Michelle Alcantar serves as LEAF’s Program Coordinator for the College Success Program, rooted in the belief that education is at the heart of community liberation. As a first-generation college graduate and product of East San José public schools, she brings both personal experience and direct advising background to her work. Having served as a LEAF Mentor and DCAC College Adviser Fellow, Michelle has guided hundreds of underrepresented students through college planning, financial management, and postsecondary transitions.

Michelle earned her B.A. in Public Policy from UC Riverside to advance educational equity. Combining policy insights with a passion for student advocacy, she partners directly with Latinx scholars and their families—in both English and Spanish—to navigate higher education with purpose and confidence.