Ismael Diaz
““When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you’ll be successful.” – Eric Thomas.”
At Mercy University’s 2016 commencement ceremony, as graduation caps traced the heavens, none surpassed the altitude of Ismael Diaz, a graduate of Hudson Link.
Mr. Diaz, with a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science with Honors, extensive entrepreneurial experience in administrative operations and business strategy, and memberships in Psi Chi and Pi Gamma Mu Honor Societies, consistently credits Hudson Link for positively changing his life. “The opportunity provided by Hudson Link came at the opportune moment," he affirms. “Upon finishing my degree, I had a sense of achievement that was previously unimaginable.”
Organizations like Hudson Link, Center for Community Alternatives, The Clean Slate movement, and many more have received positive impact from his guidance, bravery, and wisdom. Mr. Diaz’s involvement in the #CleanSlate movement and steadfast commitment to justice and equality influenced the New York State legislature to pass a bill that removes barriers for formerly incarcerated individuals by sealing their prior records (if eligible), enabling them to progress in life and obtain employment, housing, and higher education.
Mr. Diaz, a native of New York City, looks forward to serving Hudson Link in a different capacity as a board member. Mr. Diaz currently serves as a Community Organizer at the Center for Community Alternatives, where he advocates for and advances legislative efforts related to outpatient treatment for substance use disorders. Mr. Diaz enjoys spending time with his family, spreading joy, and exploring life's opportunities with resilience.
