As Women's History Month comes to a close we’re reminded that the power, resilience, and leadership of women deserve to be recognized every single day, not just in March. At The LGBTQ Center, Women's History Month isn’t just a time for reflection, it's a time for recognition. It’s about honoring the women of our past and the ones making history right now. The ones showing up with passion, advocacy, and heart. The ones who build community challenge systems and remind us that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and loved.
This month we asked some of the incredible women of The Center to reflect on what their work means to them and how they bring that mission to life each and every day. Their words speak volumes about the impact they make and the compassion they lead with.
Here are their voices.
Aryanna Claiborne
(She/Her/Hers), Medical Receptionist
What she loves:
The opportunity to connect with the community on a personal level. It’s so rewarding to see people embrace who they are and to help create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Her impact:
Supporting individuals at all stages of their journey is truly fulfilling. I love knowing that I can play a small part in making a positive impact in their lives.
Words of inspiration:
“Be yourself!”
Veronica Arana
(She/Her/Hers), Director of Clinical Operations
What she loves:
The Center isn’t just a healthcare space—it’s a place where people feel safe, seen, and cared for. I get to be part of an extraordinary team that leads with compassion.
Her impact:
My role is about ensuring patients receive not just treatment, but an experience of care and dignity. Seeing patients take charge of their health keeps me going.
Words of inspiration:
“Keep showing up. For yourself, for others, for what matters.”
AJ Huth
(She/They), Director of Public Affairs and Civic Engagement
What she loves:
Connecting the LGBTQ+ community to the broader Las Vegas community and showing that a diverse population is a healthy population.
Her impact:
Whether it’s educating providers or hugging someone on a rough day, advocacy happens in many forms. I know I’ve helped make Las Vegas a safer place.
Words of inspiration:
“Lead with kindness—it can make all the difference.”
Acintia Wright
(She/Her/Hers), HIV Advocate
What she loves:
The exceptional work we do to accommodate everyone who walks through our doors. We are the wraparound services our communities need.
Her impact:
Empowering women to take charge of their health and know their status. We’ve had to fight for so much, and now we get to stand up and be heard!
Words of inspiration:
“Take this life and be productive in all that you do!”
Leana M. Ramirez, PharmD, AAHIVP, CSP
(She/Her/Hers), Chief Clinical Officer
What she loves:
“The Center is where passion and purpose meet. Every day I get to help create a space where people feel valued and uplifted.
Her impact:
From shaping policies to securing resources, my work helps build a healthier and more inclusive future for our community.
Words of inspiration:
“The power to create change starts with a single step—so take it, and keep moving forward.”
Holly Reese
(She/Her/Hers), Senior Director of Programs
What she loves:
Every day, I get to stand in the gap for those who need support, visibility, and affirmation. It’s about building community and restoring hope.
Her impact:
My work transforms lives—from young LGBTQ+ people finding belonging to survivors receiving trauma-informed care.
Words of inspiration:
“To the women and nonbinary individuals still finding their place: You belong. You are worthy. Never underestimate the power of your presence.”
Liz Mendoza
(She/Her/Hers), Medical Assistant
What she loves:
A supportive work environment where both patients and staff feel safe and heard. That matters deeply.
Her impact:
Seeing patients go from anxious to empowered just by being treated with respect and kindness—that’s everything.
Words of inspiration:
“Be the reason someone smiles today.”
Kristina Gengler
(She/Her/Hers), Program Administrative Coordinator
What she loves:
Connecting with people from all walks of life. Helping those who are less fortunate isn’t just work—it’s my purpose.
Her impact:
In crisis, people need to feel heard and valued. Offering dignity and compassion can change a life.
Words of inspiration:
“Lead with kindness. The impact may not always be visible, but it is always meaningful.”
As we turn the page on Women’s History Month, we hold onto these stories. These truths. These hearts. The women of The Center are leaders, caregivers, visionaries, and changemakers. They remind us that history isn’t only written in textbooks—it’s being lived every day in the hallways of The Center.
To every woman in our community: We see you. We honor you. And we thank you.
