Jason Schmidt Avendaño
Jason Schmidt Avendaño, M.A. (He, Him, El), is an applied researcher specializing in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), social impact, and workforce development. As a Ph.D. Candidate in Social Neuroscience at the University of South Florida, his research investigates how chronic emotional experiences of both pride and prejudice shape emotional regulation at the neural level in LGBTQ+ individuals. His career is driven by a commitment to bridging research and practice to drive meaningful social change, leveraging neuroscience, data-driven insights, and DEI frameworks to create inclusive and equitable systems.
Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, FL
Guiding Values
Professional Philosophy
At the core of everything I do—whether in research, advocacy, or daily interactions—is a commitment to being intentional, values-driven, and equity-focused. M.I.N.D. represents the guiding principles that shape both my work and my life, ensuring that every action I take aligns with my mission to foster meaningful change. These values are not just theoretical; they influence how I engage with people, approach challenges, and build solutions that are inclusive, impactful, and sustainable. By centering Meaningful, Inclusive, Nurturing, and Deliberate practices, I strive to create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered—whether in academic settings, community work, or personal relationships.
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🔹 Meaningful – I strive for work that is impactful and purpose-driven, ensuring that every initiative, research project, and advocacy effort contributes to tangible change and deeper understanding.
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🔹 Inclusive – I am committed to fostering spaces where all identities are valued and represented, embedding intersectionality into research, policy, and practice to create equitable opportunities for everyone.
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🔹 Nurturing – I believe in cultivating growth—both in myself and in those around me—by fostering supportive environments that empower individuals, amplify marginalized voices, and champion well-being.
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🔹 Deliberate – I approach every endeavor with intention and thoughtfulness, ensuring that my actions are data-informed, ethically grounded, and aligned with my mission to create lasting, systemic change.​
