Mario Gonzales

Mario Gonzales, a native Texan turned Michigander since 2003, has been deeply rooted in community organizing. With nearly a decade in Kalamazoo during his academic and early professional years, he returned to Lansing in 2016, dedicating himself to a variety of local causes.

Mario’s career spans over 12 years across nonprofit sectors, from youth development to workforce initiatives and human rights advocacy. A former AmeriCorps member and program director at a volunteer service hub as well as a Latin-American cultural center, Mario is committed to solving societal issues through collaborative, human-centered approaches. A proud alumnus of East Lansing High School and Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Social Work, he aims to further his impact through an MBA from Michigan State University, focusing on social entrepreneurship.

Mario is passionate about cultivating a thriving Downtown Lansing community where everyone can flourish and live their best lives. His devotion to inclusivity and empowerment drives his efforts to create a welcoming environment for all residents and guests.