For over 10 years, Lauren has dedicated her professional career to being an advocate for equity in education and student outcomes. She started her career as the only foreign language teacher at a turnaround school in Detroit, MI, and developed an engaging K-8 Spanish curriculum that exposed students to new language, cultures, and experiences both in and out of the classroom. Lauren went on to earn a Master's in Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis where she pursued a year-long practicum at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Missouri and developed a program to empower young adults through professional and networking skills. Lauren has spent the last six years as a college counselor at a charter school in Chicago where her students achieved ambitious college and career outcomes. Lauren believes each young person has a unique story and through strong relationships she helps students connect to their own strengths, passions, and goals. Outside of work, you can find Lauren staying active outdoors, searching for the best Middle Eastern restaurant, talking with her four younger siblings over Facetime, or binging a good book or TV show.

Oakland University | Masters in Arts and Teaching
Washington University, St. Louis | Bachelor of Arts & Masters in Social Work

"I believe all students deserve joyful and inclusive spaces that empower them to think creatively and critically so they can ultimately access and lead choice-filled lives."

Andrew was born in San Francisco and raised in San Rafael. He went to Sun Valley Elementary School, Davidson Middle School, San Rafael High School, and College of Marin. After a short stint at American University, he earned a BA degree from UCSD in International Studies and Sociology. During his time at UCSD, he studied abroad in Santiago, Chile. Andrew enjoys basketball, studying languages, playing music, cooking, and exploring nature and traveling.

University of California - San Diego | Bachelor of Arts

“I see education as the single greatest tool we have as a society to combat injustice and inequality. At NGS, I'm able to work with students to overcome barriers to high quality education so that they are equipped to better their lives and combat inequality in their communities.”

For almost 15 years, Shawn has explored his personal commitment to education through the lenses of higher and secondary education, doctoral studies and research consultation, and identity and equity leadership. As a first-generation student studying Physics, Mathematics, Molecular Sciences, and Nanotechnology, he experienced inequities in STEM education fairly early in life. This awareness, paired with Shawn's core educational philosophy of "You just don't know it yet", has led to a passion for developing pedagogical practices intended to address blind spots that inhibit effective learning across all disciplines.

Louisiana Tech University | PhD
Tougaloo College | Bachelor of Arts

“I know what it's like to be overlooked and underrepresented in my own spaces; the intersections of my identities might not fully mirror that of our [NGS] community... but, everyday, we walk the margins of society together.”

Growing up with two immigrant parents from Guatemala, I have been passionate about uplifting those who are underrepresented in society. This led me to pursue a higher education at Dominican University of California to acquire a Bachelors in Psychology and currently working towards a Master's Degree in MFT, Art Therapy. I believe each young scholar has the potential to achieve greatness by adhering to their strengths, values, and accomplishments.

If I am not at NGS or Dominican, you can find me mountain biking in Marin, going to the beach, or listening to live music.

When community lifts us, we rise higher together. I teach to give students the tools, the confidence, and the belief that their story matters and their future is limitless.

Llesica is a graduate of UC Merced with a B.A. in Psychology and has been part of the Middle School Program for six years; initially as the 7th Grade Lead Teacher and currently as our Middle School Director. Being a daughter of Guatemalan immigrants and growing up in the community, she knows firsthand the challenges of becoming a first-generation college graduate.

University of California - Merced | Bachelor of Arts

“As a teacher, I get to witness "a-ha" moments in the classroom and build relationships with each student that go beyond the classroom. It's a real joy to witness the growth of each Scholar as they progress through the program, especially those that started in my classroom as middle schoolers.”

Jessuina was born and raised in Nicaragua, arriving in the U.S. in her late teens with her tween brother. She knows firsthand the immigrant experience, especially of those arriving without parents and assuming the responsibility of raising a younger sibling. She attended school to learn English so that she could pursue a career. At different times, she earned a Bachelor in Social Work, a Bachelor of Arts in Labor Studies, and a Master’s in Social Work from San Francisco State University. Eventually, Jessuina earned a dual doctorate in Social Work and Political Science from the University of Michigan. She has over 20 years of experience working with immigrant communities. She worked with farm workers in the California Central Coast, and with immigrant communities in Marin County. Jessuina developed a program to organize the Canal neighborhood residents to improve the health and safety of their apartments. She has over 10 years of teaching experience. She has taught both undergraduate and graduate classes in social work and political science. Jessuina is passionate about facilitating a process through which people discover and cultivate their own power.

