Patricia Mendez joins the Flaherty Family Foundation by way of Mexico City where she was born and raised until the age of 7, at which time she and her family moved to the United States.

When she moved to the US, Patricia learned early on the importance of a good education as a means to achieving her goals. With hard work, grit and determination during her matriculation in Baltimore City Public Schools, Patricia, a first generation college student ,was able to graduate from college debt free with a Bachelors of Arts in Community Education. 

Armed with her new learnings and education, Patricia wanted to give back in a meaningful way which led her to teach in the same school system which was the foundation of her strong education. Ms. Mendez worked for BCPS with the Office of Homeless Services and learned that an education lays the foundation for the future. It was through this employment experience that she was inspired to help all students succeed. She believes “our vision is expanded and our humbleness is increased through education, which creates awareness and opportunities.”

As the High School Scholar Success Mentor for Region 2 - Maryland, New Jersey, Virginia, Washington, D.C., Patricia enjoys supporting and mentoring our scholars, cultivating partner school relationships, as well as serving as a bi-lingual liaison for our Spanish speaking families. She sees herself as a living example that with self-motivation, a strong desire to succeed and the support of a strong “village” anything is possible. 

As one who continuously loves to learn new things, Patricia recently graduated from her alma mater, Trinity University with her Masters of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction. When she is not in school, you can find her relaxing, enjoying a cup of Horchata or spending time with her close knit family and her beloved bunnies, Onyx and Lola.