Hera is a fierce advocate for educational equity and school choice. As a former recipient of the Florida tax-credit scholarship, along with eight siblings who also benefited from the program, Hera’s personal journey is a testament to the transformative power of education. Her firsthand experience witnessing the deep inequities in schools across the nation—and hearing countless stories of individuals whose lives could have been drastically different with access to better education—ignited her unwavering commitment to reform.

Holding a degree in Food Science & Technology from Florida A&M University, Hera shifted her career focus to education reform. Before joining Step Up for Students, she worked with the American Federation for Children, where she helped amplify the voices of families advocating for school choice. Hera has also testified before state and federal lawmakers, including the Congressional Ways and Means Committee, where she highlighted the transformative power of federal school choice legislation and its potential to offer every child a brighter future.

A powerful storyteller and dedicated change-maker, Hera’s work continues to inspire people nationwide—whether they are lawmakers, advocates, or everyday families. Her commitment to breaking down barriers in education fuels her ongoing fight for a more just and equitable system for all children.

In her free time, Hera loves to read, ride horses, and is currently training to run in her first marathon.