Isaias Solis, Senior Director of Programs at Erie Neighborhood House, is a dedicated community advocate who has always been passionate about positively impacting his community. As a child, he migrated to the U.S. from Mexico City with his mother and older sister and was undocumented for many years. His journey with Erie Neighborhood House allowed him to become quickly immersed in the organization’s mission to empower immigrants and low-income families through education, advocacy, and support services.
Throughout his career, Isaias has held various leadership positions, each focused on empowering communities and promoting equity and inclusion. Before joining Erie Neighborhood House, he served as Deputy Empowerment Zone Chief at the South Bend Empowerment Zone, where he implemented strategies to improve educational outcomes for underserved students. As Director of Programs at the Latin United Community Housing Association (LUCHA), he developed and implemented initiatives to address housing inequities and promote economic stability among Latino communities in Chicago.
Isaias is a recognized leader in his field, and his expertise and dedication have been acknowledged through various fellowships and awards. He has been selected for prestigious fellowships such as the Chicago Latino Caucus Foundation Fellows Program and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Fellows Program. His contributions have also been honored with numerous awards, including the esteemed “Master Social Worker of the Year” from the Organization for Latino/Social Workers of Michigan and the notable “District Teacher of the Year” from the Donna Independent School District.
Solis holds a Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University, a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Education from Harvard University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania.
Solis is driven by his commitment to equity and breaking down systemic barriers to self-sufficiency. Outside his professional pursuits, he cherishes time with his wife, Nicole, and their five children.
Word of Wisdom: “Through adversity, we discover the strength within us that we never knew existed. Embrace every opportunity, no matter how daunting it may seem, for it is through these experiences that we truly grow and evolve” – Isaias Solis.