[Jasper] will use his skills “to support local startups, aiming to implement technology solutions that promote inclusive and sustainable growth.”

After graduating from high school, Jasper Tinoco enlisted in the Army National Guard, where he served for over five years. His time in the military not only honed his leadership skills but also deepened his commitment to community service. Following his military service, Jasper returned to school with a renewed sense of purpose, enrolling at Grand Rapids Community College. Excelling in his studies, he transferred to the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in information analysis. His passion for technology and social impact then led him to the School of Information’s graduate program, where he is now pursuing a master’s degree in user-centered agile development.

Jasper’s time at U-M has been marked by outstanding achievement, particularly his leadership within optiMize, a campus organization dedicated to entrepreneurship and social impact. At optiMize, Jasper played a key role in enhancing the Social Innovate Challenge management system. His work, which integrated data analysis and user-centered development, significantly improved the challenge’s efficiency, reflecting Jasper’s ability to apply his technical expertise to real-world social issues.

In addition to his work with optiMize, Jasper has a history of mentoring and leading within the Innovate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program management and computer literacy initiatives. He has consistently sought to create inclusive environments, whether through designing innovative DEI outreach programs at the university or teaching technical skills to underserved communities in West Michigan.

Jasper’s commitment to community has not gone unnoticed. As one of his professors notes, “Jasper made the classroom a place where everyone felt more comfortable asking for help and supporting one another.” After graduation, Jasper will be honored as a Venture For America Fellow, where (as he writes) he will use his skills “to support local startups, aiming to implement technology solutions that promote inclusive and sustainable growth.”

CEW+ celebrates Jasper’s community-centered spirit and names him an Irma M. Wyman Scholar.