Talk with Grinnell College Alumnus José Mendez

Overview

Everyone is welcome to come hear José Alfonso Mendez talk about his life and career journey. José grew up in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles. A first-gen college student, he majored in political science and history. He graduated from Grinnell College in 2018, and earned his Master's in Public Administration at Idaho State University in 2025. After teaching science and social studies at Chief Tahgee Elementary Academy in Fort Hall, Idaho, he is now the art teacher at Mountain View Middle School in Blackfoot, Idaho. José enjoys drawing and creating 3D sculptures that he incorporates into his love of all things pop culture. He has had art pieces displayed at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and The Idaho Falls National Exhibition at the Willard Arts Center.

His talk will take place at the Grinnell College HSSC on 1226 Park St., in room S-3325 on the 3rd floor.

Address & Contact

For more information, contact:

• The Wilson Center for Innovation and Leadership
• (641) 269-3323
• wilsoncenter@grinnell.edu