Maridarlyn “Mari” Gonzalez is a research officer with Pew’s Philadelphia Research and Policy Initiative, where she focuses on immigration, equitable infrastructure, and economic development. Her work sits at the intersection of data, place, and people. Translating research into insights that support more just and connected communities.
Mari brings experience across housing, transportation, public engagement, and community development. Prior to joining Pew, she worked in emergency shelters, managed a bi-state housing and energy conservation program, and supported transportation planning and English proficiency initiatives at the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission.
Beyond her research, Mari is deeply engaged in civic and nonprofit leadership. She serves as LULAC’s first-ever State Director for Pennsylvania. In her previous role as President of the Board for Philadelphia’s League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) council, she launched impactful programming through the Café Con Leche Series, expand the annual scholarship program to the trades, and led the creation of a language access map used by poll workers to better deploy interpreters. She also co-chairs the City of Philadelphia Office of Immigration Affairs’ Welcoming Committee, advancing inclusive policies and practices for immigrant communities across the city.
Mari serves on the boards of We Love Philly, Xiente, and Riverfront North Partnership, contributing her expertise in community development, civic engagement, and equitable infrastructure. She is also a member of the 250th Philadelphia Women’s Committee and the Pennsylvania Society, reflecting her commitment to civic life, leadership, and regional stewardship.
Professionally, Mari is a member of the Urban Land Institute (ULI), where she previously served as ULI Americas Young Leaders Group DEI Co-Chair, overseeing programs across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. She currently serves as Co-Chair of ULI Philadelphia’s Technical Assistance Panel (TAP) Committee, where she advocates for equitable development and encourages stakeholders to view cities and neighborhoods as interconnected ecosystems.
Mari holds a bachelor’s degree in geoscience, energy, and policy from Penn State University and a master’s degree in geospatial technology and geodesign from Thomas Jefferson University. Of all her accomplishments, she is most proud of her roots, growing up between the Dominican Republic and North Philadelphia, experiences that shaped her resilience, creativity, and enduring commitment to equity-driven work.
