My Story Josh Franco
Josh Franco was born in Uruapan, Michoacan, Mexico. Shortly after his birth, he came
to the United States with his mother and older brother to live with his father in
California.
His interest in leadership and public service budded early in his life. Josh served as student body president at almost all the schools he attended, including Bellflower High School, Cerritos College, and the University of California, Merced. At UC Merced, Josh established the student government and was elected the institution's first-ever student body president.
Josh recalls that each person he has met, spoken with, and learned from has shaped his desire to pursue a career in public service. “Observing the passion of others, trying to understand the depth and breadth of their life experiences and absorbing as much knowledge as I can, I find that each person is greatly committed to creating a better life for themselves and those around them,” he says.
The awards and scholarships he received include the Cerritos College Facilities & Purchasing Leadership Scholarship, the Donald A. Strauss Foundation Public Service Scholarship, the Great Valley Center Institute for the Development of Emerging Area Leaders Class of 2006, and the Associated Students of Cerritos College Man of the Year, 2005.
“Cerritos College allowed me to learn about myself, develop life skills, and establish lasting friendships,” he says.
Josh received two associate degrees in economics and political science from Cerritos College and transferred to UC Merced in the fall of 2005. He achieved a bachelor’s degree in public policy from UC Merced in the spring of 2007.
His charismatic leadership and passion for public service landed him a job in the State Capitol in the Office of Lieutenant Governor John Garamendi. As an assistant to the Lt. Governor, he helped redesign and launch the Lt. Governor’s new website, coordinated the Students for California’s Future, a coalition of the three statewide student associations of the California Community Colleges, California State University, and the University of California, and is now responsible for the Lt. Governor’s higher education policy.
Between his hectic schedule, Josh dedicates himself to community services as an Advisor to California “Students for Barack Obama” and as a California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley participant. By attending meetings and regularly providing input on matters of general concern and particular concern to younger people, Josh hopes to elevate the concerns of the emerging generation.
Yet Josh manages to dig up some time to give back to his alma mater by mentoring current and incoming students. “The community challenged me to have a greater appreciation for the diversity of the campus and surrounding areas,” said Josh. “Cerritos College molded me into the person I am today.” He has mentored more than a dozen Cerritos College students. He regularly meets with peers and student organizations at UC Merced to provide them with academic and career guidance and serve as a bridge to aid them in their journey after their time at the university.
Josh hopes to become a professor someday and teach at a public university. Whatever path he takes, he has inspired and will continue to inspire many students.
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