Javier W. Bustamante is a mission-driven higher education professional and pastoral leader with over 15 years of experience advancing equity, student success, and community engagement across academic and faith-based institutions. As a bilingual educator and immigrant, Javier brings a deep understanding of the cultural, social, and systemic barriers faced by historically underserved communities, including immigrant groups and multicultural populations. His lived experience informs his commitment to creating inclusive environments that affirm identity, promote belonging, and foster transformative leadership among students and community members alike. With a proven track record in strategic planning, leadership development, student retention, intercultural programming, and institutional change, Javier helps organizations chart clear pathways for growth while building the capacity of individuals and teams to lead with confidence and cultural fluency. He bridges academic and pastoral approaches to address the holistic needs of diverse student bodies, immigrant communities, and multicultural groups, ensuring that both systems and people are equipped to thrive.

Javier most recently served as the Director of the Center for Cultural Engagement at The Catholic University of America. In this role, he led the development and implementation of a holistic array of programs—social, cultural, intellectual, spiritual, governance, and community service—that advanced the university’s academic mission. As a senior administrator and educator, Javier provided strategic leadership for intercultural initiatives, served as a key resource for students and staff, and championed the university’s commitment to inclusion and student success. He designed and oversaw intentional programming focused on the recruitment, retention, and holistic enrichment of students—particularly those from non-traditional backgrounds, including first-generation college students, commuter students, students of color, and international students.

Previously, Javier served as Executive Director of the Office of Cultural Diversity and Outreach for the Archdiocese of Washington. He led efforts to support the pastoral and spiritual needs of the archdiocese’s diverse cultural communities, developing resources and cultivating leadership across parishes and Catholic institutions. He supported pastors in enhancing the evangelizing capacity of their parishes, participated in archdiocesan evangelization initiatives, and served as the primary liaison between the Central Pastoral Administration and parishes throughout the region.

Javier has dedicated much of his career to empowering youth and young adults at the local, regional, and national levels. He served as Director of the Catholic Youth Foundation USA and previously as Director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry in the Diocese of Metuchen, New Jersey.

He is currently a doctoral candidate in Higher Education Administration at The George Washington University. He holds a master’s degree in Latin American Studies from Georgetown University and a bachelor’s degree in History and Pastoral Theology from Loyola Marymount University. In addition, he earned a Certificate in Catholic Social Teaching from The Catholic University of America and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Georgetown University.