José Lugo is the Native Education Liaison/Curriculum Development Specialist at Collaborative for Educational Services. This role was developed in collaboration with Native educators and Tribal education professionals from our region and the southwest. The purpose of the role is to serve and provide support as requested by Native Entities (American Indian/ Alaskan Native federal & state tribes) and individuals for consultation, technical assistance, and curriculum development support. José’s area of focus is Native and Indigenous wellness and educational practices. His inclusion and advocacy with indigenous communities in and around Denver, Co. provided the path to reconnecting with his indigenous ancestry. Prior to his arrival at CES his professional time centered around adult education in higher ed and within state public assistance programs.
Since arriving at CES José has benefitted from learning of the history of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe through a partnership with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Education Department. His ancestral origins are from lands of the Rarámuri and Chihuahua nations of Northern Mexico, and identifies as a Chicano-Mexica-Nahua. He has a Masters in Multicultural Literature.