Orson Aguilar











Orson Aguilar is a nationally recognized leader in economic justice and wealth-building for communities of color. Driven by a deep commitment to social justice, Orson brings extensive experience in public affairs, policy development, advocacy, and community engagement. He has held significant roles throughout his career, including President of the Greenlining Institute, Executive Director at UnidosUS Action Fund, and Senior Director at Oportun. In these positions, Orson has consistently demonstrated effective leadership in crafting strategies, engaging stakeholders, and building coalitions to advance equitable policies and create opportunities for underserved communities.

Orson has actively contributed to various corporate advisory boards and the boards of leading nonprofit organizations. He currently serves on several governing boards, including The East Los Angeles Community Corporation, GreenLatinos, Innovate Public Schools, and Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice.

Orson has received numerous leadership appointments, including serving on the Federal Reserve of San Francisco’s Community Advisory Council, Bank of America’s National Community Advisory Council, BBVA’s Community Advisory Council, JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s Community Advisory Board, and PG&E’s Community Advisory Council. In 2018, Assemblymember Rob Bonta honored Orson with The Equity Champion Award. In 2019, Congresswoman Barbara Lee recognized him with a Congressional Record Award, and Oakland’s Mayor proclaimed April 26, 2019, as Orson Aguilar Day. Orson has testified before Congress and has been quoted in various news outlets, including The Los Angeles Times, CNBC News, Our Weekly, Univision, Telemundo, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today.

Throughout Orson’s professional career and leadership development, his advocacy for equitable policy practices has been deeply informed by his experience of being born and raised in the low-income neighborhood of Boyle Heights in Los Angeles. This background has given him a unique understanding of the challenges faced by underserved populations and the success that can be achieved when equitable opportunities and resources are accessible.





Orson lives in Southern California with his wife and their three children. He loves the outdoors and serves as an Adult Leader for his children’s Scouting America troops.