Jorge Zavala: From Student Leader to Legislative Analyst
Jorge Zavala grew up in Moreno Valley, but it was on the campus of Moreno Valley College where he began to see the region through the lens of a future policymaker. Now serving as a legislative affairs analyst for the Southern California Association of Governments, Zavala credits his start at the college with providing the clarity needed to pursue a career in public service.
Zavala, who graduated in 2019 and later earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from California State University, San Bernardino, did not always have a defined career path. He chose MVC to remain connected to his roots while exploring his potential.
“MVC gave me the opportunity to explore different interests while staying close to home and surrounded by people who understood the community I came from,” Zavala said. “Looking back, it was a very formative time where I began to discover my interests, my values, and the kind of impact I wanted to have in the world.”
That impact took shape through the Associated Students of Moreno Valley College. His time in student government became a gateway to leadership, teaching him that effective advocacy is rooted in service. Under the mentorship of Ms. Moore, Zavala traveled to statewide conferences, connecting with other student leaders and broadening his understanding of civic engagement.
His commitment to student success deepened when he served as the student trustee for the Riverside Community College District. Holding that position during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic solidified his resolve to support his community during times of crisis.
“Representing students across the district was a tremendous responsibility,” he said. “Being able to advocate for students during such a critical time reinforced my commitment to public service.”
Zavala also found a sense of belonging through the Puente Program. Professors such as Dr. Maria Pacheco and Dr. Katherine Stevenson challenged him to look beyond the classroom and consider how his academic achievements could serve as a platform to uplift others.
This foundation supported his transition to the California State Assembly, where he served as a field representative for Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson. In that role, Zavala learned that government functions best when it remains accessible. He spent his days connecting residents with state resources and ensuring local voices were represented in the legislative process in Sacramento.
Today, Zavala analyzes complex regional policies affecting transportation, housing, and economic development for millions of Southern Californians. He remains an advocate for those just starting their journeys at the college, encouraging them to seek out mentors and trust in the value of their own perspectives.
“Leadership is not about having all the answers,” Zavala said. “It is about being willing to serve others and work toward solutions that benefit the community.”