Staff: Jorge Jiménez

Growing up in El Paso, Texas Jorge’s two brothers, librarian mother, and ever inquisitive father taught him the importance of education and persistence. While attending the University of New Mexico he was able to experience different parts of the country, and the world, including Lebanon and Egypt. During university he worked with toddlers and children on the autism spectrum while simultaneously mentoring high school students in a college prep program geared towards Latinx and disenfranchised populations. He completed his degree in International Studies: Conflict Peace and Diplomacy and was selected to join the Peace Corps. Jorge served as a community organization and economic development volunteer in El Salvador, working with local women and youth groups. He also served as the project manager of Vitals: “Men as Partners Training,” focusing on topics of gender equality, sexual health/education, and understanding masculinity. Jorge expanded his reach by working with refugees through Caritas of Austin as an employment specialist. Through these experiences he learned the importance of access to all forms of education and its related benefits.