Alma Apolonio-Bernal

Alma Apolonio Bernal is the First-Generation Scholars Coordinator at The Center in the C4C.

As a proud first-generation, low-income college graduate, Alma knows firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating higher education, and she is passionate about walking alongside students as they build confidence, community and a sense of belonging on campus.

With Mexican roots, born in California but raised in Iowa, Alma brings lived experience and professional expertise to her role. Before joining CU Boulder, she worked with Trio Upward Bound, the Center for Inclusive Academic Excellence and co-coordinated the Iowa Edge program at the University of Iowa. Through these roles, she mentored and supported first-gen students, taught leadership courses and helped create spaces where students could show up fully as themselves.

Alma is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree, with a focus on leadership and community practice. She is committed to equity-driven, evidence-based work that uplifts historically marginalized students and she believes deeply in the power of connection, storytelling and community care.

Outside of work, Alma enjoys exploring new places, spending time outdoors, training her energetic dog and building meaningful connections wherever she goes.