School of Education Commencement

As the daughter of immigrants and a first-generation student, Mercedez Delgado passionately fights for social justice and advocacy within her community and at work. Born and raised in San Bernardino, she’s always been aware of the diverse voices and systemic barriers within her community, fostering her passion for creating inclusive and safe spaces. During her years as an undergraduate at the University of Redlands, Mercedez found herself drawn to psychology. She become a workshop facilitator in San Bernardino’s Juvenile Hall, interacting with young minds. This inspired her to pursue a Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree, emphasizing social justice and advocacy. Mercedez holds a profound dedication to understanding and acknowledging the complex and unique mental health needs of marginalized forensic populations. She aspires to promote healing and equity in her work, and upon graduating, she is prepared to embark on her journey as a mental health therapist for the forensic population, where she will meet them with empathy and compassion.