Meet Our Team

Joaquin Rangel

Joaquin Rangel

Founder and Executive Director

Joaquin is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin where he graduated with his Bachelors of Science from the College of Education. Since 2015 he has worked in educational settings in some way, shape, or form. As the older brother of 10 siblings, 2 of them being on the spectrum, he has an affinity towards working with children. He is an avid sports fan (Hook 'Em) and a self-proclaimed grill master who enjoys spending time with the people he cares about and ensuring that everyone feels at home.

Deborah Zertuche

President

I'm a graduate of Texas A&M University-Kingsville with a Master’s degree in Education with an Educational Diagnostician certification. I've been an educator since 2003 and have a passion for Special Education. I continuously expand my knowledge through training, workshops, and speaking to parents.

I am married, have three great children and two dogs. I enjoy spending time with family, listening to books on Audible, and watching Hallmark movies.

Sergio Elizondo

Vice President

Sergio is a graduate of Texas A&M Corpus Christi with a BA in Performing Arts. He is an administrative assistant at Del Cielo Home Care and Hospice. Sergio is very active in the animal rescue community and is a foster for Coastal Bend Cat Rescue. In his free time he attends concerts and has a keen interest in researching and archiving concert venues that were popular in the Corpus Christi area. Sergio is from a small town and has always treasured his strong family roots and is excited to lend his expertise and experiences to the JI2 foundation because he believes that all people should be able to live their lives as independently and as capable as they can.

Yessenia Rivera

Secretary and Treasurer

I am a Latin American & Border Studies graduate from Southwestern University. With a degree centered around policy and advocacy, I have directed my efforts toward promoting education equity, providing legal aid, and engaging in impactful research. My mission is rooted in the commitment to support our community and empower others dedicated to similar initiatives. Beyond my professional endeavors, I enjoy books, outdoor adventures, and sharing a home-cooked meal with friends and family.

I am driven by the belief that collective efforts can lead to transformative outcomes, and I look forward to continuing this journey of impact, growth, and community enrichment.

Breana Campos

Board Member

I'm an Animal Science graduate from Texas A&M University who's now thriving as an Account Manager at Amazon Web Services, specializing in Life Science startups. I am deeply passionate about collaborating with innovative companies that pioneer groundbreaking advancements in the medical and scientific domains, aiming to positively impact the world.

Beyond my professional prowess, my passion lies in exploration—whether it's embarking on trails with my furry companions, nurturing my garden, or uncovering delightful culinary spots. Here's a fun tidbit about me: I have a profound love for animals and my home is shared with several delightful pets. Among them, my three axolotls hold a special fascination for me. I take immense joy in caring for them and delving into their role in the world of regenerative science.

My multifaceted interests and dedication to both my career and hobbies highlight me as someone connected to nature, technology, and the joys of discovery.

Julian Castillo

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

Julian is a San Antonio native from San Antonio who was born and raised in San Antonio. He left San Antonio for Austin, where he completed the Texas Creative Portfolio Program and graduated from the Stan Richard's School of Advertising. He has built campaigns for brands such as Walmart, Volvo, ADCOLOR, Angel Soft, Pringles, and Las Vegas Tourism to name a few. He was last seen in New York City, fighting street rats for pizza.