Maria Socorro Gutierrez
President - email: Contact the President
(Term 2025-2027)
I have been a member of NITA for over 13 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. 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 have worked as a freelance interpreter and ESL instructor both in Mexico and the U.S.
Mieko Hirai Braun
Vice President - email: Contact the Vice President
(Term 2024-2026)
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 2024-2026)
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.
Alejandra Loyola
Secretary - email: Contact the Secretary
(2025 - 2027)
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.
MaryAnn Flowers
Director - email: Contact Director Flowers
(Term 2025 - 2027)
My name is MaryAnn Flowers, and although originally from the Philippines, I've called Las Vegas home since 2001. While I've lived in other states like Alaska and New York over the years, Nevada is where I have primarily settled.
I am a freelance Tagalog interpreter, with a bachelor’s degree in Tourism from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines. My professional journey has taken me through roles as a travel agent, bilingual customer service coordinator, and resolution specialist, where I gained valuable experience that strongly informs my interpreting work. I am currently taking assignments at the LV Municipal CourtI joined NITA in 2024, and it's been highly rewarding. I've learned so much from other members and had the amazing opportunity to work with some truly accomplished professionals. Networking has been a great way to connect with them, and their willingness to share their expertise has been incredibly helpful for me. Being relatively new to the industry, I'm so grateful for the resources and guidance this organization provides. This has inspired me to contribute with NITA to support other new or aspiring interpreters in their journey.
Irene Zevallos
Director - email: Contact Director Zevallos
(Term 2025-2027)
My name is Irene Zevallos. I am a freelance Linguist with 20 years of experience, and a postgraduate diploma in Journalism and Advertising. I have experience writing articles and studies in creative writing as well. My previous experience also includes managerial positions, as a freelance consultant on social studies and communications, and as a business consultant.
My academic background is diverse, encompassing Bilingual Executive Assistant studies completed in Lima, Peru, followed by postgraduate studies in London, UK.
My native language is Spanish, and I am fluent in English, but I didn't stop there and have continued learning other languages.I believe that my comprehensive background paired with an absolute love for languages and all forms of communication would enable me to collaborate with NITA on its purpose to help and provide resources, as well as insight and knowledge to other professionals alike and to those who show an interest in this field.
