Guadalupe (Pitta) Higadera Zulker

Guadalupe “Pitta” Higadera is a proud American, combat veteran, and advocate for healing-centered communities. Raised in a rural Mexican village by her grandparents, she was shaped by the values of humility, service, and resilience. After 9/11, she enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving nearly a decade in Security Forces, where she trained Airmen in public safety, and tactical readiness. She completed her service at Tinker Air Force Base and remained in Oklahoma, drawn by the strength of its people.

With degrees in Criminal Justice, Medical Laboratory Technology, and Biology, along with a degree in Microbiology from the University of Oklahoma. She worked as a laboratory technician in high-level clinical settings, specializing in nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection. Her work in clinical and research labs, including viral diagnostics and organ transplant safety, applied scientific precision to support life-saving care. Diagnosed with PTSD and ADHD, Guadalupe transformed her healing journey into a mission. She now serves as a speaker and panelist on veteran mental health, stigma, and PTSD, using her lived experience to educate others and advocate for trauma-informed care.

She has served on the Board of Manos Juntas Free Clinic and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Passionate about equity, mentorship, and advocacy, Guadalupe is dedicated to creating safe, supportive environments where veterans can thrive. She finds joy in nature, music, and helping others rediscover their voice, their healing, and their power.