Raul Leon

Raul is a proud alumnus of San Diego State University, graduating in 2023 with a strong commitment to public service and community empowerment. His journey in civic engagement began long before college, rooted in grassroots activism around critical environmental justice and infrastructure issues affecting Southeast Los Angeles. He worked on community-led efforts addressing the toxic legacy of the Exide battery plant and participated in advocacy surrounding the proposed 710 freeway expansion—projects that deepened his understanding of how policy decisions impact frontline communities.

After earning his degree, he took his passion for advocacy to the federal level, serving under Congressman Robert Garcia—his hometown representative—for two years. What began as an intern during the 2023 Fall CHCI Internship Program, evolved into a full-time role, first in the Long Beach district office, and later in Washington, D.C.. During this time, he worked on a range of legislative and constituent service initiatives, gaining valuable insight into the policymaking process while remaining grounded in the needs of his community.
Now seeking to serve on the Alumni Board as Vice President of Civic Engagement, he brings both lived experience and professional expertise to the role. His vision is to create inclusive, empowering spaces for alumni to reconnect, develop professionally, and give back—ensuring that the values of service, equity, and community leadership remain central to the alumni network.