Biography
Jocelyn Duarte is a dedicated educator and community advocate whose passion lies in empowering marginalized communities, particularly immigrants and women. Since the Spring of 2016, she has served as a part-time faculty member in the Central American and Transborder Studies Department, bringing her expertise and commitment to her teaching and research endeavors.
Her academic journey began with a strong foundation at California State University, Northridge, where she earned dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Central American Studies and Gender and Women's Studies. This interdisciplinary background laid the groundwork for her future pursuits, emphasizing both cultural understanding and social justice advocacy.
Driven by a desire to delve deeper into the complexities of the Central American diaspora, Jocelyn pursued a Master of Arts degree in Latin American Studies at California State University, Los Angeles. This advanced degree equipped her with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to explore issues such as transnational motherhood and the impact of technology on familial relationships across borders.
Her research interests extend beyond the academic realm, as she actively engages in community work aimed at addressing the needs of immigrant populations. Through her leadership as the Executive Director of the Salvadoran American Leadership Education Fund (SALEF), she plays a vital role in providing essential educational and legal services to immigrant communities, advocating for their rights and well-being.
At East Los Angeles Community College, Jocelyn continues to make a difference as an educator in the Chicana/o Studies Department. Her dedication to expanding access to education is evident through her efforts to bring Central American Studies courses to the Pico-Union area via Dual Enrollment programs, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to explore their heritage and culture within an academic setting.
Jocelyn Duarte's journey is characterized by a steadfast commitment to social justice, education, and community empowerment. Through her teaching, research, and community activism, she continues to be a driving force for positive change, inspiring others to join her in creating a more equitable and inclusive society. She is presently working towards a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at California State University Los Angeles.