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Welcome
I am a proud first-generation Mexican-American student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at The Ohio State University, with a focus on the Pre-Law track. My passion for law and politics stems from a deep commitment to advocating for marginalized communities and influencing equitable policies that amplify unheard voices.
As a young leader, I bring a proactive approach and a balanced, bipartisan perspective to navigating today's complex political landscape. Beyond academics, I channel my creativity through photography, managing my own platform to showcase my work and explore the intersection of art and advocacy.
For more details about my experiences and achievements, feel free to explore my work experience page or connect with me on LinkedIn! @JesusValencia
Ohio State University Stadium
Ohio State University Stadium
Notable Highlights
Legislative Staff: Ohio Statehouse
Since 2024, I have served inside the Ohio House of Representatives, first as a Legislative Intern to Assistant Minority Leader Jarrells, a former member of House Leadership, and now as a Legislative Page within the Democratic Caucus. I have worked hands-on in policy research, legislative operations, and constituent outreach, working hands-on in bills like the Paystub Protection Act and helping serve over 120,000 Ohioans. Being able to work in these spaces is something very personal to me. I come from both underdeveloped neighborhoods and suburban areas, and I have attended underfunded public schools, private Catholic schools, and well-resourced suburban schools. That diverse path gives me a deeper understanding of the communities we serve, across income levels, backgrounds, and political beliefs. It helps me connect with people on a real level and recognize the unique challenges they each face. I see myself in the people we serve, and that drives me to show up with purpose.
More educational experiences can be found by visiting this link.
Commissioner: City of Columbus
Appointed by Columbus City Council, I serve as a Commissioner on the City’s Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs. It is an honor to work with the City and be part of a larger mission focused on protecting and uplifting the very community that helps shape the heart of Columbus. This position is not only about making a real impact, it is about making sure that the impact has the best interest of Columbus's lively Immigrant and Refugee community in mind. For me, this work is personal. I am the son of immigrants myself, and I grew up watching my family navigate systems that were not built for us. I remember how confusing and intimidating local government felt when no one looked like us, spoke like us, or even tried to understand us. Now, I bring that perspective into all the spaces I am fortunate enough to be a part of, speaking up for families like mine, families who deserve to feel safe, supported, and seen. My goal in this role is to make sure this City works for and serves everyone who calls it home.
More certifications can be found by visiting this link.
National Photography Honoree
I was honored to receive a National Gold Medal in Photography from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, placing in the top 1% of over 260,000 submissions. That meant a lot, not just as a recognition of my work, but because I grew up without access to fancy cameras or editing gear. I taught myself using what I had, and slowly turned photography into a tool for storytelling, memory, and truth. I want to make that same creative freedom more accessible for others one day. For me, photography is much more than art; it has been about documenting life, seeing beauty in everyday moments, and giving others the chance to do the same.
More educational experiences can be found by visiting this link.
National Policy & Economics Scholar
I was selected as a The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) scholar, a highly competitive D.C.-based program that brings together students from across the country to intern and study on Capitol Hill and George Mason University. Within TFAS, I was accepted into their even more selective Public Policy and Economics Scholars track. This specialization, offered to a small group of students nationwide, is designed for emerging leaders interested in shaping policy through a deeper understanding of economics and governance. Earning a spot in this program affirmed the strength of my background in public service, research, and community advocacy. Being recognized at this level sharpened my perspective and further validated the work I am doing to understand policy and use it with purpose.
More honors can be found by visiting this link.
Founder: Digital Civic Nonprofit
While studying Political Science and Public Policy—and getting involved in local and state government—I started learning a lot about how politics really works. And the more I learned, the more I realized how much of this stuff should not be reserved for classrooms or government buildings. It felt too important not to share. That is why I started this nonprofit—to help everyday people, especially those who do not always have the time or access, understand what is going on in the systems that affect them. Through graphics, explainers, and creative campaigns, I try to make political education feel more real and less overwhelming. I use design and media to break things down in a way that is engaging and approachable, so that everyday people can easily understand what is going on politically, and become educated on these topics and terminologies. At the end of the day, this is not only about content; this is about connection, accessibility, and helping people feel like they actually have a place in the political realm.
More of my portfolio can be found by visiting this link.
International Diversity Delegate
Through The Ohio State University, I was honored to be 1 of only 3 scholars selected to represent our institution at the National Student Leadership Diversity Convention (NSLDC) in Orlando, FL. This was truly a chance to reflect on identity, justice, and leadership through a national lens. I connected with students from across the Continent who are also trying to push their campuses forward. What stood out most was how much power there is in shared experience, and how important it is to lead in ways that center people's realities. I left that space feeling more grounded in my purpose and more committed to creating systems that do not just include people but truly support them. In the end, we were able to create actionable plans that we presented with the Deans of our respective institutions to be implemented and made into Diversity and Inclusion goals for our Universities.
More educational experiences can be found by visiting this link.
Experience & Vision
My resume can be viewed here or on my resume page.
JAV_ResumePage updated
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