Story #56: Angelico Razon, PBHA’s First Non-Profit Management Fellow (and More)
Angelico Razon’s journey with the PBHA showcases the transformative power of community service and leadership. As the first Nonprofit Management Fellow (NPMF) at PBHA, he not only laid the groundwork for future fellows but also exemplified the importance of innovative thinking in addressing social justice challenges.
A Harvard graduate from the Class of 2008, Angelico’s involvement with PBHA began during his undergraduate years, where he served as president in 2007. His fellowship, spanning the academic year of 2008-2009, allowed him to explore how public service fits into his long term goals in medicine as he prepared to apply to medical school shortly after. His experiences at PBHA allowed him to explore his interests in public health and social services, reflecting:
“The NPMF gave me the opportunity to reflect and think about what I wanted to do.” - Angelico Razon, highlighting how PBHA created a space for personal and professional exploration.
One of Angelico’s most impactful experiences involved advocating for healthier meal options for children in Chinatown. He vividly recalls a conversation with Boston Public Schools where he championed the need for culturally tailored nutrition, emphasizing that many immigrant children are lactose intolerant.
“I realized I wanted to be a doctor because I needed to learn how to advocate for my community.” - Angelico Razon emphasizing how his experience not only reinforced his desire to pursue medicine but also deepened his commitment to health equity.
Today, Angelico works with the California Department of Health Care Services in their Quality and Health Equity Division, where he focuses on implementing health equity programs. He also serves as an assistant professor at the Kaiser Permanente School of Medicine, continuing his mission of fostering student development alongside structural change. After his fellowship and professional schooling, Angelico returned to PBHA as the PBHA-A (Alumni Association) President, as PBHA is so grateful for his continued support.
“PBHA taught me how to build spaces where people feel safe to be uncomfortable, to learn, and to challenge themselves.” - Angelico Razon
Reflecting on his time with PBHA, Angelico highlights the enduring spirit of service that inspires him. One of his favorite memories actually happens every year — as it is the Coles “Call of Service” Lecture and Award.
“Every year, I look forward to Coles because it reminds me of the incredible commitment PBHA students have to making a difference.” - Angelico Razon
Finally, Angelico’s favorite quote, which might sound a familiar to PBHAers is this:
“I do not pray for a lighter load, but a stronger back.” - Phillips Brooks
This sentiment encapsulates his belief in resilience and empowerment, principles he aims to instill in future generations of leaders.
Photo from PBHA-A Retreat 2024
Photo from Non-Profit Management Intensive (NPMI) 2007.
NPMI is an annual week-long event during J-term where incoming officers train in the fundamentals of PBHA and their roles, often with the support of staff and outgoing officers.
