Antonio Valenzuela (he/they) is an Environment and Science Program Associate supporting Ocean initiative grantmaking in Asia.
Antonio has over 10 years of experience in mission-driven organizations in the higher education and nonprofit sectors, working and collaborating with public universities, community colleges, and nonprofits in Arizona, California, nationally, and in Mexico. Prior to joining the Foundation, they served as Development and Operations Manager at a small nonprofit doing grassroots organizing and advocacy around issues impacting LGBTQIA+ Latinx immigrants and migrants. Throughout their career, Antonio has served as a Program Coordinator, Academic Advisor to Plant Science students, Legal Assistant supporting asylum seekers, Data Services Manager, Development and Operations Coordinator, and nonprofit board Treasurer. They have expertise in nonprofit management and operations, grant writing, organizational development, LGBTQIA+ immigrant rights organizing, data management and analysis, immigration legal services, college student services, and academic administration.
Antonio holds a master’s degree in Higher Education and a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law, both from the University of Arizona. Outside of work, they enjoy solo traveling and staying in hostels, writing poems, reading James Baldwin books, singing, strength training, and being in community with chosen family.