Occupation: I work in software engineering. I lead engineering teams and build web apps for startups and small businesses. Previously, I taught Spanish to high school and college students.

Family: My wife, Melanie, is a clinical pharmacist at Danbury Hospital. My daughter, Gabriela, will be a sixth grader at Reed this year and my son, Dylan, will be in second grade at Hawley. I grew up in Wilton, where my parents still reside.

Pets: Winston, our French Bulldog, is the newest addition to our family. He’s 3 months old and has his own Instagram account!

How long have you lived in Newtown? My family and I have lived in Newtown for seven years.

What is the best part about Newtown? I would have to say the teachers and administrators. There is no shortage of inspiring teachers and dedicated administrators in Newtown.

What organizations are you part of in Newtown? I’m a member of the executive committee for Newtown Allies For Change, a group dedicated to advocating for equality for people of color in Newtown. I’ve helped plan several events for the group, including the Rally 4 Change in June and monthly book discussions. It’s been inspiring to see so many people in town that want to be allies for people of color and are ready to help foster a more diverse and inclusive community.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? My parents have had the greatest influence in my life. My mother immigrated to the United States from Central America when she was a teenager. She learned English, earned four college degrees, became a citizen, had several different careers, and raised a family. She embodies the American dream. My dad also earned multiple college degrees and had several different professions. He has taught me a lot about culture, the fine arts, family, and faith. And at age 90, he is still teaching literature courses at the local library.

What is something you cannot live without? Pizza.

What is your proudest accomplishment? Being a father has been my proudest accomplishment and most important job. I love my kids and it’s amazing to watch them grow and learn.

What is your favorite quote? “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” – Pablo Picasso

What is your favorite TV show? Mad Men is my all-time favorite TV show. The acting is fantastic and the show brilliantly recreates the 1960s era in US history. Ozark is another favorite of mine and one of my quarantine Netflix binges.

If you could visit the past or the future, which would you choose? As much as I’d love to visit the future, I’d have to choose the past. The future is unknown and I wouldn’t want to change that. Also, it would be fun to visit famous moments and people in the past, as well as my own life.