In this episode, we sit down with Dr. René Cantú, who shares his inspiring journey from his birthplace in California to becoming a dedicated advocate for youth success in Nevada. After facing challenges in high school, including being told to drop out, he discovered his calling in education. Dr. Cantú began his career as a teacher, focusing on empowering students from diverse backgrounds. He later took on leadership roles in various educational initiatives and ultimately joined JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) Nevada, where he works passionately to help students overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

Dr. Cantú emphasizes the importance of resilience, encouraging young people to view mistakes as opportunities for growth. "You determine your own success and value," he advises. He believes in the power of following one’s passions and finding ways to be of service rather than getting caught up in titles or salaries. He also highlights the interconnectedness of education, economic opportunity, and healthcare access.

He shares two impactful stories from JAG participants: a young woman who overcame family separation to pursue a career in law and a student from a rural area who found support despite significant challenges. Dr. Cantú envisions creating pathways for young people to achieve careers that offer annual earnings of $80,000 to $100,000 without the burden of student loans.

In his downtime, Dr. Cantú enjoys spending time with his family, engaging in outdoor activities, and exploring new places. He stresses the importance of self-care for maintaining balance and perspective, encouraging young people to prioritize their well-being and pursue their passions wholeheartedly.

Additionally, Dr. Cantú encourages families and students to participate in the School Start Time Survey, which aims to improve high school students' academic performance and mental health. The Nevada Department of Education website provides more information and access to the survey.

Lastly, JAG Nevada will hold its Statewide Initiation and Installation Ceremony on November 13, 2024, at Artemis Ham Hall at UNLV and the Student Center at TMCC in Reno. This event will celebrate students and install officers while showcasing JAG Nevada's impact on the community. To learn more about JAG Nevada and how to participate, visit JAGNevada.org.

JAG Nevada:
 https://j4ng.org/

Nevada Department of Education:
 https://doe.nv.gov/