Summary
Languages: English and Spanish
My name is Ricardo Salazar, but almost everyone calls me Ricky. I think Ricky started around middle school when I found out that teachers had a hard time spelling my name, so they changed my name to Richard. Yeah, I can’t believe it either, so quickly I decided on Ricky and it just stuck. But that’s enough about my name, let’s focus on other attributes. I am the oldest of three and have one phenomenal and amazing mother. My father was equally as amazing, pero se nos adelantó from this world. Both my siblings have children, I guess that makes me their uncle. Family is special to me and it’s important for me to mention my roots regardless of how social and cultural capital shifts along my educational and professional trajectory. Me encanta la música and I also perform in my own family band called Ritmo Ardiente. I suppose this type of artistic expression is what allows me to practice some self-care. To me, music is the medicine for a broken soul, and we must cherish it.
I received my master’s in Social Work degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in May of 2015 and completed my B.A. in Criminal Justice in 2011. I have extensive experience working with income-qualified, first-generation youth; however, my areas of interest include exploring the intersectionality of race, sexual identity, and the Latinx culture. I serve as a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ population and believe I can impact new and continuing students by (re)creating and restoring humanity through difficult conversations. I have been with the University since my involvement with the Upward Bound Program in 2002. I currently run the Latinx and Pride Programs through The Multicultural Center.