Profile

Mr. Jose “Pepe” Espinoza graduated from Erskine in 1983 with a B.A. in Natural Sciences. He currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia, and is the president of Nakima Solutions, a cross-border Mexican food distributor and marketing company serving key Latino markets in the U.S.

Why I Serve on the Erskine Alumni Board

Erskine changed my life. I left Mexico at 17 years of age with minimal English skills and little understanding of American college life. I arrived on campus uncertain—but I was quickly embraced by the Erskine community. From day one, the people at Erskine—students, professors, cafeteria staff, librarians, janitors, administrators, and church leaders—made me feel seen, supported, and valued.

Erskine didn’t just give me an education. It gave me survival skills, confidence, lifelong friendships, and a deep understanding of what true leadership and empathy look like. I learned to think strategically, to lead with heart, and to value diversity and service.

To this day, I remain connected to my classmates and deeply grateful for the experience that shaped who I am. Serving on the Alumni Board is just one way I can give back to the institution that gave me so much.

Why I Give to Erskine

Erskine took a young man from Mexico—who spoke broken English and had no idea what to expect from college—and gave me a family, a future, and the confidence to thrive. Every step of the way, someone at Erskine believed in me. That kind of support doesn’t just stay with you—it shapes you for life.

Giving back, even in a small way, is the least I can do for a place that gave me so much. I care deeply about Erskine because it changed my life. That’s why I stay connected, stay involved, and continue supporting the next generation of students.