My name is Jacob T. Hernandez. I was born in Kansas City, Kansas and grew up in Phoenix, Arizona. After joining the Air Force at 17, I was thrilled to meet friends from all over the world, learn from incredible leadership in government, and work in the national security sector. I am grateful to have had access to an expansive education having attended the U.S. Air Force Academy and later graduating from the University of Arizona and Georgetown University. I became a College Park homeowner in 2020 and am blessed to live with my mother and teenage brother and sister, pictured here, who both attend local public schools.
I once read that we are all mosaics of our life lessons and experiences. With your vote, I hope to bring those experiences to the College Park City Council.
I’m running for City Council because I believe in the power of local government to strengthen communities and enhance the lives of all residents. In recent years we have seen division across too much in our daily lives. I value the neighborly spirit of College Park and the coexistence of our diverse communities.
I will work with everyone to champion your ideas and achieve a better city for all residents. The community of College Park has supported my family in innumerable ways, and I will return the favor as your Councilmember.
We can do this together. Lo podemos hacer juntos.
Jacob T. Hernandez
District 1 City Council Candidate
See Summary timeline below of my upbringing to help you better understand my core values.
Every one has an orgin story
* Mine started where I was born - Kansas City, Kansas
My path to College Park was not linear - I was born in Kanasas City, Kansas as a first generation American. Both of my parents’ roots lead back to Mexico and each of them instilled in me a sense of pride for our new homeland here in the United States of America. Both of my parents have always reminded me that through love, hard work, and community involvement we would be able to achieve the American Dream.
I moved to Phoenix for High School
I am a proud product of public schools. If I did not have a strong set of teachers and staff supporting me in my K-12 education, I would not be where I am today.
In my high school years I strongly developed many of my passions and character traits for civic involvement today. I participated in JROTC all four years of my high school experience and it helped me become civically aware while providing me with a purpose and community.
(Please note - I do not have that many “real” medals, lol)
At 17 - I joined the U.S. Air Force
At 17, I joined the U.S. Air Force, and as of July 2025, I have just completed my 15th year in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. It has been a tremendous honor of mine to serve in the defense of our country. Although my career has been far from traditional, I stand and will continue standing ready to defend our Constitution of the United States.
(In this role seeking a non-partisan role, I speak for myself and my views and opinions are my own and are not representative or related to the U.S. Department of War)
I firmly believe that education is the cornerstone of building the next generation. I began my higher education at the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School, then continuing to the U.S. Air Force Academy, and later graduating from the University of Arizona with my Bachelor’s degree. I earned my Master’s degree from Georgetown University in Washington D.C. with a heavy emphasis in National Security. My hope is that I can use my education to inspire others especially my siblings to continue their studies in higher education.
Earned My Master’s Degree from Georgetown University
Joined the U.S. Department of State
I am honored to serve as a Diplomat and Civil Servant at the U.S. Department of State. I joined the Department in 2021, first as a Political Desk officer, overseeing the Human rights and security portfolio, and this fall I celebrate my third year as a hostage negotiations officer in the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage. In these roles I have learned the importance of diplomacy but also of negotiations - each of which I aim to bring in my capacity as your representative.
(In this role seeking a non-partisan role, I speak for myself and my views and opinions are my own and are not representative or related to the U.S. Department of State)
September 19, 2023 - Resident Hernandez testifies before City Council
I learned firsthand the power we as residents have in our local government. My neighbors and I came together and removed parking enforcement on our street. I had heard the complaints of my neighbors and led a petition to REMOVE parking enforcement on our block. My neighbors provided the input and asked me to lead. We have been happy with no issues on our block ever since our action. This is where I knew - or better said was reminded - that the power remains with WE THE PEOPLE and that I as a resident had the ability to lead change.
Sworn in to City Council - Representing
District 1
In 2023, I was sworn in alongside my family (lol -don’t know why they chose to raise their hands - or why my sister chose to raise her left hand). I have had the tremendous pleasure to represent District 1 promising to improve city communications both to and from the residents, enhance educational opportunities, and advance representations of the unique perspectives in District 1. Goals are important to me because it provides transparency and predictability - in my next term I hope to Strengthen Economic Development, Strengthen Community Empowerment, and Strengthen Strategic Partnerships. Learn more about my focus areas and goals by clicking HERE.