Cordero Holmes

Cordero Holmes is a Phoenix native, a proud member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, and a committed community leader who has made significant contributions to his college and community. His journey is a testament to resilience and growth, having overcome a decade of incarceration to become an advocate for justice-involved youth and a champion of racial equity.

Cordero’s educational path began while he was incarcerated, where he enrolled at Rio Salado College. He earned multiple degrees, including certifications in Addiction & Substance Use Disorders, an Associate in Applied Science, and an Associate in the Arts with an emphasis in Psychology. His academic achievements were marked by prestigious awards such as the Phi Theta Kappa Hites Transfer Scholarship, Coca-Cola National Scholar, and Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship. 

After his time at Rio Salado, Cordero continued his education at Arizona State University (ASU), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Public Service and Public Policy, and is currently pursuing dual master’s degrees in Criminology and Criminal Justice and Public Administration.

As the Director of Operations for Progress Pushers Arizona, Cordero mentors and trains youth aged 12-24 who have been impacted by the justice system. He also serves as a mentor at the Durango Juvenile Detention Center and regularly volunteers with the unhoused population. In addition, Cordero speaks at national events and serves as a STAR Fellow for the Urban Institute, traveling to various tribal nations to facilitate caretaker groups and share his experiences as a parent navigating higher education.

Cordero's advocacy extends to education policy, where he has worked with the Arizona Department of Education’s Indian Education Advisory Council, advising the state’s Superintendent of Education on policies impacting Indigenous children. He has also partnered with the Computing Alliance for Hispanic Serving Institutions and served on the Maricopa Council on Black American Affairs.

His dedication to service and positive change has earned him recognition, including the 2025 Arizona State University Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Servant-Leadership Award and the 2023 MLK Living the Dream Honor by the City of Phoenix. Featured in the PBS documentary Being Free, Cordero continues to inspire others with his story of perseverance, advocacy, and his unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact in the lives of others.