Candidate for
Governing Board Member; Rio Hondo Community College District; Trustee Area 3

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to participate in your forum. First, I am a proud graduate of Rio Hondo College (2003). I capped my collegiate experience at RHC as ASB Treasurer (03'), wrestling team captain, and a college "All-American." In 2006, I achieved my B.A. in Political Science from San Francisco State University. During my tenure at SF State, I was a "Scholar Athlete" and "Academic All-American." I completed my undergraduate studies at Uppsala University in Uppsala, Sweden and in 2007, was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to teach in Saint Poelten, Austria. In 2011, I completed my graduate studies at Cal State Long Beach and received a Masters Degree in Political Science. I finalized my graduate study at the Institute of Politics of Inequality, Race, and Ethnicity at Stanford University on a research fellowship.

Education is an important part of every community, but especially ours. To be a servant of example, in addition to obtaining my degree, I have gone above and beyond in my own education. I have received the Sally Casanova Pre-Doctoral Fellowship in 2010-2011. I served as a Fulbright Scholar in 2007-2008 and am a member of Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society.

My heart for education and community can be seen in my coaching of San Gabriel Wrestling Kids Club in El Monte, New Breed Academy in Santa Fe Springs, and Hilti Academy in Sweden. I have enjoyed my time as a mentor to At Risk Kids in El Monte.

Currently, I am a licensed contractor, teach American Government as an Adjunct Professor for the Los Angeles Community College District, and serve on the Planning Commission for the City of South El Monte. During my tenure as Planning Commissioner, the city has had progressive growth, approved housing developments of approximately 150 new homes, and has had a balanced budget.