Dr. Mary Ann M. Palencia is a distinguished educator, researcher, and community leader with over 22 years of teaching experience across the Philippines and the United States. Hailing from Balingayan, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, she has dedicated her career to making science accessible, engaging, and inclusive—especially for “at-promise” learners in trauma-informed schools.

A proud alumna of the Philippine Normal University (PNU), Batch 2003, where she earned her Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Secondary Education, Major in Science as a CHED-CITE scholar, Dr. Palencia credits PNU with nurturing her foundational skills, fostering her love for teaching, and instilling a deep commitment to community service. She has carried the university’s ethos of excellence and Filipino pride into every facet of her professional journey.

She further honed her expertise through a Special Education course at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), a Master’s and Doctor of Education in Educational Management from Philippine Christian University (PCU)—where her dissertation, A Strategic Model for School Administrators in Establishing and Sustaining Trauma-Informed Educational Practices, received international recognition—and a Master of Management in Educational Management from PCU. Her continuous learning also includes specialized certifications from the University of San Diego, University of California–Los Angeles, and University of Baguio, reflecting her lifelong commitment to educational excellence.

Currently a Biology and Academy Teacher at La Vista/La Sierra High Schools in Fullerton, California, Dr. Palencia has pioneered innovative programs such as annual Science Fairs, STEAM Week, Science Symposia, and student exhibitions. Her exceptional teaching and leadership have been recognized through awards, including Fullerton Joint Union High School District Teacher of the Year (2019), La Vista High School Teacher of the Year (2019), and Orange County & Schools First Federal Credit Union Teacher of the Year – Teaching with 20/20 Vision Award, California.

Beyond her classroom, Dr. Palencia amplifies the values she embraced at PNU on the global stage. As Founding President of the United Federation of Fil-Am Educators – Los Angeles–Orange County Chapter (UNIFFIED-LAOC) and Public Relations Officer of the Philippine Normal University Global Alumni Association (PNUGAA), she spearheads initiatives that embody PNU’s mission: building libraries in underserved Philippine schools, providing teacher training, offering scholarships, and organizing community service projects. Through these efforts, she not only gives back to the communities that shaped her but also elevates PNU’s presence internationally, turning her global platforms into avenues for Filipino educational leadership.

Dr. Palencia’s achievements have earned her accolades such as the Trailblazer Award in Global Educational Leadership and Humanitarian Service at the Amerika Prestige Awards, the Women of Worth Award in Educational Leadership from the California Legislature Assembly, the 2025 Gawad Sulo for Eminent Alumni from PNU–Manila, and multiple recognitions from UNIFFIED-LAOC.

At the heart of her journey is her family: her husband, Engr. Charles Palencia, and their children, CJ and Tyler, who inspire her daily. Her commitment to family mirrors her dedication to teaching, mentoring, and community-building, reflecting her belief that education begins at home and extends outward, transforming lives while carrying the proud legacy of PNU across the globe.