Summary
Iliana Guadalupe Villegas understands that community is built on resilience. As a first-generation and non-traditional student who earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from New Mexico State University before completing her Ph.D. at the University of Florida, she knows firsthand the power of educational opportunity. This personal journey inspired her work with the McNair Scholars Program—part of the federal TRiO programs—where she designed professional pathways and coached underrepresented and first-generation scholars toward academic success in master's and Ph.D. programs.
Villegas is a sociocultural anthropologist who actively challenges urbancentric models, focusing instead on the distinct realities, strengths, and economic dynamics of rural and frontier systems. With extensive experience conducting fieldwork in complex environments, she knows how to listen deeply to the needs of Lincoln County’s farmers, families, and workers, ensuring that Extension serves as a true hub of support for every resident.
A lover of the outdoors and camping, Iliana is proud to return to Nevada to serve the Silver State. She believes that representation matters and works to ensure that every voice in our community is heard and valued. Some of her favorite things to do are watching DC Superhero movies, football soccer, and camping at state parks.
