Angel J. Perez joins Rutgers University–New Brunswick as the new Assistant Director of the Center for Latino Arts and Culture (CLAC). A proud Camden city native, with more than a decade of professional experience in student success, community development and narrative-based digital storytelling. He holds a Master of Public Administration from Rutgers University–Camden and a dual BA in Writing Arts and Radio, TV & Film from Rowan University. In spring 2026 he will have completed a Master of Arts in Emerging Media.
Angel’s passion for equity and advocacy began early— shaped by his start at Camden County Community College and experiences in TRiO Upward Bound and the Educational Opportunity Fund program. These formative years taught him not only how transformative education could be, but also how essential it is to ensure that people who are often pushed to the margins are seen, heard, and affirmed. A passionate educator, artist, and community advocate, Angel’s creative work focuses on empowerment. The goal is to ensure students’ experiences are elevated rather than erased.
Before joining CLAC, Angel worked with the CHAMP/Gear Up, Aspira Upward Bound, and was the Southern Regional Coordinator for the Rutgers’ Youth Advisory Board. Most recently he served as the Sr. Student Programs Coordinator EOF at Rutgers–Camden, where he oversaw student leadership development initiatives and provided both 1:1 and group advising. His work has supported students in the criminal justice system, those navigating post-secondary life and other transitions, and anyone seeking belonging and purpose.
He was the architect of MOOD (Men Overcoming Obstacles Daily), an affinity-based community group for men of color that integrated mentorship, social-emotional development, and narrative reclamation through personal and professional growth opportunities. Most recently he designed and executed a five-week culturally grounded storytelling curriculum that empowered students while highlighting community assets. The project is rooted in dignity, restoration, and justice. It is his belief that students and natives deserve to be understood beyond data points or stereotypes in correlation to institutions and corporations.
Personally, Angel enjoys photography, running, exploring arts spaces, and celebrating his Puerto Rican heritage. He truly believes art is resistance, truth-telling, and a superpower. He’s excited to begin this new chapter contributing to the already vibrant, affirming community that is CLAC.
