José Martínez-Castellanos (He/Him/His)

My professional journey has been marked by a relentless passion for community engagement, education, and the power of effective communication. With a robust background in marketing, program coordination, and a strong foundation in operations and logistics, my commitment to driving positive change through education and community involvement has been unwavering.

I began my professional career in the educational sector as a Social Media & Content Coordinator and Family & Community Liaison at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College in Denver. In this role, I not only harnessed the influence of digital media and social platforms to create a compelling online presence but also worked diligently to foster a sense of belonging and community among students, families, and the broader public. My content creation skills extended to videography, photography, and graphic design, enabling me to bring the school’s unique identity to life.

One of my proudest accomplishments during this time was coordinating over 500 events, ranging from Back-to-School Nights to graduation ceremonies. These events served as vital touchpoints for the community, and I ensured their seamless execution through meticulous budget planning and vendor management. Furthermore, I celebrated students’ achievements, emphasizing the importance of attendance, GPA, and behavior, which positively impacted the school’s culture.

Additionally, I managed social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat. The expansion of our online presence with over 15,000 new followers reflects my ability to engage and inspire a broader audience. Coordinating press releases and tracking the success of events and campaigns were integral aspects of my work, exemplifying my commitment to data-driven decision-making and effective communication.

I extended my commitment to education and community involvement as a Student Support Team Leader and Dean of Operations at Generation Teach. In this role, I developed operational plans for a summer academy serving over 2,000 students in Denver, fostering a culture aligned with the organization’s core values. My engagement extended beyond logistics; I built meaningful relationships with students and families through restorative practices, led restorative circles, and held space for challenging conversations. I also conducted emergency response exercises, including fire drills and lockdowns, demonstrating my strong commitment to safety and preparedness.

The culmination of these experiences has solidified my dedication to educational and community initiatives. I believe that effective marketing and program coordination can amplify the impact of institutions, facilitating growth and engagement. My bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish further broadens the scope of my influence, allowing me to connect with diverse communities and enhance communication.

As I look ahead, my research interests revolve around the intersection of marketing, education, and community building. I am eager to explore innovative strategies to further bridge the gap between educational institutions and the communities they serve, creating a harmonious ecosystem that nurtures personal growth, community engagement, and collective achievement. This journey continues to be inspired by my belief in the transformative power of education and the unifying force of effective communication.

In the future, I aspire to explore research initiatives and projects that not only contribute to the growth of educational and community institutions but also drive positive change in the lives of individuals and communities. My commitment to marketing, program coordination, and community building is a testament to my dedication to creating lasting, positive impacts in the educational landscape and beyond.