In addition to a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in sociology from Portland State University, Ricardo has more than 20 years’ experience working with people in poverty and those facing educational and economic challenges. Ricardo is bilingual in English and Spanish. His work experience includes providing services to marginalized youth, people with limited career training or traditional education, as well as underserved Latino students. Ricardo was born and raised in SE Los Angeles by his single grandmother on fixed income. Growing up, Ricardo faced many of the same challenges our families are facing now. This gives him a unique perspective and the opportunity to be empathetic to the many barriers our families are facing as we partner with them for a brighter future.