Birds Up Podcast

S3E5: San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside - Mariella Ozuna, MPA c/o 2010 & 2017, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer

Episode Summary

SAGE serves as an economic development resource for current business owners and potential new businesses moving into the Eastside of San Antonio. As Promise Zone partners, SAGE champions investments that improve the quality of life for individuals, families, neighborhoods, and businesses on San Antonio’s Eastside. They are dedicated to reversing decades of disinvestment, expanding opportunity for all Promise Zone residents, and improving the quality of life on the Eastside. Mariella is a results-oriented nonprofit professional with more than 10 years of experience in partnership building, program administration, project management, workforce development and training experience. Skilled in developing and managing strategic partnerships, event planning, and writing effective communication for various audiences. Proven track record in building dynamic teams and crafting data-informed strategies. She is passionate about leveraging technology for social impact. She oversees the federally designated Promised Zone which is a 22-mile area that brings “Ladders of Opportunities” to the community based on highest needs. She works with various community partners to supply the communities with what they need based on data. The data is collected through organizations such as SAISD, United Way, SAPD and Goodwill of San Antonio. She really believes that data is the storybook for the community's needs. She puts the pieces together and uses that data to bring in programs and ideas that make a big difference in the neighborhoods. Everything she does is backed by data, and her role is vital for the East Side. Her resume and experience also demonstrate that she is a big believer in the community. She has served in various capacities in nonprofits or volunteer leadership roles for the betterment of UTSA students and San Antonio. This is also a testament to her family who were “public servants.”

Episode Notes