About Antonio
"What kind of world could we create if everyone had an equal chance to succeed, regardless of where they began?"
This question fuels Antonio’s work. Having experienced the foster care system firsthand, he knows how much untapped potential exists in young people who just need a little more support. His goal is to build equitable spaces—places where everyone, no matter their background, is empowered to thrive. But equity isn’t just about addressing deficits; it’s about creating new pathways where opportunities are accessible and sustainable.
Through his research, particularly in developing the Integrated Positive Development Model of Aging-In, he has dedicated himself to innovation—finding practical ways to close the gaps that hold so many back. He wants to help foster youth, and others from marginalized backgrounds, see themselves as agents of their own future. His work isn’t about temporary fixes. It’s about creating systems of equity that don’t just react to challenges, but anticipate them, ensuring that everyone has a chance to flourish. For Antonio, when we focus on building sustainable solutions that address both present needs and future opportunities, we’re not just solving problems—we’re paving the way for a future where equity is the foundation, not the exception.
Prior to joining the Student Center for Inclusive Excellence as the Assistant Director, Antonio served as an Admissions Counselor where I was part of the Access and Inclusive Excellence team. Not only did he support students with getting into the front door of W&M, he also focused on the Home for the Holidays Program and Griffin Ambassadors Program supporting active undergraduate students with sharing their personal stories with prospective students. Antonio’s experience in higher education is also captured through his work as an Assistant Instructor where he assists in teaching graduate-level courses in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania, while focusing on enhancing student understanding of positive psychology principles and their real-world applications. He supports course design, curriculum development, and facilitates group discussions that encourage active student participation and critical thinking. He is also a devoted mentor providing individualized support to students, offering guidance on assignments, projects, and personal development. Antonio plays an integral role in fostering a collaborative and inclusive classroom environment that emphasized personal growth and academic rigor. Additionally, he served as a Presidential Fellow at Virginia Peninsula Community College for two years. While at VPCC, he led and founded The Shop, a campus-based initiative within the Minority Male Success Program, focused on increasing retention, engagement, and belonging among underrepresented male students. He was instrumental in designing and facilitating student-centered programming that promoted academic success, personal development, and holistic well-being. He also provided one-on-one mentorship, coordinated workshops, and developed strategic partnerships with campus departments and community organizations to enhance student support.
As the Assistant Director, Antonio will continue to build on his prior foundation for supporting student success at William & Mary! He is responsible for leading the Preparing for Life as a University Student (PLUS) Program where he has the opportunity to connect with incoming students and support them through their entire journey at W&M. Through integrated programming that meets students where they are, and elevates them through their personal and professional development, Antonio will focus on equipping our students with the tools for college-to-career pathways and student success. Additionally, he is also responsible for the development of our Student Ambassadors, leading them event and office assisting, programming for university wide events, and supporting their creativity and community-building. He also serves as a great outreach and connector for our students and student organizations.
Personally, Antonio hails from Philadelphia (Go Sixers!) and after graduating from William & Mary in 2022, he continued his education by earning a Master of Applied Positive Psychology at UPenn. He is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and very active in the community, particularly in Child Welfare and Foster Care Services. He has contributed to “Understanding Child Welfare,” an open-access book that brings together leading scholars and practitioners committed to improving outcomes for children and families involved in the child welfare system. In 2026, he was appointed to the Board of Directors for The Friends of Foster Care (TFFC)! Fun fact: Antonio is the eldest of six siblings (five boys and one girl) and has some pretty solid skills in the kitchen!
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