BRIDGE SCHOLARS STAFF

Hometown: Kansas City, KS

Welcome to Brown! My name is Frank (or Tío/Uncle Frank to some), and I’m the Inaugural Associate Director of the Bridge Scholars Program here at Brown. (Sounds cool, right? 😉) First and foremost, I’m here to support and uplift students like you—students with dreams, talents, and the resilience to thrive, even when the road gets tough.

As a first-generation, low-income college student myself, I know exactly how it feels to step into the unknown. My journey taught me the value of community, self-belief, and the importance of leaning on others when needed.

My work is inspired by the principle of "caring for the whole person," a value I carry deeply from my background as a social worker. My mission? To design programs that celebrate YOUR uniqueness, create spaces where YOU feel comfortable being YOUR whole self, and to support YOUR growth as a leader both on and off campus.

Let’s be real—college can be a unique challenge. It’s exciting, overwhelming, and full of opportunities to grow. I’ve been there—navigating my own undergraduate years mostly on my own, mostly confused, and let’s just say it wasn’t a straight path! It took me 6.5 years and 3 transfers before I finally walked across the stage to accept my diploma. Those years were tough, but they prepared me for this work: helping students like you find your way and achieve your dreams.

The best part? You won’t have to do it alone. YOU have ME, and I’ll be here every step of the way. Your Uncle Frank is bringing a whole village of supportive colleagues, peers, and student leaders with me, all ready to cheer you on. Together, we’re going to build a "BRIDGE" (see what I did there?) full of memories, support, challenges, encouragement, and ultimately…your graduation day!

So, I have one question: Are you ready to start this journey of discovery, growth, and achievement—together? Just know I absolutely am. I can't wait to meet you!