University of Michigan | Doctorate in Social Work and Political Science
San Francisco State University | Master’s in Social Work
San Francisco State University | Bachelor in Social Work, Bachelor of Arts in Labor Studies

Ruben grew up three miles north of the Mexican-American border in South San Diego in a predominantly low-income neighborhood. During a short time away from San Diego, he pursued a Bachelors from UCLA and later an M.Ed. from Harvard. Ruben's professional aspiration is to help students reach their full potential and this aspiration has led him home where he supports a long-term cohort-based scholars program at UC San Diego where their mission is to help students graduate with options. He is extremely excited to bring his skillset, passion, and professional network to Next Generation Scholars.

Harvard University | Masters in Education
University of California, Los Angeles | Bachelor of Arts

“There are no failures, only perceived failures. Everything is a learning lesson.”

I am a SoCal native that moved to the bay area 10 years ago. Prior to entering graduate school I taught 10 year of middle school history/electives. I am now embarking on a new journey that will enable me to serve students in a different capacity. I hope to graduate with my masters in school counseling and MFT in the spring of 2027.

I have a deep admiration and respect for the opportunities that NGS creates for the students. I feel honored to work alongside NGS scholars who want to better future for their communities.

Eric grew up in Roseville, California, within a large Greek-American family where things were generally loud, the food was good, and education was seen as the cornerstone of opportunity. His mother, a first-generation college graduate, devoted her career to public education, and her example instilled in Eric a commitment to expanding educational access and inclusion, values that make the mission of NGS especially personal.

Professionally, Eric brings over a decade of experience leading fundraising and development efforts at independent schools in Southern California, Silicon Valley, and Marin, building strong donor communities, leading successful campaigns, and consistently exceeding fundraising goals. As Director of Development, Eric is excited to partner with the NGS team and community to grow the organization’s impact, ensuring NGS will continue breaking barriers, developing leaders, and ensuring educational opportunities for all.

Eric is a graduate of California State University, Long Beach. Outside of work, you’ll often find him spending time in Truckee, exploring various neighborhoods of the city, at Oracle Park cheering on the Giants, or watching the 49ers on TV because he can’t handle Levi Stadium.

“I believe education transforms families and communities, builds bridges of opportunity that empower students to thrive and, in turn, lift others as they climb. The work of NGS ensures that no student feels invisible in the shadow of wealth. Each gift is a message that says you are valued, you are capable, and you deserve every opportunity to succeed. I feel grateful to have the opportunity to partner with the NGS community to deliver this positive change in Marin, and the world through the work of NGS alumni.”

Mike has spent 30 years at Deloitte in various client leadership roles. His interest in education and underserved youth in the Bay Area is evident in his board roles at Aim High and Summer Search, in addition to his current board role at NGS. He also serves on the Finance Committee of St. Anthony’s Church. He has a BA from Wits University in South Africa, and a CPA accreditation.

“NGS has made a significant impact on the lives of many scholars and fellow Marin residents. I want to help sustain and grow that to serve many more for generations to come.”

Andy spent over 30 years in the corporate world including roles with Barclays Global Investors (Blackrock), Charles Schwab, and the Boston Consulting Group. In addition, he has served on the Board of Trustees of Marin Montessori School and as an Encore Fellow at SMASH, an Oakland based educational non-profit focused on serving high school students of color interested in STEM. He has a BA from Brown University and an MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management.

“As the parent of two current college students, a former Independent School board member, and a Fellow at an educational non-profit, I recognize the inequities that exist in providing students equal access to higher education. I'm proud to be part of NGS given its mission to support motivated students and their families in Marin as they shape their identities and future pathways.”

Raised in a multicultural family, Pam's many worlds inspire her enthusiasm for this work. Of Chinese, Hawaiian and Caucasian descent, Pam lived in Hong Kong for seven years working as an equity research analyst, and then in the US for Salomon Smith Barney/Citigroup, and other firms. A 27-year resident of Marin County, Pam is an active community volunteer. She served as board chair of Belvedere Hawthorne Nursery Schools Inc and as Parents Association President of Marin Country Day School. Passionate about racial justice and equity, Pam works with children and families in Marin's underserved communities. She tutored kids for Bridge the Gap College Prep and collaborated on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at Marin Country Day School and Marin Academy. A Coro Northern California Women in Leadership Fellow, Pam graduated from Lake Forest College with a B.A. degree in Economics and Politics.

“Why NGS? It is inspiring to see the success of NGS students as they become the first in their families to attend college and beyond. NGS has an impressive track record, and I am proud to work to help break down structural barriers to education.”

