Project Manager, Information Services
 Eagleton Institute of Politics, Rutgers University

Gilda Morales is project manager of information services at the Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP). She is responsible for the research, collection and organization of current and historical information about women's political participation nationwide. Managing teams of student workers and volunteers year-round, Gilda plays a pivotal role at the heart of the Center. Steeped in knowledge about women candidates and officeholders, she regularly responds to inquiries from the media, scholars, activists, officeholders and the general public. Prior to joining the CAWP team, Gilda worked in banking for more than twenty years as an accountant.    

Gilda earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science and women's studies from Douglass College, Rutgers University and a master's degree in public administration at Rutgers University. After completing her own studies, Gilda remained active on campus as a member of the Institute for Women's Leadership (IWL) Leaders Scholars Program Board (2002-2007) and as an advisor to the Women's Political Caucus of New Jersey at Rutgers University (1995-present). Each year, the Department of Women's and Gender Studies presents the Gilda Morales Award for Outstanding Student Activist in her honor.

Serving as a leader and engaging other women in the political process has been a constant in Gilda's life since 1990 when she and 24 other aspiring women leaders in business, government and higher education were invited to participate in the Hispanic Women Leadership Institute.

She currently serves as a member of the Piscataway Township Zoning Board of Adjustments (2012-present) and Middlesex County Democratic Committeewoman (2007-present). To elevate the political prospects of women of Hispanic heritage, she helped found Latinas United for Political Empowerment (LUPE), now the LUPE Fund, Inc., serving on their board of directors from 1999 through 2013. Over the years, she has served in a variety of leadership roles with the National Women's Political Caucus and Women's Political Caucus-New Jersey, including:

• National Women's Political Caucus (NWPC): Political Planning Committee (1999-2005, 2007-2012); Vice President, Political Planning Committee (2009-2011); and Vice Chair, Hispanic Caucus (1997-1999).

• Women's Political Caucus of New Jersey (WPCNJ): Information Resources Chair (2007-2012); Legislative Chair (2001-2002); Political Resources Chair (1999-2005); Board Secretary, (1996-1999).