Maria Cuevas Mateo

Immigration Civil Legal Advocate at The Bronx Defenders with strong skills in research analysis and communication. Proven track record in building compelling cases through thorough record retrieval and collaboration. Committed to empowering marginalized communities and enhancing public speaking as Head Debate Coach, creating a supportive environment for student development. Bilingual in Spanish, facilitating effective outreach and advocacy.

• Champion of the University of Pennsylvania Congressional Debate Tournament
• 4th Place finalist at the National Speech and Debate Season Opener
• Semi-finalist at the Tournament of Champions for Congressional Debate
• Semifinalist and Borough Leader at W!SE Quality of Life Innovations Program
• Nation Hispanic and African American Recognition Program
• AP Scholar with Distinction (Highest AP Award)

Yale Debate Association/ Development Committee Member

• Support business, alumni, and public relations efforts, contributing 2–3 hours/week across subcommittees.
• Planned alumni reunion events, secured sponsorships, managed social media, and organized internal/external events.

YMUN LII/ Vice Chair

• Served as Vice Chair for a high school Model UN conference, guiding debate, enforcing parliamentary procedure, and supporting delegates.
• Assisted the Chair with research, resolution review, and maintaining an engaging and educational committee environment.

NYC Civilian Complaints Review Board/ Youth Council Member

• Advised CCRB about efforts to engage young New Yorkers in police-community relations
• Planned and Coordinated policing Youth Summit with 10+ countries in attendance.

NYC DOE/ Student Wellness Advocate

• Informed wellness policy updates that impact over 1851 schools & 1 million students
• Recommended policy accessibility for low-income schools.