Jay Cuttino, a Bronx native with roots in Georgetown, South Carolina, embodies a rich array of experiences and expertise. He has worked with the Navy for more than 16 years and currently serves as the Service Delivery and Operations Principal Assistant Program Manager. In this role, he oversees the Navy Enterprise Resource Planning system, driving its modernization and compliance with IT laws.
Cuttino earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of South Carolina and a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from Purdue University. He is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity from Howard University School of Divinity.
Cuttino is also the founder and creative force behind Street Disciple Clothing, a faith-inspired urban clothing brand that fuses spirituality with street style, and Street Disciple University. Cuttino’s multifaceted interests reveal his dedication to personal and collective growth, a commitment he passes to those he works with and mentors.
On what he’s proudest of
Cuttino is proudest of his role in fostering religious diversity through Street Disciple University. This non-profit organization is an educational platform for collaboration between individuals from various faith traditions. “Being a Street Disciple is not just a style; it’s a journey toward enlightenment and inclusivity,” Cuttino says.
On empowerment
Cuttino engages deeply in community outreach as a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and a Prince Hall Affiliated Mason. “Empowering young Black men through mentoring programs is particularly fulfilling,” he says, “as it guides them toward their own positive community contributions.”
His inspiration
Religious and world leaders. “[I see] Jesus as the ultimate Street Disciple in the gospel narratives. His radical compassion, inclusive love, and unwavering dedication to justice inspire me deeply,” Cuttino says. Understanding Jesus’ ministry, where he embraced the marginalized and challenged oppressive systems, fuels Cuttino’s own passion for social justice and community empowerment. He also draws inspiration from Nelson Mandela, who said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
The best advice he’s received
“Be willing to learn and always be willing to teach.”
Advice he would give
“Embrace the journey with an open mind and a commitment to continuous growth. Seek mentors who can guide you with wisdom and experience. Never underestimate the power of networking and building meaningful connections. Stay resilient in the face of challenges, and always maintain integrity in your actions. Remember to prioritize work-life balance and nurture your well-being along the way. And above all, never stop learning and expanding your horizons.”
