Maria Socorro Gutierrez
President - email: Contact the President
(Term 2024-2025)
I have been a member of NITA for over 12 years because I strongly believe it is an important association for language professionals, and an informative gateway for those on the path to becoming one.
I am grateful to be part of this supportive community of fellow interpreters and translators where many of us have found the encouragement and resources needed to advance in our professional development. Now, in my new capacity as a board member, I am able to give back and work towards NITA’s mission, and to continue those same benefits to current and future members.
I am a Spanish Certified Court Interpreter in the State of Nevada. Originally from California, I lived in Guanajuato, Mexico where I completed my studies in Business Management. I worked in the airline industry for 15 years, which brought me to Las Vegas . I have worked as a freelance interpreter and ESL instructor both in Mexico and the U.S. I currently work for a travel logistics company, in addition to my independent contracts.
Mieko Hirai Braun
Vice President - email: Contact the Vice President
(Term 2024-2025)
I am a registered Japanese court interpreter in the state of Nevada. I have been working as a Japanese interpreter / translator for over 30 years both in Japan and the United States. Graduated from the Western State University College of Law in Orange County, CA. I understand the legal issues, and am able to address our issues and needs to our legislative body of the state.
Our country needs to reflect diversity that we stand for and so does NITA. I would like to represent the voices of interpreters who speak LOTS.
This is the time work together in diversity to unite.
Amarilis Alexander
Treasurer - email: Contact the Treasurer
(Term 2023-2025)
As an experienced individual in the hospitality industry from front line employee to operational manager in various departments related to this industry, I consider myself a major asset to NITA as a Board member. Being born and raised in Honduras and knowing the English language since the age of 5; I am fully fluent in both languages and I am able to read and write in them as well. I am well versed in all aspects that this Board position requires and have added qualities and skills to bring to the team and association such as: Website building, Computer skills in most programs and audio-visual skills.
I feel fully comfortable holding a position like this as it is important to have social skills as well as public speaking skills. My public speaking experience includes hosting training sessions, recruiting and being a crew member to several Anthony Robbins seminars. I have been preparing for the Federal Court Exam for the past 8 years. Current student with UCSD under the T&I program. I consider myself well-traveled due to having the opportunity of living in or visiting places such as: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Italy, France, Honduras and a vast majority of the US. In my experience it is key in engaging with individuals while being part of an Executive committee in any association or organization.
Secretary - email: Contact the Secretary
(Term TBA)
TBA
Director Cadence Reed
(Term 2024-2026) directorreed@nitanv.org
Ispent my summers in Spain growing up, where my interest and passion for the Spanish language began.
I hold a B.A in Spanish from Cal Poly Humboldt, and spent a year studying abroad at the University of Barcelona.
After my undergraduate studies I spent 10 years in education teaching Spanish and English as a Second Language where I also served as a staff interpreter within the school.
In 2023 I joined NITA, began working as a freelance Spanish Medical Interpreter and completed my medical interpreter qualification training. I currently work for Renown Health in Reno, Nevada as staff interpreter.
In my free time I enjoy international travel, writing poetry, spending time with my friends & dog, creating art, practicing yoga, and various outdoor sports including mountain biking, backpacking, skiing, and rock climbing.
Director Alejandra Loyola
Director - email: Contact Director Loyola
(Term 2024-2026)
I have been a medical interpreter for the past 16 years. I became nationally certified in 2016 through CCHI. I graduated from the University of Reno, Nevada in 2020 with a B.A in Spanish. I’m a staff interpreter for Barton Hospital in South Lake Tahoe. I lived in South Lake Tahoe for most of my life, but moved to Carson City in 2016. I also work as a freelance interpreter in California and Nevada.
I have attended several of the NITA get togethers and have truly enjoyed meeting other colleagues and talking about our experiences and what changes need to take place. This is one of the reasons I decided to run as a director. I know that together we can continue to make progress. When I’m not working, I love spending time with friends and family. I have a daughter and two silly dogs who enjoy the outdoors. I enjoy hiking, paddle boarding, yoga and relaxing at home.
Director Tatyana Vargason
Director - email: Contact Director Vargason
(Term 2023-2025)
Is a Russian Interpreter in the State of Nevada. Currently She is on the roster with the Supreme Court of Nevada as a conditionally approved interpreter for Russian language. She holds a master’s degree in Russian Legal Studies. She graduated from Saratov State Academy of Law in 2003 in Russia, and in 2008, from Salt Lake Community College in the USA.
Her career as an interpreter started in the state of Utah, where she volunteered at the Asian Association, the YWCA and at the Salt Lake Community College. Aside from work she likes to spend time with her family & bring blankets to the Henderson Animal Shelter.
Director Kristina Manukyan
Director - email: Contact Director Manukyan
(Term 2024-2026)
I am currently working at the College of Southern Nevada as a Mentor/ Tutor of Russian and ESL Programs. I know languages (Armenian, Russian, English) which help me better understand, listen and support students from diverse back grounds to accomplish their goals. I worked in Legal Department of National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia as a Senior Lawyer and analyzed legislative projects. Worked as a teacher of World History in High School in Armenia. I believe that working in NITA would provides the opportunity to combine my professional expertise with my passion for making a difference.
I hold a master’s degree in Jurisprudence from Russian/Armenian Slavonic University in 2011 in Armenia, and in 1996 got Bachelor of Arts in History and Social Education from Vanadzor State Pedagogical Institute. I got Certificate of Completion in Paralegal Program from UNLV/Continuing Education in 2022, Aside from work I like spend time with my family and friends, walk my dog, do Pilates and cook, especially during holidays.
