Human Rights

Twenty-four years after starting in the Office of Human Rights as an intern while at Prince George’s Community College, Jose Villegas was appointed as Executive Director of the Office of Human Rights by County Executive Aisha Braveboy in 2026. During his extensive career at the Office of Human Rights, Mr. Villegas served as an investigator, investigator team lead, manager of the Investigation Division, Deputy Director, and as Acting Executive Director on three occasions.

Because of his extensive background in the field, Mr. Villegas’ ongoing work leading the diverse staff of the office, conducting conciliations and mediations, overseeing the budget, and envisioning the future of the agency is experienced and thoughtful. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Mr. Villegas has developed and maintained professional relationships over two decades with a wide array of people across the County, enhancing the office’s reputation, mission, and outreach efforts. 

Mr. Villegas holds a Master of Science degree in Negotiation and Conflict Management from the University of Baltimore, a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland, and has extensive post-degree training in investigative techniques from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s National Fair Housing Training Academy, and the International Association of Official Human Rights Agencies.

It is an honor for Mr. Villegas to now serve the residents of the County and the staff of the Office of Human Rights as the Executive Director of the agency. His vision to enhance opportunities for youth and to promote civic and civil engagement for all people around the County, continues to strengthen the work of the office and promote equity and opportunity for all.