For over twenty years, José has worked diligently in our schools and community as an educator, youth athletics coach, youth and community advocate, consultant to law enforcement and social services agencies, political organizer and founder of a non-profit organization.

As an educator, José began his career serving as a high school counselor with the Bethlehem Area School District in 1987. In this capacity he designed and implemented a peer-counseling program for troubled students. As the program director, José encouraged his students to create and facilitate the Listen Up Talk Show Program. Through this forum, his students were empowered and took on leadership roles in the school. Topics included many of the factors that contribute to the detriment of our troubled teens. Program guests included teachers, parents, community leaders and law-enforcement and social services personnel. Upon graduating from high school, many of his students went on to college.

After serving as a middle school counselor for one year, José transitioned into an administrative role as a middle school assistant principal. He continues to serve in this capacity. At the collegiate level, José has taught a Criminology course at Warren County Community College in New Jersey.

A product of the welfare system and public housing, José underachieved in school and encountered trouble on the streets. As such, José had to overcome many of the factors he speaks on.

Fortunately, one year after graduating from high school, his mentor encouraged him to enroll in college. Four years later, José graduated with a B. A. in Sociology / Criminal Justice Administration from East Stroudsburg University. He also earned a M.Ed. in Counseling from Lehigh University and his Principal Certification from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Having fathered a child at the age of nineteen - his wife Margarita was seventeen - José fully understands the challenges confronting teen parents. Twenty-four years later, José and his wife are happily married and the proud parents of three grown children.

His passion to make a positive difference in the lives of others, especially our young people, has never wavered.