Juan Mendoza, MC Alumni Spotlight: Finding Purpose Through Clinical Studies, Art, and Serving the Alumni Association

A Career-Defining Path

Juan Mendoza's journey at Montgomery College began in 1999, when he enrolled as an adult student, still exploring his true passions in life. After spending 20 years working in Washington, D.C.'s banking industry, including at Riggs National Bank, Mendoza found himself among many affected by layoffs. This pivotal moment led him to search for a new career path and little did he know Montgomery College would soon transform his life.

While taking classes, Mendoza developed a strong interest in the medical and scientific fields. One professor in particular, Dr. Charles Marcantonio, played a key role in igniting his passion for clinical mental health. Dr. Marcantonio, a beloved figure who retired with emeritus status in 2016 and passed away in 2017, was instrumental in developing and teaching the highly regarded mental health associate degree program. He left a lasting impact on his students and colleagues, including Mendoza.

After graduating from Montgomery College in 2003, Mendoza obtained a graduate degree in psychology from Marymount University and completed a specialization program in medical neuroscience from Duke University. He enjoyed a successful career in the medical field, participating in the Intramural Research Training Award  Fellowship Program at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and later serving as a clinical research technician at NIH’s Clinical Center. He retired in 2014. 

Learning from the Arts

Mendoza always dreamed of playing percussion, but his busy schedule of work and studies never afforded him the chance. After retiring from NIH in 2014, he finally pursued this long-held passion. He returned to the College, enrolling in Introduction to West African Drumming at the Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus, eager to explore his musical dreams.

Since 2014, Mendoza has deepened his education in West African culture and drumming, learning from griot performers, visiting Ghana for training, and soon traveling The Gambia for training on the kora and balafon. He performs with the group Soul In Motion Players, Inc.new window, which shares the richness and experiences of African-American culture through theatre, dance, and drumming. He performed at their 40th anniversary concert and the City of Rockville International Night 2024 concert at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater. Furthermore, he is a member of MC’s World Ensemble, where he has helped recruit new students and stay connected to the MC community.  “We are an ensemble. We play together. The relationship that we build is based on trust and respect. It is a feeling that we can apply in our daily life.”

The MC World Ensemble will have a concert at the end of the semester on Wednesday, December 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center. More information about the group and how to get involved can be found here. Outside of the World Ensemble, Mendoza has taken courses in sewing (see Community Arts catalog for the pictured example of his worknew window), batik, quilting, drawing, and music theory—and he continues to pursue courses that build new relationships and expand his skills. He hopes to raise funds and awareness to upgrade and expand musical instruments for the MC Music Program.

Serving the MC Alumni Association

Montgomery College has always been a part of Mendoza’s personal and professional life. After receiving the Milton F. Clogg Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award in 2006, he got involved with the Alumni Association Board of Governors as a way to give back to the MC community that gave so much to him. He served on the Alumni Board from 2006-2010, during which he served with the Association’s Outreach Committee and the Awards and Scholarships Committee.

In his role on the Awards and Scholarships Committee, Mendoza reviewed student applications and evaluated each candidate to select the recipients of the Alumni Association awards and scholarships. After the decision-making process, the committee invited the awardees to an Alumni Association Board of Governors meeting. This event provided a valuable opportunity for students and alumni to connect with board members and gain insight into the Alumni Association.

Mendoza’s story exemplifies the incredible impact Montgomery College and the MC Alumni Association. MC played a pivotal role in his career and personal success at various stages of his life, while the Alumni Association inspired him to give back to the community. Mendoza hopes his journey encourages others to engage with the Alumni Association and create their own paths of success. Learn more about the MC Alumni Association.

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