected City Council Member in San Marcos, Texas. In this role, she enacted policies, adopted resolutions, and communicated effectively with state and federal stakeholders. Her work on committees addressing homelessness, sustainability, and criminal justice reform highlights her dedication to solving critical community issues. Her contributions extend to the national political arena, where she served as a Party Leader and Elected Official National Delegate at the National Democratic Convention and actively participated in the democratic process and mentoring aspiring leaders. With a strong academic background in chemistry, Dr. Marquez has made scholarly contributions, including peer-reviewed journal articles and extensive laboratory experience. Her skill set encompasses data analysis and content creation, making her a valuable asset to the Better Futures Institute. Dr. Joca Giselle Marquez's multifaceted career and commitment to innovation and community empowerment make her an integral part of the institute's mission to foster a more sustainable, equitable, and innovative future for our communities.