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J Nguyen
Equity and Justice Coordinator at Minnesota Council of Nonprofits
Professional Background
J Nguyen is a distinguished queer Vietnamese American visual artist and community organizer, actively shaping the landscape of equity and justice in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. With a deep commitment to advocacy, J has focused their efforts on gender and reproductive justice issues within the Queer Asian community. Their multifaceted career encompasses various roles that leverage their extensive knowledge of the nonprofit sector while promoting a vision of an equitable society.
In their current position as the Equity and Justice Coordinator at Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, J works diligently to dismantle systemic barriers in philanthropy. Their research-driven approach ensures that the voices and needs of marginalized communities are prioritized and considered in funding decisions. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, J amplifies the impact of nonprofit organizations, creating pathways toward a future rooted in radical queerness and racial justice.
Education and Achievements
J's educational journey laid a solid foundation for their professional endeavors. They earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Government, paired with Sociology, from Augsburg College—a choice that reflects their dedication to understanding the complexities of societal structures and advocating for change. Additionally, J holds an Associate’s Degree in General Health Studies from Hennepin Technical College, showcasing their commitment to health equity and accessibility.
Their academic pursuits continued at the University of Minnesota-Morris, where they deepened their expertise in Political Science and Government. This robust educational background has empowered J to engage with a variety of issues, from healthcare access to voting rights, equipping them with the analytical tools necessary for effective advocacy.
Notable Contributions and Roles
Throughout their career, J has undertaken several critical roles that highlight their commitment to community engagement and social justice. Their previous work as a Gender Justice Organizer at the Asian American Organizing Project allowed them to lead initiatives aimed at empowering queer and marginalized individuals, fostering educational resources, and promoting reproductive rights.
In their earlier position as a Program Assistant at Augsburg LGBTQIA+ Student Services, J contributed to the development of supportive programs for LGBTQIA+ students, creating a nurturing environment for personal and academic growth. Their passion for civic engagement was further showcased during their tenure as a Campus Election Engagement Fellow at the Campus Election Engagement Project, where they played a pivotal role in mobilizing voters and raising awareness about civic participation.
As a Student Researcher at URGO Augsburg University, J examined critical social issues, and their insights played a significant role in advancing academic discourse. Their involvement with the LEAD Fellows at Bonner Scholars allowed them to develop leadership skills while working on community service projects that benefited underrepresented populations.
J’s experience as a Peer Tutor at Hennepin Technical College not only demonstrates their commitment to education but also their dedication to uplifting the next generation of leaders. Their work as a Residential Youth Counselor with TRiO Upward Bound at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities reflects their passion for supporting diverse youth in pursuing higher education.
J also contributed to economic empowerment as an Economic Development Intern at the Center for Small Towns at the University of Minnesota Morris, where they focused on fostering sustainable growth in small communities. Additionally, their role as a Night Hawks Teaching Assistant at Independent School District 112 showcases their commitment to education and mentorship.
Achievements
J Nguyen's journey has been marked by exceptional contributions to both art and social advocacy. Their artistic endeavors serve not only as a medium for personal expression but also as a platform for discussion around gender, identity, and social justice themes.
Beyond their artistic pursuits, J’s role in various nonprofits exemplifies a continuous commitment to driving change in Minnesota and beyond. They have effectively mobilized communities, advocated for policy changes, and uplifted voices that are often marginalized. J’s work has consistently demonstrated an alignment with their vision of creating a just world where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive without systemic barriers.
J’s initiatives demonstrate their incredible networking skills and ability to inspire collaboration among diverse groups. As they continue to engage with issues around equity and justice, J's future endeavors promise innovation and positive impact in the realm of social justice, philanthropy, and community organizing.