Vivian graduated with honors from Sonora Technological Institute (ITSON), with a bachelor's degree of Civil Engineer. After graduation she completed a master’s degree in Natural Resources and then a PhD in Ecohydrology. She started her early career working as a Project Manager for a water and sewer utility company, position in which she developed a passion for water resources management. During her master’s degree and PhD, Vivian taught civil engineer and science courses at international universities in Mexico. During this time, she worked for a consulting firm in projects related to water resource management and efficiency. After completing her PhD, she studied the effects of extreme climate related events on water availability and urban infrastructure. Before joining ASU, she served in administrative positions in Mexican and U.S. Universities and international non-profit organizations. Vivian has published in peer reviewed journals and is very passionate about water sustainability, a field in which she has more than 10 years of experience.