Jon’s career began in education, with roles at Prince George’s County Public Schools and George Mason University, where he earned a Master’s in English with a focus on linguistics. At GMU, he was awarded the Global Professional Staff Exchange Award, which took him to Spain to collaborate with his counterpart at the prestigious Fundación Ortega y Gasset in Toledo, working to establish a cross-cultural study abroad program. His impactful work at GMU earned him the Outstanding Achievement Award in 2018.
Jon’s true passion, however, lies in the kitchen. A rebel inspired by Anthony Bourdain, he made a bold career shift into culinary arts, landing a position at Hilton – National Landing in Arlington, VA, with support from the Kitchen of Purpose. There, he led efforts to improve purchase order compliance, raising scores from 46.7% in September 2024 to 82.6% by March 2025. A native of Puerto Rico, Jon is an avid traveler, football fan, and is excited to welcome his first child, a baby girl, in July 2025.
