Greenville: A Beacon of Hope Thanks to José Morales-Martinez
As the clouds gather outside, bringing with them a deluge of rain, the spirit of resilience shines bright inside Berea High School. Here, on a gloomy September day, the students are overcoming their own storms with the help of a dedicated individual. José Morales-Martinez, a multi-talented advocate, is at the forefront of this transformation, fostering a sense of community and belief in potential among students.
“Sí Se Puede”: A Mantra for Change
José is a student advocate and site coordinator for Communities In Schools, and he approaches his roles with an infectious optimism embodied in his motto: “sí se puede”. “Yes, we can. Yes, you can. Yes, it is possible.” It’s not just a catchy phrase for José; it’s a guiding principle that he imbues within his students. Whether he’s wearing the hat of a father, friend, coach, teacher, or mentor, José’s main aim is to inspire.
A Journey of Resilience
Originally from Mexico City, José’s early life occurred in a circus setting, where his father performed as an animal tamer while his mother took care of the children. At just four years old, he crossed the border with his family into Greenville. Their life was far from easy; after settling, they shared a cramped three-bedroom apartment with another family, and financial struggles were a daily reality. Yet, amid the challenges, José’s mother instilled an invaluable lesson: the importance of community.
Helping Hands Exceeding Boundaries
“She’d see a Hispanic family in distress and encourage me to help them,” José recalls. This fundamental lesson of looking out for others fueled José’s passion to uplift those around him, especially students who may be feeling lost or unsupported.
Creating Future Leaders
His commitment doesn’t stop at Berea High School. José also serves as an advisor for the Hispanic Alliance’s Student DREAMers Alliance, a comprehensive leadership program focused on empowering high school juniors and seniors. “We cultivate the next generation of Hispanic leaders through public speaking, mental awareness, and career guidance,” he explains, emphasizing that he sees parts of himself in these students, who often come from backgrounds similar to his own.
Overcoming Barriers to Education
While his past presented numerous obstacles, José remembers the people who believed in him. One such person was Adela Mendoza, executive director of the Hispanic Alliance, who saw beyond his undocumented status. Thanks to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), José finally had the chance to apply to college without the fear of deportation looming over him. His determination led him to Furman University, where he not only earned a full scholarship but also became a first-generation college graduate.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Reflecting on his journey, José passionately states, “If I came from nothing and still managed to succeed, so can these kids.” His goal is to motivate students to break through perceived barriers, telling them to look past the fences that close them in and strive for a better future.
A Community Effort Amidst the Rain
As the rain falls heavily outside—around half an inch, with clouds hanging low above—inside the walls of Berea High School, the focus remains on building brighter futures. José Morales-Martinez stands as a lighthouse guiding students through their personal storms, ensuring that they understand the immense potential that lies within them.
With his unwavering support, endless encouragement, and the shared belief that “Sí Se Puede,” students are inspired to stitch their narratives of success. As the winds whip outside at a mere 5 to 10 mph, the winds of change within the hearts and minds José serves are gaining momentum and pushing forward.
