|
Current Position:
Program Specialist, NYC Department of Youth & Community Development (Fatherhood Initiative)
How did your time at the School of Social Welfare shape your path?
I’m incredibly grateful that I took that leap to get into SSW. As a Dominican kid from the Bronx, I found graduate school unfamiliar and intimidating. My parents, both hardworking immigrants, instilled in me resilience, faith, and a deep respect for my community. Watching their sacrifices shaped my desire to serve families like my own. SSW strengthened my foundation in both clinical practice and macro-level systems work. It sharpened my understanding of how policy, community dynamics, and direct practice intersect. That dual lens continues to guide me today as I navigate citywide systems that impact families across New York City.
Pivotal moment or lesson that still sticks with you:
Baseball was always my first plan; I never really had a plan B. After completing my BA at Lehman College and being accepted to Stony Brook, I was unsure whether I could complete a master’s program. On my first day of class, Professor Michelle Ballan said something that still resonates with me: “Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t belong, that you’re not worthy, or that you can’t make money in social work". That affirmation shifted something in me. Combined with my field education experience, where I learned the value of reflective supervision, ethical leadership, and intentional mentorship, I began to see myself not just as a student but as a professional in the making.
What kind of work are you currently doing, and what excites you about it?
I currently oversee fatherhood programming across New York City, supporting contracted providers who serve fathers working toward economic stability, healthy relationships, and active parenting. I also support curriculum training and implementation to ensure program quality and consistency. On a personal level, my father’s battle with Alzheimer’s profoundly shaped how I view fatherhood, dignity, and legacy. Walking alongside him during that journey reminded me that fathers are far more than providers; they are anchors, teachers, and protectors whose presence leaves a lasting impact across generations. That lived experience guides how I approach my work. It compels me to affirm the humanity of the fathers we serve and to strengthen families holistically, as I continue to serve mi gente with both purpose.
Skills or perspectives you gained that you later appreciated:
Systems thinking, policy analysis, and documentation skills became invaluable once I entered city government. What once felt purely academic now informs how I evaluate programs, interpret regulations, and ensure quality service delivery. Pairing those technical skills with cultural humility and community connection has been essential to my leadership.
Advice to your student self:
Be patient with your growth and stay grounded in your values. Focus on mastering core skills: writing, ethical decision-making, and professional boundaries. Those fundamentals become the backbone of leadership. As it is said, “Vísteme despacio, porque voy de prisa.” Move with intention.
Message to current students:
Embrace the learning curve. Remember who you are and where you come from. Growth often happens in moments of discomfort. Stay connected to your purpose and the people who got you here, build strong professional relationships, and understand that social work requires both compassion and courage, especially when advocating within larger systems
|
