Rómulo “R.J.” Vega (he/him/él) was born and raised in Kearney, Nebraska, before eventually enrolling at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) in 2003. It was at UNL where R.J. discovered his passion for serving and connecting with others, beginning with the Mexican-American Student Association (MASA), the Phi Alpha Chapter of Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, and by working as a student for the UNL Office of Admissions Multicultural Recruitment Team. R.J. joins our Immigrants and Communities Program as a Community Organizer with a vast amount of experience supporting students and families across Nebraska!
His previous experience includes working as a student-staff worker at the UNL Culture Center, a mentor for the NU Connections program, and a New Student Enrollment Orientation Leader. After graduating with a degree in Film Studies and Spanish, R.J. joined EducationQuest Foundation where he spent nearly 10 years connecting English and Spanish speaking families with college planning & funding resources.
“I was motivated by how helpful and supportive Appleseed has been in many community-focused efforts over the years, in particular during 2020 as meatpacking plant worker safety has been a major concern amid the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m excited to learn from the team, contribute where I can, and provide support to our local communities as we strive for opportunity and justice for ALL Nebraskans.” – R.J.
As the COVID19 pandemic began in 2020, R.J. launched his own media company, which specializes in short-form video content, podcasting, and social media strategy. He also enjoys Karaoke in his spare time! You can reach out to R.J. at rvega@neappleseed.org.