We had the good fortune of connecting with Joseph Ross and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joseph, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in Kansas City, MO. My parents were Pastors of a local church. Our church was outreach focused so we were heavily involved with reaching people of our neighborhood which at the time was the meth capital of the world. So from a young age, I was seeing people come in off the streets, get clean, give their live to Jesus and restart their life. I think it was in those moments I developed a strong compassion for others and grew a passion to see people better themselves. Today, I’m continuing that mission to help people better themselves through as Pastor at my local church and as a Director at San Diego Christin College. I believe education is powerful and has the ability to change the trajectory of a life. If it wasn’t for upbringing, I’m not sure I would have such a passion for people.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I got my start with the Walt Disney Company as an intern. It was there I learned the value of storytelling and creating quality products and experiences. I loved the science behind that art and wanted to grow more in that so I moved back to Southern California and started my Master’s at USC. On my graduation day at USC, I got a job offer to teach at San Diego Christian College and eventually worked my way into my current role as Sr. Director of Communications & Customer Experience. There were challenges along the way, but I’ve learned that challenges are just an opportunity to rise. Being in my role, during a worldwide pandemic, was certainly challenging, but I’m grateful to have lived and learned through that. As I’ve grown, I’ve become more passionate about leadership development and developing our students to be leaders in the classroom and out in their community.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love Coronado Island. There’s a spot that overlooks the San Diego skyline and I’ve found moments of rest and peace in that spot for over 10 years now. As far as food goes, Seneca or Born & Raised are a must. They are my favorite restaurants in San Diego right now. I love coffee as well and I try to take my friends out to Cafe Motto or James Coffee.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people who have mentored me and loved me. Two people in particular are my Grandpa and my Dad. They both installed a strong work ethic in me. During highs and lows, they have been sources of encouragement and also humility.

A secondary hero has been Kobe Bryant. During some rough seasons of life, specifically in college, I would watch the video of Kobe hitting his free throws after tearing his Achilles and walking off like nothing had happened. There’s always obstacles that show up in our life, but ultimately there’s still a job that needs to get done. Hit your free throws. Get it done.

Website: joe@faithchapelsd.com or Joseph.Ross@SDCC.edu

Instagram: @joeross

Twitter: @thejoeross

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