Fernando oversees NIJC’s financial administration, strategy, budgeting, and compliance. Fernando has over a decade of leadership experience in the non for profit sector, and has served as the financial right hand of various programs that have ranged from: local programs aimed at fostering economic stability, physical safety and the long-term success of children, families and marginalized individuals in the Chicagoland area, and as far wide as international programs focused on public mental health in various countries. Fernando is a two-time graduate of DePaul University where he received both his Bachelor’s and Master’s, and most recently received his Certified Public Accountant certification in 2024.