Board Member
Hometown: Ecuador
What was your favorite toy or game to play with as a child?
Playing soccer in the street with my neighbors was my favorite. It wasn’t just about the game; it was about connection, belief, and fun that didn’t require anything fancy.
What was your favorite thing about being a child, and do you try to hold onto that spirit as an adult?
I loved listening to stories shared by people with lived experiences. Their creativity, humor, courage, and wisdom in navigating life sparked a deep sense of curiosity in me. That stayed with me, and as an adult, I continue striving to be a thoughtful listener, learner, and doer.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned as a child, and how has it influenced your life today?
I learned that everyone is unique and has their own strengths. The real challenge is to recognize and nurture those strengths. This perspective has helped me move away from focusing on weaknesses and instead toward developing potential and embracing possibilities.
What was the most challenging experience you faced as a child, and how did you overcome it?
Getting lost was one of the scariest experiences I faced. I found the courage to ask for help. It taught me that vulnerability isn’t always a weakness, it can become a strength that helps us to find the resources to keep going.
What advice would you give to your younger self, based on what you’ve learned throughout your life so far?
Don’t fear the unknown. Take each day as it comes and find joy in the present moment. Things often work out in ways you can’t yet imagine.
Biography
Eduardo Ortiz, J.D., Ph.D., is a Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Disabilities Research, Policy, and Practice (IDRPP) within the College of Education at Utah State University (USU). He brings over 15 years of experience in research and training across multiple local, state, regional, national, and international projects. His work has focused on supporting individuals, families, and organizations—both with and without disabilities. Eduardo earned his Ph.D. in Sociology from Utah State University in 2009 and holds a Law Degree (J.D.) from the Catholic University of Ecuador (1996), his home country. His research and collaborative efforts span a wide range of topics, including disability studies, diversity and intersectionality, child development, and leadership. He is also deeply engaged in community-based initiatives and advocacy work.
