Today we’d like to introduce you to Jose Vazquez.
Hi Jose, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
From the moment I stepped onto the University of Houston campus, I was driven by a passion to lead, inspire, and make a difference. As a student at the Moores School of Music, I immersed myself in the arts, honing my craft and developing a discipline that would shape the way I approach life. But beyond the music, I discovered something even more profound—brotherhood.
Joining Delta Upsilon Fraternity was a turning point in my life. I wasn’t just joining a fraternity—I was joining a legacy of men committed to “Building Better Men.” My pledge name, Lil’ Perm, became more than just a nickname. It was a symbol of the relationships, growth, and memories that would stay with me for a lifetime. Delta Upsilon taught me the value of service, leadership, and lifelong commitment to my community.
Today, I proudly serve as an executive board member of the Houston Alumni of Delta Upsilon, giving back to the brotherhood that gave me so much. I’ve had the privilege of mentoring and guiding young men, helping them navigate their own journeys while ensuring that the core values of the fraternity continue to thrive.
For over 10 years, I have dedicated myself to advising culturally based Greek organizations at the University of Houston – Downtown. I’ve worked closely with diverse organizations, helping them develop sustainable leadership structures, foster inclusivity, and create meaningful programming. My passion for empowering students has allowed me to witness the growth of countless leaders who go on to impact their communities in remarkable ways.
Even as I nurtured my love for music and mentorship, I realized that my leadership journey was far from over. I made the decision to pursue a Master of Science in Management, Strategy & Leadership at the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University—and I’m proud to maintain a 4.0 GPA while navigating this challenging program. My current focus is on compensation strategies, diving deep into the intricacies of designing equitable and effective reward systems that drive organizational success.
As I look ahead, I am fueled by a desire to merge my passions—music, mentorship, and business leadership. Whether I’m guiding the next generation of fraternity leaders, advising Greek organizations, or driving strategic initiatives in the business world, my goal remains the same: to lead with integrity, empower others, and leave a lasting impact.
This is my story—a journey defined by growth, resilience, and the unwavering belief that true leadership is about lifting others as you climb. And the best part? The next chapter is still being written.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Growing up, I always knew that education was the key to unlocking new opportunities. But as a first-generation college student, the path wasn’t always clear. I was stepping into unfamiliar territory—navigating college applications, financial aid, and course schedules without a roadmap. My family, while incredibly supportive and proud, couldn’t offer the guidance that many of my peers seemed to take for granted.
Every step I took was a leap of faith. I had to learn how to balance academics, work, and extracurriculars while figuring out how to navigate a world that was completely new to me. There were moments of doubt—times when I questioned whether I belonged in these spaces or if I was capable of succeeding. But giving up was never an option. I wasn’t just doing this for myself—I was doing it for my family, for the sacrifices they made, and for the future I dreamed of creating.
My journey led me to the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston, where I pursued my passion for music. But it wasn’t just about perfecting my craft—it was about discovering discipline, resilience, and the power of perseverance. Music taught me how to work through challenges and remain committed to my goals, even when things felt overwhelming.
During this time, I also found a sense of belonging and purpose in Delta Upsilon Fraternity. Pledging as Lil’ Perm wasn’t just about joining a fraternity—it was about building lifelong bonds, developing leadership skills, and embracing a commitment to service. Delta Upsilon became my second family, and the lessons I learned there extended beyond brotherhood. I discovered how to lead, how to serve, and how to give back to something greater than myself.
Being the first in my family to graduate college wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a victory for my entire family. But I knew my journey didn’t end there. I was determined to help others who were walking the same path I had once struggled to navigate.
For over 10 years, I’ve been deeply involved in advising culturally based Greek organizations at the University of Houston – Downtown, empowering diverse student leaders to succeed. I understand the unique challenges these students face—balancing academics, leadership roles, and cultural expectations. Through mentorship and guidance, I’ve been able to help countless students break through their own barriers and thrive in environments where they may have once felt like outsiders.
My commitment to growth and learning didn’t stop after earning my undergraduate degree. I pushed myself further by pursuing a Master of Science in Management, Strategy & Leadership at the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA in a rigorous program while juggling professional and personal commitments is no easy feat, but I thrive when I’m challenged. I’m currently diving deep into compensation strategies, exploring how organizations can create equitable systems that motivate and reward their employees.
The challenges I faced as a first-generation college student taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community. I learned how to advocate for myself and navigate systems that weren’t built with people like me in mind. But those experiences also fueled my passion for helping others who face similar struggles. I know what it’s like to feel like an outsider in spaces where you’re trying to belong, and I’ve made it my mission to open doors for others—whether through mentorship, leadership, or advocacy.
As I continue to grow as a leader, I remain committed to paying it forward. Whether I’m advising Greek organizations, guiding young leaders through Delta Upsilon, or driving change in the business world, I am driven by a simple yet powerful goal: to leave things better than I found them.
My story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the strength of community, and the belief that with determination and support, anything is possible. And while I’ve come a long way, I know the journey is far from over. I’m ready for whatever comes next—because I’ve learned that the greatest rewards often come from the toughest challenges.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Growing up in a family where college was an uncharted path, I knew that stepping into higher education would be a challenge. As a first-generation college student, I navigated unfamiliar territory, learning how to balance academics, work, and extracurricular commitments while striving to create a better future for myself and my family.
But my story isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about embracing my passions, finding my voice, and using that voice to inspire and lead others.
My journey through the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston was not only about mastering my craft but also about building something that would leave a lasting legacy. While studying music, I played in a few bands, even going on a multi-state tour across the country. Years later, while working for the University of Houston – Downtown, I founded and led Mariachi Los Caimanes, a group that quickly gained recognition for its authentic performances and dedication to preserving the rich tradition of mariachi music. Leading Los Caimanes wasn’t just about conducting music—it was about fostering a sense of pride, community, and excellence among my fellow musicians.
The success of Mariachi Los Caimanes opened doors I never imagined. My work with the group led me to become the Music Director of “Calavera con Calavera,” a renowned theatre stage play that celebrates the beauty and traditions of Día de los Muertos. In this role, I fused my musical expertise with my deep understanding of cultural storytelling, creating an unforgettable experience that resonated with audiences and honored the rich heritage behind the production.
My passion for celebrating culture and music took another exciting turn when I had the opportunity to serve as the Executive Director of “Dreaming of You: A Tribute to Selena” Music Festival. This festival honored the life and legacy of Selena Quintanilla, whose music and impact transcended generations. As Executive Director, I orchestrated an event that brought people together to celebrate Selena’s contributions to music and culture, ensuring her influence continued to inspire future generations.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Everyone travels a different path; no one’s journey is the same as someone elses. Don’t compare yourself to others. Believe in yourself and if self-doubt kicks in or you are afraid to fail, know that others are going through the same things even if it appears they have it all together. I wish I knew this when I was younger; I would have launched into more projects much sooner, instead of “waiting for the perfect moment”.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejimmyblazer/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-vazquez-91437426a/
