Dr. Felipe Mercado is a professor in the Department of Social Work at California State University, Fresno, and the founder of Wise Soul LLC, a consulting firm focused on integrating compassion and wellness into education and community settings. Dr. Mercado’s career spans over two decades and includes roles as an elementary school principal, counselor, social worker, and curriculum designer. He earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership, bringing a wealth of experience from diverse positions within the education and mental health fields.
Dr. Mercado’s professional journey began with hands-on roles in underserved communities, where he developed programs to address trauma and promote resilience among youth. He later advanced these practices as a school principal, where he pioneered the Wise Compassionate Framework, significantly reducing suspension rates and fostering supportive, inclusive school cultures.
A published author, Dr. Mercado’s book, A Journey to Compassion: Learning to Stand Firm in the Face of Pain, has become a six-time Amazon bestseller and received an International Award for Most Inspirational Book. Dr. Mercado’s dedication to compassionate leadership is evident in his collaborations with national and international organizations, including the Compassion Institute and the World Happiness Academy. Through his teaching, writing, and community engagement, he continues to inspire and equip individuals and institutions to promote empathy, resilience, and equity in all areas of life. For more information on his initiatives, visit wise-souls.com.
