Gerardo R. Martinez, Director of Intercultural Engagement & Inclusion

@ martinezgr@umkc.edu

# (816) 235-1768

Gerardo Martinez received his Master’s in Business Administration at the Regiomontana University in Monterrey, México in 1990. He moved to Toronto, Canada, to continue his education giving him professional experiences in one of the world’s most multi-cultural cities for almost ten years.

In 2000, he moved to the USA to work for Franklin Covey Co.in Utah. Five years later he moved to Missouri and joined Mattie Rhodes Center in KCMO, serving the Latinx communities. Gerardo received the “Spirit Award” for his outstanding dedication and service to Latinx families that had a child with developmental disabilities.

He is certified on “Crossing Cultures with Competence” from Dr. Ann Copeland , “Culture Ambassador for Intercultural Management and Organizational Culture” from Dr. Geert Hostede & recently The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People ( in Spanish), from Dr. Stephen R. Covey.

Currently, he works as the Director of Intercultural Engagement & Inclusion (Alliances) at University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC)- Institute of Human Development (IHD). Alianzas is a joint project with University of Missouri Extension to address the needs and concerns of Latinx families throughout the state.

His passion for advocacy for Latinx families is reflected in his continual dedication to this population. He is responsible for the statewide program called: Alianzas. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Cambio of the Ozarks, a non-profit dedicated to promote diversity and inclusion of multi-cultural residents in Branson, Missouri. He is also a board director for the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council. (MODDC)

Gerardo has been blessed as a husband and father of six children. He and his family live in Independence, Missouri.