Meet the Family: Jessica

Meet the Family Friday is back celebrating Jessica's 2-year anniversary with Upward Scholars!

Jessica is the daughter of Mexican immigrants from Southern California. She grew up in impoverished, under-resourced communities where her only options were staying in school or working under the scorching sun picking grapes alongside her family. "Like our Upward Scholars students, my family didn't have a choice when working low-wage jobs under unhealthy conditions. It was either that or your family didn't eat," she explains.

After obtaining her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Stanford University—making her the first in her family to attend and graduate college—Jessica joined the Upward Scholars team. "It is a true privilege to work with an organization whose impact is so tangible and profound, whose services my family and comunidad would have greatly benefitted from. I see my mom, tíos, and even abuelitos in our students and I want them and their kids and grandkids to have the support and knowledge my family and I didn't."

As the Marketing & Development Manager, Jessica leads our marketing and communications efforts including developing our website, social media, and newsletters, and supports the executive director with fund development. "It's incredibly rewarding to work with and for the Upward Scholars family! Helping my immigrant community thrive while expanding my knowledge and skills is something I'll always be grateful for."

Happy 2-year anniversary, Jessica! We are so proud of your growth within Upward Scholars and are thrilled to support you as you continue to develop professionally.