Decision Maker

Mark Gonzales

Avondale ESD 44 School Board

Mark Gonzales, widely known as "Gonz" or "the Godfather," is an influential American professional skateboarder and artist. He is celebrated as a pioneer in modern street skating and is credited alongside Natas Kaupas with executing the first known boardslides on a handrail. Gonzales has significantly shaped the world of skateboarding, earning him the title of the "Godfather of Modern Street Skateboarding." In December 2011, Transworld Skateboarding magazine honored him as the "Most Influential Skateboarder of All Time," ranking him ahead of legends like Tony Hawk and Rodney Mullen. Beyond his skateboarding prowess, Gonzales is also an accomplished artist and screenwriter, continuing to impact both the skateboarding and art communities with his innovative and creative spirit.