15 FASCINATING FACES OF 2023 | Dr. Lili Burciaga

Instrumental in Creating an Authentic Space for Latinos & Distinguished Professor

NAPERVILLE–As the Founder and President of the Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs (ALMAS), the first Latino-led, Latino-serving nonprofit in Naperville, Dr. Burciaga has been instrumental in creating an authentic space for Latinos to celebrate their heritage and nurture future leaders.

A first-generation, bilingual Chicagoan with Mexican roots, she works as a licensed counselor and clinical consultant working in minoritized communities. She is currently a distinguished Counseling and Psychology Professor at Lewis University and serves as the Associate Director of the Gros Institute for Dialogue, Justice, and Social Action.

Dr. Burciaga is not only a published author and sought-after speaker but also collaborates with school districts on trauma-responsiveness and restorative practices. As a parent to children ages 5, 7, and 17, she supports PTA initiatives for Art Awareness, engages in Indian Prairie 204 events, and is a Mexican Folkloric Dance mom.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Lili chairs the Membership Committee for the International Association of Resilience and Trauma Counseling, is a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA) International Committee, and an ACA Foundation Board Trustee. Lili was also a panelist at the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation Raíces Conference.

-Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Ruta Drulia