Dr. Jason C. Méndez is a storyteller, global educator, and strategist with over two decades of experience in arts-based inquiry. Known for his innovative approach to narrative-driven research and community engagement, he collaborates with artists, creatives, and organizations across sectors to develop impactful strategies and methodologies that advance equity and justice. As a global strategist, Dr. Méndez bridges public, private, and nonprofit sectors, offering tailored consultancy that fuses storytelling and digital media literacy to create meaningful social, cultural, and economic change. His work spans arts-based organizations, educational institutions, and community initiatives, leveraging the power of narrative to transform perspectives and drive action.
Jason earned a PhD in Education with a focus on Curriculum, Culture, and Change from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where his research emphasized the power of storytelling and themes of place and placelessness. He also holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Randolph College, exploring memory, identity, mindfulness, and the concept of home. His creative works are published or forthcoming in outlets such as Health Promotion Practice, Poetry Magazine, Revolute, and Very Smart Brothas. Méndez's academic research is featured in journals like The Urban Review, Berkeley Review of Education, and the International Journal of Education and the Arts.
In his role as Co-founder and Executive Director of Block Chronicles, Jason leads a digital literacy, arts, and research hub that addresses social determinants of health, focusing on education access, community context, and neighborhood environments. He also spearheaded the Pittsburgh-Latinx Artist Residency (P-LAR) program in collaboration with Casa San José, providing a 10-month residency for Latinx artists in Allegheny County.
As artist and writer, Méndez recently served as Writer-in-Residence at the New Hazlett Theater, where he premiered a staged reading of his latest play, Sons of the Boogie. This second coming-of-age narrative explores self-discovery, the pursuit of dreams, and the cultural history of the Boogie Down Bronx.
Jason resides in Pittsburgh, PA, with his partner, Dr. Dara D. Méndez, their three children—Cairen, Adrah, and Leilani—and dog, Yuisa.