Jesica Aguilar
Administrative Assistant, Place
Why do you do what you do?
I do what I do because I enjoy helping people. Growing up, I moved around a lot, and I know what it’s like to be the “new person.” Unsure and maybe a bit scared. Therefore, I want to make sure everyone feels welcomed, regardless of whether that is at school, work, or even in the community.
What drew you to the foundation?
After graduating from SFSU, I began working at Mission Neighborhood Centers as the Administrative Assistant. A few months later, I began to work as the Executive Assistant to the CEO, Santiago “Sam” Ruiz, who at the time was a SFF trustee. It was through Sam that I was exposed to the Foundation and learned about the work they do. Thank you, Sam!
How would you describe your role?
I provide general administrative support to the entire Place team. I am in the background to make sure the team has everything they need in order to do their job without any interruptions.
What inspires you?
My parents inspire me to better myself every day, to be kind to everyone around me, and to work hard every day. When my mother immigrated to the US from Nicaragua, she was 14 years old. And when my dad immigrated to the United States from El Salvador, he was seven years old. When my brother and I were born, they were just teenagers. But they worked hard to give my brother and me all they never had as children, and I am forever grateful to have them as parents.