Sergio Contreras, Jr.
Exec. Director, Fmr Councilman & School President
United for Student Success, Orange County United Way
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
As a first generation college grad, education changed my life. I had a passion for helping others, I majored in Criminal Justice because I wanted to help improve my community and keep it safe.
In college, I interned at Orange County Juvenile Hall, it was then I realized I wanted to do more to help ALL students stay track to graduate high school on-time, college & career ready.
I ran for Westminster School Board because I saw it as the best way I could help uplift my community through strong schools that increased learning opportunities for our most underserved students..
I ran for elected office THREE times before I was elected to serve in public office. I didn't give up on my dream and became the FIRST elected Latino to serve on the Westminster school board.
After seven years on the Board I was appointed President, increased access to technology and learning opportunities for our first gen students and families.
My desire to help my community kept growing. I wanted to do more. I ran for Westminster City Council and became FIRST elected Latino to serve on the city council.
I was also elected to serve on the Midway City Sanitary District to protect and improve the health and safety of our community.
Today, I am Executive Director of United for Student Success at the OC United Way where I work to build equity to increase Orange County graduation rate for socio-economically disadvantaged students..
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Westminster
Westminster
Bachelor
Criminal Justice
California State University-Long Beach
Criminal Justice
California State University-Long Beach
Career
Exec. Director, Fmr Councilman & School President
I work to build equity to increase Orange County graduation rate for socio-economically disadvantaged students.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Government
Politics
Helping People
Day to Day
Everyday is different. ALL constituent problems are important. As a leader, you get to prioritize, balance and make the most of your resources. You don't get to say "I don't know". You get to help people find what they need by navigating through bureaucracy. Doing your best to help solve problems.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
To prepare as early as possible. Align your passion with your vision. Get involved in different community and school organizations. Learn your community's needs and attempt to fulfill them. Be of service. Volunteer often, and help others. Get out there!
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Bachelor
Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"You shouldn't run for public office. It will be too hard and it is not worth it. You won't win. "
Challenges I Overcame
Financial
Gangs / Violence
First-Generation Immigrant
