Carlos Marquez III comes to CWDA as a seasoned advocate and recognized state association leader with nearly two decades of capitol experience. Against the backdrop of some of the toughest policy fights in Sacramento, Carlos has built a record of major legislative and budget achievements on behalf of large and diverse membership organizations.

In past roles as inaugural executive director of ACLU California Action and senior vice president of the California Charter Schools Association, respectively, Carlos secured legislation and budget investments that target disparities in California’s public safety and public education systems. 

Carlos has also served as an advisor to safety net and anti-poverty advocates like the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and Legal Assistance to the Elderly. Other past roles include leading HONOR Fund, a sponsored initiative of the Mexican American Legal Defense & Education Fund and serving as deputy political director of the LGBTQ Victory Fund & Institute. Carlos began his career representing social workers and county eligibility workers while at SEIU Local 221. He is deeply passionate about and understands the transformative power of county safety net programs personally. As a child, Carlos interacted regularly with Tulare County Child Protective Services and narrowly avoided foster care.