Jefferson Isai Rosa

Isai Rosa is a Manager of Community Engagement at the LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro), where he lives out his passion for urban planning and community development. For the past nine years, he has served in Metro projects that leave lasting infrastructure impacts on the communities they serve. Isai’s journey began with community engagement and project mitigation for the construction of Metro’s K-Line in Crenshaw and Inglewood. Isai has led community and government affairs for light-rail construction, highway construction, and bus transit development. He is currently responsible for managing community engagement for countywide planning projects and managing LA Metro’s Public Safety Advisory Committee.

Isai’s academic journey led him to USC’s School of Public Policy, where he earned Master’s Degrees in Urban Planning and Public Administration. Motivated by a deep sense of responsibility towards his community, Isai is driven to ensure historically neglected communities and populations are heard and included in the decision-making process for public infrastructure projects.

Beyond his professional duties, Isai serves on the board of “Elevate Your G.A.M.E.”, an organization focused on mentoring high-school youth in Compton and Long Beach. Isai was born in El Salvador, raised in Compton, and has lived in China as an English teacher, which adds depth to his understanding and appreciation of diverse communities. He is honored and excited to have been selected as a Council of Urban Professionals Fellow. He enjoys connecting with peers of similar passions and constantly learning.