As a Ph.D. holder, Carlos Osvaldo Cortez is a well educated and dedicated professional who has influenced the lives of thousands. He is currently the president of San Diego Continuing Education, a major division of the local community college system. His dedication to POC and low-income students has been a constant motivator for his work in the educational field. His own education has reflected his passions and interests, centering the role of educators and administrators of color in the development of social welfare and educational policy. He understands the importance of policy and has worked closely with policy-makers as well. Beyond his work, he is an avid reader.