Cool Learning Experience Team
Leading and Inspiring
OUR LEADER
Maritza Rocha
Executive Director
Maritza Rocha’s journey through life has been defined by resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to her community and the environment. Growing up as a first-generation American in Chicago, influenced by her hard-working immigrant mother from Michoacán, Mexico, Maritza developed a strong sense of connection and commitment. Her childhood, filled with outdoor activities like gardening, camping, hiking, and fishing, instilled in her a profound love for nature. This early appreciation for the natural world guided her educational and professional pursuits,
beginning with the Chicago Women in Trades Program and leading to a carpentry apprenticeship in overwater bridge construction. Maritza’s passion for tangible impact and community service grew as she pursued a bachelor's degree in
Sociology of Law & Society and a Master's in Sustainable Urban Development at DePaul University, focusing on cultural and land preservation, health disparities, and the importance of green spaces in communities of color.
As the first Latina Nature Center Director of the Little Red Schoolhouse in the Forest Preserves of Cook County, Maritza managed 500 acres and a Gold LEED certified interpretive nature center, introducing diverse, culturally relevant curricula. Currently, as the Executive Director at Cool Learning Experience, she inspires youth, families, and BIPOC communities to appreciate and preserve natural spaces, emphasizing advocacy and STEAM education. Beyond her professional roles, Maritza is a published writer and active in various
committees and boards, including the Environmentalists of Color Networks. Her passion for writing, gardening, and outdoor activities, combined with her leadership in the Latinx community and numerous certifications in conservation, highlight her dedication to positive change and community engagement. Residing in the North Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago, Maritza Rocha embodies the power of connection, education, and inclusivity, making her a remarkable force for positive change both locally and beyond.
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