As we continue to celebrate Latinx Heritage Month, the Surge Institute is proud to highlight the remarkable contributions of our alumni who fiercely advocate for our youth.

Next up, we spotlight Jorge Alaves (CHI26), who completed the Surge Chicago Fellowship earlier this year. Jorge is a dedicated school counselor at Lindblom Math and Science Academy, a Chicago Public Schools selective enrollment high school, and “a lifelong Chicagoan and Southwest-Sider.” He embodies the relentless spirit, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to equity that defines the Surge movement.

Jorge’s journey into educational leadership is deeply rooted in his family. When asked about the foundational forces that shaped his path, he points to his parents.

“Mi mamá y mi papá have been my steady rocks and guiding lights throughout my life journey, both personally and professionally,” he shares. Their constant support and example instilled in him a drive to be hard-working and giving. “By nurturing my love of learning and making college attainable, my parents helped make education a viable, fitting career pathway. I honor my parents by being a resource and support for my students, families, and communities, which has led me to my leadership journey through Surge.”

As he looks ahead, Jorge’s message to the next generation of Latinx leaders is one of profound empowerment: “We are more capable than we realize. We carry a resiliency and fighting spirit from our families and ancestors. As a community, we will push forward and create positive change.”

Grounded in his favorite mantra, “¿Y si sí?” (What if yes?), Jorge challenges all of us to imagine the boundless possibilities when we lean into our heritage, uplift our youth, and stand together for equity.