Dr. César Briones is an interdisciplinary scholar and educator whose work focuses on youth development, community thriving, and youth-led social action. He brings over a decade of experience collaborating with youth-serving organizations, universities, and governmental institutions across the Americas. His research examines the sociopolitical dimensions of youth voice, civic engagement, and identity development, particularly among adolescents and young adults involved in community-based service and activism.
Before joining the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Briones held a range of educational and advisory roles in international cooperation projects addressing public health, drug policy, and inclusive education. Originally trained as a clinical and counseling psychologist, he worked in both clinical and organizational settings, including a notable tenure with the National Police of Nicaragua. There, he designed and implemented a comprehensive mental health program for high-stress patrol and intelligence units, contributed to internal investigations, and supervised a team of psychological professionals.
Dr. Briones is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Foreign Student Award, which supported his graduate studies in the United States. He holds a Ph.D. in Education and Human Development with a concentration in youth and community development. His teaching is grounded in culturally responsive, participatory, and critical pedagogies that prioritize student empowerment and transformative learning.
In addition to his academic work, Dr. Briones is engaged in union leadership, DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) initiatives, and public scholarship. He currently serves as President of the Greater Pittsburgh Fulbright Association Chapter. His ongoing research explores developmental differences in youth voice, cross-cultural understandings of thriving, and the role of storytelling in community empowerment.
Outside of work, Dr. Briones is an avid motorcycle enthusiast who believes few things rival the clarity of thought that comes from a long ride and a good playlist. He also likes to fashion himself as a frozen banana connoisseur—a tragically underrated dessert form he’s happy to discuss between lectures.
Dr. Briones teaches courses in youth and childhood development, community education, and human development across the lifespan. His instructional work highlights critical pedagogy, experiential learning, and the integration of public scholarship into academic curricula.
He also contributes to training programs in education, international studies, and psychology.
- Youth voice and civic engagement
- Youth activism and identity formation
- Community-based education and development
- International education
- Cross-cultural human development
- Qualitative and participatory research methodologies
- Fulbright Foreign Graduate Student Award (U.S. Department of State)
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarship (European Commission)
President, Greater Pittsburgh Fulbright Association