Manny Lopez

Manny Lopez is an Education Specialist with a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction and over six years of classroom experience. Currently based in Oxnard, CA, they work with students who have emotional disabilities, focusing on empowerment, inclusion, and real-world relevance—particularly in subjects like Economics that help students grow their own human capital.

Before entering the field of education, Manny served in the United States Marine Corps from 1998 to 2004, participating in Operations Noble Eagle, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. Following their military service, they spent five years in the renewable energy sector before returning to school to pursue a career in education.

They are also the founder of the Reel Raiders Fishing Club at CIHS, an initiative that connects students—including those with IEPs—to conservation, healthy recreation, and community through fishing. The club partners with local businesses to provide meaningful and supportive experiences for youth.

Beyond their work in schools, Manny remains deeply connected to the veteran community. They volunteer with Military Animal Project and Mission Fish, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, they trained their own service dog, Choco, virtually with MAP’s guidance. This experience blended a lifelong passion for dog training with a mission to support fellow veterans.

Driven by their commitment to MAP’s mission, Manny now serves as the Director of Dog Training for the Ventura County Chapter of the Military Animal Project. In this role, they are excited to continue building partnerships that support the well-being of both veterans and animals.