As Chief Operating Officer at Making Waves Education Foundation, Erick Roa is responsible for partnering with all of members of the organization to create and implement talent-facing policies, procedures, and rituals that promote a thriving, equitable, and inclusive team culture grounded in Making Waves Education Foundation’s core values and commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Before joining the team, Erick partnered with numerous nonprofit and social impact organizations across the United States to design and implement strategic talent plans across the talent life-cycle (hire to retire). He began his career as a high school English teacher in his hometown, Brooklyn, NY. This is where he discovered his love for creating spaces where people feel safe and a sense of belonging and community. As a Latino, first-generation high school and college graduate, Erick has a deep and personal connection to the Making Waves Education Foundation mission.