Save the Family is proud to welcome Dr. Ray Ostos, District Director for Student Affairs at Maricopa Community Colleges, to its Board of Directors. A lifelong advocate for student success and access to education, Dr. Ostos brings decades of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges today’s students and families face.
Ray’s journey is a powerful testament to the impact of education and support systems. A first-generation college student, he admits he struggled during his early semesters at New Mexico State University until professors and staff helped him feel connected and supported. That experience shaped his career path. “As an undergrad, I was hired as a peer mentor, and I’ve been tied to leadership and student success ever since,” Ray shares.
Today, Ray oversees student success programs and initiatives, collaborating with all ten Maricopa Community Colleges, ensuring that students not only stay in school but thrive. His work focuses on helping students achieve their educational goals, navigate financial hardship, and balance academics with family responsibilities. His work also includes establishing key partnerships with organizations. “ 72% of our students are part-time and 47% are first-generation,” he explains. “Quite a few are parents. Housing is a huge barrier for many of them.”
Partnering to Create Change
Ray’s connection with Save the Family began in 2022 when CEO Robyn Julien reached out to discuss a new partnership: the Phoenix Scholar House. Designed to provide affordable housing for student parents pursuing their education, the project immediately resonated with him.
“Housing is a big challenge,” he says. “Rent is expensive, and we don’t have dorms on our campuses. When you have an organization like Save the Family that can provide stable housing and wraparound support—it’s a game changer.”
Through this collaboration, Ray came to understand the depth of Save the Family’s mission. “Before Robyn reached out, I didn’t even know this nonprofit existed,” he admits. “Now that I do, I want everyone to know. The work they’re doing is amazing.”
A Voice for Students—and Families
Earlier this year, Robyn invited Ray to join the Save the Family Board of Directors, making him the first higher education representative to serve. It’s a role he embraces wholeheartedly.
“I love being the connection point between Save the Family and higher education,” Ray says. “I see myself as an advocate—spreading the word about Save the Family, connecting others to their mission, and helping students and families access the resources that can change their lives.”
His passion for education stems from personal experience. “Education has opened so many doors for me,” he says. “I’ve had a good life, and I want that for our students too. Whatever we can do to support them—to give them stability, opportunity, and hope—I’m all in.”
Looking Ahead
As the Phoenix Scholar House prepares to open in early 2026, Ray looks forward to continuing to bridge the worlds of education and housing. “At Maricopa Community Colleges, we talk about the ‘menu of success’—different pathways like degrees, certificates, and other educational programs that meet students where they are,” he explains. “When we combine that with the housing stability Save the Family provides, it creates a foundation for real, lasting change.”
