Born in the Azores, Portugal, Tony has called the Bay Area home for more than six decades and has been teaching at O’Dowd since 1986. He earned his BA in History from Santa Clara University, and completed his postgraduate studies at San Jose State University. Over a 45-year career, he has taught African American Studies, World History, and U.S. History, believing that history provides the foundation for human culture and offers insight into today’s challenges. He values O’Dowd’s commitment to questioning the status quo and fostering growth. In addition to decades of coaching and mentoring students through the Black Student Union, he is a frequent lecturer on African and African American Studies at universities and public forums across the country.