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Dr. Jose Luis Zelaya

Educator and Community Advocate

Dr. Jose Luis Zelaya

Dr. Jose Luis Zelaya is an educator, advocate, and scholar whose journey from the streets of San Pedro Sula, Honduras, to the halls of academia exemplifies the transformative power of education. Born in 1987, Dr. Zelaya immigrated to the United States at the age of 13 to reunite with his family in Houston, Texas, after experiencing extreme poverty and violence as a street child.

With the support of his mother, he enrolled in the seventh grade in 2001 and began building a new life in the U.S. In 2006, he became the first in his family to graduate from high school. Dr. Zelaya pursued higher education as a first-generation college student, earning an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts from Lone Star Community College. He went on to attend Texas A&M University, where he completed a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on English as a Second Language (ESL), and a Ph.D. in Urban Education.

Dr. Zelaya credits his academic journey to the unwavering support of his family, dedicated educators, mentors, and community, as well as his own determination and perseverance. Through his story, he illustrates the generational impact of access to higher education. He is married to Katerin Meza, and together they are the proud parents of three children: Amaris, Amael, and Amaryllis.

Panel Information

ACADEMY - Opening Session

9:00 AM

The LULAC Academy Opening Session launches the educational track for emerging Latino leaders by grounding participants in the deeper “why” behind their journey. Before diving into policy, strategy, and skill-building, we reflect on what it means to lead as a Latino changemaker today. With powerful remarks from distinguished speakers, the session celebrates Latino excellence and underscores LULAC’s commitment to education, mentorship, and leadership development. Through real stories and a collective call to action, this session sets the tone for the Academy experience—reminding us that leadership isn’t a title, it’s a choice.