Claudia Gonzalez Astorga is the Student Program Coordinator for Latin American Programs. She was born and raised in San Isidro, D.B., a small village on the outskirt of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

As a first-generation student, Gonzalez Astorga values the transformative power of attending a university. She recognizes the profound impact of higher education, believing that pursuing a college degree not only instills pride, but also improves one’s own life, and those around you. Claudia’s academic journey commenced with an associate's degree from DACC, where she was recognized with the "Outstanding Graduate Award" in General Studies. She is also an NMSU alumna, holding a bachelor's degree in Foreign Languages with a specialization on Spanish and Portuguese. Claudia’s academic pursuits culminated at age 50, with a Master's degree in Spanish with concentration in Literature. With a rich educational background, Gonzalez Astorga has extensive experience in community and equity work spanning both sides of the US-Mexico border. Claudia advocated for social issues among Latino students and promoted education to senior citizens, and high school students. Furthermore, her commitment to language education took her to become a volunteer assisting students with Spanish language acquisition in the Department of Language and Linguistics, where later on taught Spanish classes as a graduate student. Her passion lies in supporting students and guiding them towards a deserved brighter future, firmly believing that with dedication and mentorship, any dream is achievable.

Before joining NMSU, Claudia embarked on ventures that underscore her entrepreneurial spirit. She established a Spanish academy, and a coffee house, who later evolved into a restaurant in Old Mesilla, which has quickly intertwined with a vibrant cultural center for senior citizens, hosting diverse activities ranging from conversational Spanish clubs, book clubs, German and French conversational clubs, to Spanish I & II clubs. Additionally, cultural events such as musical performances, dance showcases, artist gatherings, and book signings have become regular highlights of the center’s offerings.

Fun Fact: Claudia loves writing, reading, walking her dog, and expending time with her family.

Claudia Gonzalez Astorga

Program Coordinator of Latin American Program