The Honorable Student Speaker: Jesus Martinez-Avilez
Jesus Martinez-Avilez’s journey has been marked by a combination of passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to making a difference. As the student speaker for the upcoming Academic Honors & Awards Ceremony at Grand View University, he will share his experiences and insights on the “Heart of Vocation.”
As a communication and media practice major, Jesus has spent his college career navigating various mediums to tell stories that matter. A standout in student media, he has been an integral part of the Viewfinder Media team, serving as a reporter, managing editor, and special projects director.
- Reporter: Jesus has reported on various stories, including a feature on the Des Moines LGBTQ+ community, which received widespread attention and praise.
- Managing Editor: As managing editor, Jesus has ensured the accuracy and clarity of articles, providing readers with well-researched and engaging content.
- Special Projects Director: Jesus has overseen several special projects, including a documentary series on social justice issues in the community.
Through his work, Jesus has developed a unique voice and perspective, one that combines his passion for storytelling with a deep understanding of the importance of advocacy and social justice. “Through my experiences, I’ve come to realize that vocation is not just about finding a career, but about living a life of purpose and meaning,” Jesus said. “For me, that means using my voice to amplify the stories of those who need to be heard, and working to create positive change in my community.”
Jesus’s experiences have been shaped by his upbringing in Des Moines, Iowa, and his Mexican heritage. As a Multicultural Ambassador and former president of the Diversity Alliance, he has been actively involved in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus.
| Leadership Roles | • Multicultural Ambassador | • President, Diversity Alliance | • Honors Program |
| Achievements | • Student Journalist of the Year (Iowa College Media Association) | • Feature: “Living Undocumented” (Viewfinder Media) |
As a graduate, Jesus hopes to work in the nonprofit sector, where he can use his skills and experiences to make a positive impact. His long-term goal is to contribute to local news in Des Moines, where he can continue to use his voice to tell stories that matter. The annual Academic Honors & Awards Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, April 23, recognizing the outstanding academic achievements, leadership, and contributions of the student body. Jesus Martinez-Avilez’s speech, “The Heart of Vocation,” will be a powerful reminder of the importance of living a life of purpose and meaning. His experiences, passion, and commitment to making a difference will inspire and motivate the student body to pursue their own vocation. “I believe that every individual has the power to create positive change in their community,” Jesus said. “By using our unique voice and perspective, we can amplify the stories of those who need to be heard and work towards a more just and equitable world.”
Jesus’s message will be one of hope and inspiration, encouraging the student body to find their own vocation and pursue their passions with purpose and meaning. Jesus’s speech will be a powerful reminder that vocation is not just about finding a career, but about living a life of purpose and meaning.
