Michael Elias was born and raised in the Bay Area to Mexican American parents. From a young age, Michael had a host of role models and mentors who encouraged him along his educational path. Michael ultimately traveled across the country to complete his college education at New York University, where he received his B.A. in Philosophy.

Throughout college and as a young professional, Michael garnered extensive experience in the government, legal, and nonprofit sectors. After traveling to Santiago, Chile, to volunteer in a Boys Shelter for four months, Michael discovered a passion for supporting youth, particularly Latino youth, in their personal and educational journeys. He has since worked with Mission Graduates, first at Everett Middle School where he started the school’s La Raza Club, and now down the street at Mission High, where he serves as the Extended Day Program Director.