About Cesar
Leadership shaped by community, curiosity, and lived experience.
My leadership is shaped by a belief that lasting change happens when institutions invest in community wisdom, build authentic partnerships, and align their resources with the people they seek to serve.
My Story
Building stronger institutions through community-centered leadership.
My work is grounded in a belief that people closest to challenges should have meaningful power in shaping solutions. Across philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, housing justice, economic mobility, and community investment, I have focused on helping institutions become more responsive, effective, and accountable to the communities they serve.
Today, I serve as Executive Vice President of Membership & Impact at UpTogether, where I oversee strategy and operations spanning member experience, community investment, fund delivery, product, technology, analytics, and research. My work focuses on building the teams, systems, and partnerships needed to translate ambitious ideas into measurable impact.
My path has also been shaped by lived experience. As a formerly undocumented young person from a low-income community, I understand the difference that trust, belonging, and opportunity can make. That perspective continues to ground how I lead, build relationships, and think about institutional responsibility.
Beyond Work
Curiosity extends beyond my professional life.
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, exploring places with rich history and culture, learning new things, and spending time with my husband, family, friends, and our rescue dog, Nathan.
Those experiences continue to shape how I lead: with curiosity, humility, and a deep appreciation for the stories, places, and relationships that help people feel rooted and connected.
