Program Manager II
gjrivasp@central.uh.edu

Genesis Rivas-Ponce (she/her/ella) serves as Program Manager II for the Cougar Cupboard. A jack of all trades, having experience in retail, public health research, youth social work, healthcare operations, and program management. Although it is her first time in Student Life, she has a passion to serve students and ensure that their quality of life is enhanced by services provided.

As Program Manager, Genesis is responsible for managing daily operations at the Cougar Cupboard and finding innovative ways to improve access to services. She is Health Education Specialist Certified (CHES). Genesis received a Master of Public Health in Community Health Practice at UTHealth Science Center (Houston) in 2020, and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Houston Baptist University in 2017.

Genesis is the proud daughter of Salvadoran immigrants and a first-generation American. She was born in Boston, MA, but has lived in the Houston area since she was 3 years old. On her free time, Genesis loves collecting Smiskis and cute Pokémon cards, crocheting wearables and homeware, playing on her Switch, and dancing Mexican Folklorico.

“No one should be limited to succeed due to their inability to afford basic needs or lacking access to determinants that promote positive health. As a Public Health professional, it is my responsibility to create and enhance programs and services that impact a community, and I am so lucky to be in a space where preventive care is possible. I am excited to work with the UH community and build relationships across campus and externally.”