Oliany Mendez

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT OLIANY MENDEZ

I am a licensed social worker, educator, and community-centered leader dedicated to strengthening the emotional, academic, and social well-being of young people across Washington, DC. With over a decade of experience in school-based mental health, family support, youth development, and culturally responsive practice, I bring a holistic lens to every space I serve.I currently work as a School Social Worker at KIPP DC, where I provide individual counseling, crisis response, SEL skill-building, and ongoing consultation to teachers and families. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, restorative practices, and empowering students with the strategies needed to navigate both academic and personal challenges.Before joining KIPP, I served as Dean of Students at Columbia Heights Educational Campus (Bell), leading school culture, crisis management, and family engagement for a diverse high school population. I also rebuilt the Bell baseball program and currently serve as Head Baseball Coach, earning recognition as the 2025 DCIAA Baseball Coach of the Year. Through coaching, I mentor student-athletes on discipline, leadership, resilience, and teamwork—values that extend far beyond the field.My professional foundation includes roles as Program Manager, Student Resource Coordinator, Bilingual Family Support Worker, and Family Resource Specialist, where I supported families through case management, fatherhood initiatives, home visiting, community resource navigation, and advocacy across the District. These experiences shaped my commitment to culturally grounded, strengths-based, and community-driven social work.I also serve as the Co-Founder and Executive Board Member of the Dominican Professional Association, a growing network focused on elevating Dominican leadership, professional development, and community empowerment across the DMV.I hold a Master Social Work from Howard University (Magna Cum Laude) and a Bachelor of Science from Bowie State University. I am licensed as an LMSW in Maryland and LGSW in Washington, DC, and I am currently completing the Fred Taylor “Roll Away the Stone” Leadership Certificate Program at Howard University.My mission is to build supportive ecosystems where students, families, and communities feel safe, seen, and empowered to reach their full potential.