As an equity-focused professional with experience in mission-driven organizations, José uses his expertise in communications, facilitation, and program management to advance inclusive, equitable searches with clients. He brings a critical lens and equity-centered approach to his role as Associate at Talent Citizen.
José has devoted his entire career to working with organizations at the intersection of education equity, leadership development, and social justice. His career started as a middle school teacher serving majority Black and Brown communities in Dallas, Texas through the University of Notre Dame’s ACE Teaching Fellows program. He then transitioned to the nonprofit sector in his home state of North Carolina, managing an identity and leadership development youth program at LatinxEd while teaching as an adjunct instructor at the University of North Carolina School of Education. Before joining Talent Citizen, José worked at Occidental College in Los Angeles as an education specialist in the Office of Equity & Justice to influence and inform strategic and structural equity efforts, including hiring policies and practices. These experiences have informed his perspective on intersectional issues across systems and furthered his desire to create fruitful partnerships that advance the mission of social impact organizations.
Outside of work, José serves on a task force with the UNC DREAM (Diverse and Resilient Educators Advised through Mentorship) program to recruit, educate, and place diverse teachers into high-needs schools in Durham Public Schools. Previously, he also served on the board of Pupusas for Education, an organization providing holistic support services to serve the needs and dreams of North Carolina’s marginalized youth. During his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, cooking, dancing, and exploring the cultural richness of Los Angeles.
José earned a B.A. in History with a minor in Education from UNC-Chapel Hill, as well as a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree from the University of Notre Dame. Most recently, he became a SHRM-Certified Professional.
