Efren Garcia

Efren Garcia is a Policy Analyst at the Bell Policy Center, where he focuses on housing, wealth building, and economic mobility across Colorado. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, he moved to Aurora in 2022 to pursue his Master of Public Health in Health Systems, Management & Policy at the Colorado School of Public Health and is now a DrPH student in Environmental and Occupational Health. His research and policy interests center on the built environment—specifically the intersections of health, housing, transit, and climate. 

Efren has worked across academia, nonprofits, and local government in roles involving research, program coordination, implementation, and policy advocacy. His work is grounded in a deep commitment to racial justice and health equity, particularly for immigrant, working-class, and underrepresented communities. He also serves on the Student Voice Coalition and Youth Advisory Board with Young Invincibles, helping advance youth-driven health and education priorities. 

As a first-generation Chicano and child of Mexican immigrants, Efren’s lived experiences shape his values, leadership, and mission in public health. He takes pride in representing his community and expanding opportunities for families like his. Outside of work and school, he enjoys exploring Colorado with his partner, Fatima, and their energetic puppy, Chencho.