Carolina Salmeron is a program officer and leads the Reproductive Justice work at the Texas-based Jacob and Terese Hershey Foundation. As a philanthropic leader, she prioritizes grassroots efforts and community-led initiatives, ensuring those affected do not just have a seat at the table, but leadership roles and the tools to succeed. As an immigrant and queer Latina raised in Texas, Carolina has lived experience with many of the intersections of reproductive justice, is passionate about representation, and is committed to continue disrupting systems of oppression and inequity within and beyond philanthropy, amplifying the voices of marginalized and disenfranchised communities, and supporting those working boldly toward a future of liberation for all.
Carolina previously served as Senior Director of Programs for Healthy Futures of Texas, increasing access to inclusive sexual education for Texas adolescents. As a Program Officer at the Bill and Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, she championed youth-led initiatives globally, elevating youth voices and leadership in reproductive justice. Carolina holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Texas A&M University, a master’s degree in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, and an advanced certificate in nonprofit leadership from Rice University. She also serves as vice president of the board of MECA, a Houston nonprofit dedicated to the healthy development of underserved families.
When she isn’t getting her hands dirty in the vegetable garden, Carolina also enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, reading sci-fi and fantasy novels, and a great cup of coffee.