Francisco went on to be selected as a National Urban fellow to get a Master’s degree in Public Administration.

Francisco worked for the Queens Health Network at Elmhurst Hospital, where he was instrumental in securing $250,000 from a federal grant for a new mammogram machine. He was later promoted to Associate Director of Business Development, and in this role, helped develop three new community-based health clinics, including a cutting-edge wellness center for seniors and the first clinic in Queens solely dedicated to women’s health.

In 2003, Francisco was named Secretary to the Senate for Senate Minority Leader David A. Paterson, and became the highest-ranking Latino in state government. After the 2008 beating death of Ecuadorian immigrant Jose Sucuzhanay, Francisco acted as spokesperson for the family, and helped organize community rallies and vigils. Francisco continues to be a leader in the fight against hate crimes, and has organized local residents to protest against anti-immigrant policies in Washington.

Francisco is a member of the Corona Lions Club and a volunteer at the St. Leo’s Golden Age Club. He helped start the after-school sports program at St. Leo’s school in Corona, which has given a generation of local kids a safe and uplifting space in the neighborhood. Francisco serves as a District Leader, chairs Congressman Joe Crowley’s Latino Affairs Committee, and has been honored by numerous public officials for his years of tireless work on behalf of his community.