We’re proud to share that Daniela Gonzales-Rious, AJE’s Health Justice Coordinator, has been appointed as a Family Organization Representative to the DC Coordinating Council for School-Based Behavioral Health. In this role, Daniela will help elevate family voices and advocate for more equitable, accessible behavioral health supports for students across the District. Her lived experience, professional background, and deep commitment to community-centered systems make her a powerful addition to this important citywide effort.

About Daniela:

Daniela Gonzales-Rious joined AJE in 2025 as a Health Justice Coordinator. Born in Peru and raised in New York City, she immigrated with her family seeking more inclusive and accessible healthcare for her older sister, who is on the autism spectrum. From a young age, Daniela witnessed firsthand the challenges many families face when navigating unfamiliar and often intimidating systems. This motivated her passion for supporting communities in navigating complex systems like healthcare, public services, immigration, and education. 

Daniela earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a double minor in Education and Peace & Justice Studies from Gettysburg College. While there, she co-founded The Butterfly Coalition, a student-led advocacy organization dedicated to supporting undocumented students and migrant communities in Adams County, Pennsylvania. She also has research experience in child development with a focus on language and identity, from the University of Michigan and Gettysburg College. 

With over five years in K–12 education, Daniela taught elementary school in Washington, DC, and later served as Student and Family Engagement Coordinator at the Center for Supportive Schools in NYC, working closely with multicultural and newly arrived immigrant families. 

At AJE, Daniela applies her passion and experience to advocate for equitable, accessible safety nets and support systems for students and their families.

Click Here to learn more about the Coordinating Council for School-Based Behavioral Health.