Prior to joining UC FGR in January 2025, Ernesto served as University of California Graduate and Professional Council (UCGPC)'s director of government relations and legislative affairs, after having been outreach director and vice chair. Ernesto managed the organization’s advocacy portfolio, including organizing lobbying days in Sacramento and Washington. Ernesto has held leadership roles with Rock the Vote, served on the Associated Students UCLA (ASUCLA) Board of Directors, and was a fellow at the UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement. He's also held numerous student advocacy roles at both UC Berkeley and UCLA, focusing on student governance, supporting undocumented students, advancing civic and political engagement and leading systemwide initiatives that elevate the graduate student experience.  A California community college transfer student, Ernesto received a B.A. in Spanish/Latin American Literatures from UC Berkeley and an M.A. in Spanish/Hispanic Languages and Literatures from UCLA.