Joseph Valdalez
Age: 33
Birthplace: Tampa, FL
December 16, 2015
Bio
A Tampa native, Joseph’s family ties date back to the early 20th century in the cigar factories of historic Ybor City. Joseph works for HealthPlan Services, where he oversees the internal and external requirements set by government regulators and/or clients, compliance oversight over the organizations workforce and development and administration of workforce compliance training. Joseph graduated from the University of South Florida.
Philanthropic Efforts
Joseph is on the Human Relations Board for Hillsborough County, which reviews complaints filed under Hillsborough County’s Human Rights Ordinance. It promotes fair treatment and equal opportunity for people regardless of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation and gender identification or expression. He also sits on the Downtown Tampa YMCA Advisory Board, which strategizes to promote health and fitness and community development. Joseph’s contributions include Annual Campaign and 2015 Goody Goody Turkey Gobble 5K committee member.
What do you like to do for fun when not in the office?
When I’m not in the office, I like to partner with many local initiatives to better Tampa Bay. It is a great feeling to give your time and talents and see the positive impact it has on the community. If I’m not working with a local organization, I spend time with my sister. I have a 12-year-old sister, and we are very close. We enjoy attending festivals in the community and exploring local businesses.
What is your motto in life?
“Don’t wish for it, work for it.”
Who has been your mentor or role model?
Throughout my life there have been many individuals that have had a positive impact on my life. These individuals have contributed to who I am today. Everyone has different life experiences and many of these experiences, whether positive or negative, can be used as a learning experience to apply in your life. Overall, I can say my parents have been my longest role models/mentors. My parents have taught me the importance of diversity, sacrifice for loved ones and contributing your time and efforts to what you enjoy most.
What is your dream vacation?
Africa! In addition to visiting Egypt, going on a safari and diving with Great White Sharks, I also want to spend time volunteering in an underprivileged area. It is always a good feeling to give back, even on vacation.
If you could meet anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Walt Disney. I began my career as a Cast Member at the Walt Disney World Resort. The organization taught me many values that I still uphold professionally and personally. Some of those values include diversity and inclusion, innovation, respect to colleagues and customers and teamwork. Many of the values taught at the organization today are Walt’s personal values. As for questions I would ask, I cannot think of where I would start. Topics for discussion would include professional, personal and trivial.
If you could nominate someone else to be in the Top 10 Under 40, who would it be?
One person that sticks out is Sarah McKinley. I had the opportunity of meeting Sarah through the Mayor’s Neighborhood University. Sarah is dedicated to improving the City of Tampa and this can be seen through her involvement with various initiatives throughout the city. Sarah has developed amazing relationships throughout the city, is a wealth of information and is currently helping me with initiatives I am planning next year.
Where is your favorite place to visit in the Tampa Bay area?
The Tampa Riverwalk is an amazing experience that I take advantage whenever I have an opportunity. I am excited about the upcoming expansion of the walk to the Water Works Park. Once the expansion is complete, I will be able to walk to and from one of my favorite restaurants: Ulele.
