Finding Purpose Through Community
"The COE allowed me to have access to the professionals in my field which allowed me to see what someone is capable of doing in this line of work." --Gibbs Orozco
For Gilberto Orozco, '22, a graduate of the University of Oregon College of Education’s Family and Human Services program, the path to his career has always been rooted in connection. Today, as a Services Coordinator for Lane County Developmental Disabilities Services, he spends his days helping others build independence, something he finds deeply meaningful.
Orozco did not always have a clear roadmap for where his degree would take him. What he did have was curiosity and a willingness to learn from the people and opportunities around him. Reflecting on his time at the University of Oregon, he shared, “Having the opportunity to attend UO and experience a new environment with helpful and determined people allowed me to learn more about the programs we have in our community.” That exposure gave him an early understanding of the kinds of support systems that exist for families and individuals, something that now directly informs his work.
His experience in the College of Education gave him more than just academic knowledge. It showed him what was possible in a helping profession. “Having access to the professionals in this field allowed me to see what someone is capable of doing in this line of work,” he explained. Advisors and graduate students became especially important guides along the way. He remembers that they “were able to point me to the right direction” while also relating to what it felt like to be a student navigating school and life.
Like many college students, Orozco leaned heavily on the people closest to him. His family played a critical role in helping him stay grounded and motivated. “My family was a huge support system,” he said. “They would help inspire me and continue to provide me with their unconditional support on whatever I wanted to do.” At the same time, friendships formed in classrooms and residence halls helped him feel like he belonged. Those relationships made a difference during challenging moments and encouraged him to keep going.
One of the most memorable and meaningful moments from his journey came unexpectedly, long after he had left the classroom. While working, he ran into a former Spanish teacher who had been especially important to him during his time at the university. “We talked very briefly, but the consensus of the conversation was ultimately she wanted to see me working in a new environment, something related to my degree,” he recalled. What stood out most to him was how supported he felt in that moment. “I did not feel judged,” he said, adding that her encouragement stayed with him. Today, he tries to mirror that same sense of care and belief in the people he serves.
During his junior and senior years, Orozco began working in direct support roles with community agencies. Those experiences opened his eyes to career options he had not previously considered. “It allowed me to learn about some new careers that I did not know about,” he said. That hands-on work helped him connect what he was learning in class to real-life situations and ultimately led him to his current role.
Now, in his job as a Services Coordinator, the moments that stand out most are not single achievements but everyday interactions. He finds meaning in listening, learning, and working alongside others. “Any moment I am able to learn, listen to someone new, hear their stories and work towards a common goal of striving for independence is when I feel most affirmed,” he said. Seeing individuals continue to work toward their goals, supported by their families and communities, is what he enjoys most.
Orozco has also taken on a bilingual support role within his team, something he finds especially rewarding. It has allowed him to connect with more families and provide support in a way that feels personal and accessible. “It has been great meeting new families and being someone they can call for support,” he shared.
Looking ahead, Orozco hopes to keep growing while continuing to support others. He is interested in stepping into a leadership role someday but remains focused on learning and being present for the people around him. “I want to continue being a support to others, not only in the community but also internally on my team,” he said. He hopes to become someone others can rely on, both professionally and personally.
His goals extend beyond his career as well. He hopes to travel more and experience new places, including traveling outside the country. At the same time, he remains deeply connected to Eugene, often revisiting familiar places and staying active in the community. Whether it is running with the Silenus Run Club or participating in events like the Eugene Half Marathon, he continues to build a life that blends personal fulfillment with professional purpose.
If he could offer advice to his younger self, Orozco would encourage more balance. While he was focused on his studies, he now sees the value in building connections outside the classroom as well. “It’s okay to go and socialize and network with people at the university,” he said. For him, those connections have been just as important as any course he took.
At its core, Orozco’s story is about people. From the family who supported him, to the professor who inspired him, to the individuals and families he now serves, his journey has been shaped by relationships. Through his work, he continues to give back, helping others move toward independence while creating a sense of support and belonging along the way.