Alma serves as the Assistant Director of the RENEW Research Team. Prior to joining the RENEW Team, she was employed as the Assistant Director of the Arizona Smokers' Helpline. Her education comprises a Bachelors in Political Science and Masters in Mexican American Studies, emphasizing comparative ethnic studies from San Jose State University. Her certifications include; National Certification for Tobacco Treatment Practice (NCTTP) from ATTUD, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist from the Mayo Clinic, Instructional Specialist Certified Nicotine Dependence Treatment, Certified Tobacco Intervention Skills for Native Communities, Instructor Tobacco Intervention Skills Certification, and Certified Tobacco Intervention Skills for Maternal & Child Health from the HealthCare Partnership.