About Justin
At the heart of Justin’s leadership is a deep commitment to supporting VISTA members as whole humans. As a former in-house TMA VISTA himself, Justin understands firsthand the challenges, opportunities, and moments of growth that come with a service year. His approach is intentionally individualized, rooted in deep listening, clear communication, empathy, and positive reinforcement because no two VISTA experiences are the same.
Justin believes leadership in this context means doing whatever will create the best possible experience for each member. He takes a proactive stance in helping VISTAs realize their potential, fulfill their VISTA Assignment Descriptions (VADs), and build skills that will serve them long after their year of service ends. He’s also a strong believer in innovation and initiative—and encourages members to explore both.
What He’s Looking Forward To
This year, Justin is most excited about connection. Whether it’s collaborating with TMA staff, mentoring VISTA members, or building community across the network, he’s energized by meaningful conversations, shared learning, and collective problem-solving.
Growing as a Leader
Justin is eager to continue strengthening his skills as a mentor and coach—roles he benefited from deeply during his own time with TMA. He’s also focused on growing his facilitation practice (both one-on-one and in group settings), improving his approach to conflict navigation, and finally wrapping his head around what systems thinking actually is.
What He Brings to the Community
With a professional background that spans nonprofits and comedy writing, Justin brings a rare and refreshing blend of skills to the TMA VISTA community. Expect deep listening, thoughtful facilitation, humor, creativity, strong writing, and a clear-eyed sense of vision—proof that seriousness of purpose and levity can absolutely coexist.
Before Becoming a VISTA Leader
From 2024–2025, Justin served as the Executive Director of a small nonprofit, followed by a contract role as a Member Success Coach with the State’s Department of Service and Civic Innovation. Prior to that, he was a TMA VISTA Member in Communications and Strategic Partnerships. His earlier career includes stints as a comedy writer in Hollywood, a publishing company founder, a co-creator of a video game/toy hybrid, a co-founder of a children’s education company, and an Associate Director at a writing-based gang intervention organization.
Leadership Style
If leadership styles were a playlist, Justin would be calm and grounding with a strong big-picture track on repeat. He’s not the hype person—and definitely not the DJ’s assistant—but he is the steady presence who helps the room think clearly and move forward together.
The Big Debate
Are hot dogs sandwiches?
Justin’s verdict: 65% sandwich.
One Fun Fact
Justin once accidentally double-dipped a chip in front of the George from Seinfeld—actor Jason Alexander himself. (Yes, it was as uncomfortable as it sounds.)