Jason Seals is a member of the Leadership Council. He is an African-centered educator, carrying the tradition of activist-intellectual to address critical systemic issues and empower individuals for personal and social transformation. An Oakland native, Jason has over two decades of experience serving his community locally, nationally, and globally as an educator, thought leader, speaker, and change agent.
While completing his BA in Sociology at San Jose State University, Jason began his career in youth development serving in multiple roles across the nonprofit, mental health, and juvenile justice sectors. After obtaining his master’s in Africana Studies from the University of Albany, Jason leveraged his love for transformational educational practices and Africana studies in the classroom, teaching ethnic studies and manhood development courses at multiple high schools, colleges, and universities across the Bay Area.
Jason went on to earn a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco and began working full-time at Merritt College, where he currently serves as the Chair of Ethnic Studies and as a tenured Professor of African American Studies.
Beyond the traditional classroom, Professor Seals facilitates community workshops and professional development trainings on a wide range of topics inclusive of radical healing, anti-racism, parenting/fatherhood, and systems change. Jason is often called upon to provide his expertise as a consultant, curriculum designer, and speaker.
The role that Professor Seals is most passionate about is his role as a father. His love for his children is reflected in the work he does to rebuild families and communities as a means towards healing and wellness.