Directory

Laura Villegas earned her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from JTL University in Bogotá, Colombia, and a Master of Political and International Studies from the University of Rosario. After moving to the United States, she completed her Master of Social Work and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management & Leadership at the University of Georgia, where she is now pursuing her Ph.D. in Social Work.

Her passion for social justice began in Colombia, where she spent over 15 years working in humanitarian aid, public policy, and community development for people affected by armed conflict, displacement, and exploitation. She has collaborated with nonprofits, government agencies, and international organizations to expand access to social services, create trauma-informed programs, and support survivors of armed conflict and violence. At UGA, Laura works with the Center on Human Trafficking Research & Outreach and has also supported survivors locally through the nonprofit DIVAS Who Win. Her research interests include trauma-informed care, community-led solutions, and social inclusion for displaced and marginalized populations.