Damon is a longtime Marin educator. He began his career teaching history at the Branson School and subsequently served as head at Mark Day School for 24 years. Since his retirement, he has been an interim head at Branson, a performance coach with the leadership consulting group Stand & Deliver, and chair of the Accrediting Commission for Schools of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC). He’s been a member of the Board of Trustees at both Marin Academy and Branson. Damon received an A.B. in History from Kenyon College and an M.A. in Education (Learning, Design, and Technology) from Stanford University.

“I watched with appreciation as Next Generation Scholars got off the ground in the early 2000s, having an incredibly positive impact on its participants even in those early days. I’m very excited to see how now, as an institution, it has grown and matured, broadening and deepening its influence in its students’ lives, preparing them for success in both school and life.”e lives of many scholars and fellow Marin residents. I want to help sustain and grow that to serve many more for generations to come.”

Anuar grew up in Marin County and now lives in San Francisco where he practices immigration and business law. He believes that helping immigrants realize their immigration and business goals is important to creating a more diverse and vibrant country because diversity breeds innovation, market growth, and an overall more beautiful world. Before studying law, Anuar worked in public service, where he was able to see first-hand how the different societal systems contribute to the endemic problem of inequality. And if education is at the crux of inequality, Anuar is impassioned to help NGS close the equity gap.

“As a first-generation immigrant I received the invaluable gift of a quality education in programs like NGS. I have since reaped the rewards of that gift and I want other future generations of students to share that opportunity.”

Rachel has spent over 30 years working in technical education. Her passion for teaching started when she was an English instructor at a university in Mexico, and it grew as she went on to lead technical training and workforce development teams at companies like Salesforce, Okta, and ServiceNow. She’s a firm believer that everyone deserves equal access to higher education and the support needed to reach their goals. A lifelong Marin County resident, Rachel has seen firsthand the inequalities in her community, which has fueled her dedication to closing gaps in education, housing, and food security.

“I'm so inspired by Next Generation Scholars because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive. The organization's commitment to empowering first-generation youth through education and leadership deeply aligns with my values and lifelong work in closing equity gaps.”

Andy is the Middle School Division Head at The Hamlin School, a K-8 independent school for girls in San Francisco, where he also taught middle school English. He previously taught 6th and 7th grade English Language Arts at KIPP Summit Academy, a public charter school in San Lorenzo serving students in Grades 5-8. He received his Master's degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University and his B.A. from the Residential College at the University of Michigan. Andy lives in San Rafael.

"It is an honor to support NGS's mission and commitment to providing Marin students and families with vital educational opportunities, tools, and resources. I am so inspired by the Community Uplift projects and NGS students' palpable sense of joy and purpose."

Edward Wang has 20+ years of experience in philanthropy, social innovation, and nonprofit management. In his current role as Vice President of The Family Office of Philanthropy, he leads a team of experienced philanthropic advisors at Marin Community Foundation (MCF) to provide support on giving strategy, family conversations, in-depth issue research, and effective giving practices to donors who work with MCF as the philanthropic arm of their family office. Most recently, Edward was the Vice President of Donor Engagement at Silicon Valley Community Foundation, leading a team to support and advise the region's philanthropists in maximizing their philanthropic impact. Edward also served as the Director of Corporate Social Impact at Tides; he led the growth of Tides corporate portfolio, expanding the scope of services to meet evolving needs and influencing the future direction of the sector. Additionally, Edward advised on several cross-culture projects, including the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra’s performance at the opening celebrations of 2008 Summer Games in Beijing.

"The work of NGS is critical in advancing education equity in Marin and beyond. I'm inspired by stories of NGS students and motivated to help scale its impact."

Clint's educational experience is wide-ranging -- from serving as a teacher, coach, college counselor, dean of students, principal and board member to becoming the founding CEO of a thriving independent high school in Southern California. Most recently he has turned his attention to low-income youth, serving as the Interim Executive Director with Next Generation Scholars and as an Encore Fellow in the Mayor's Office in San José, CA. He holds a BA from Williams College and a Masters Degree from Harvard University.

“Spend just forty-five seconds at our Center on any weekday afternoon, and you’ll be blown away by the positive energy of teenagers deeply engaged with each other and their teachers. How so? It’s a safe place - emotionally and academically - allowing them to grow into the persons they are meant to be.”

Johny Ek, a Marin County, CA native, holds a B.A. in Economics from Pomona College. He currently serves as an investment associate at Architect Capital, specializing in deal sourcing, investment analysis, and data analytics for portfolio and risk management. Previously, at BlackRock, he focused on data analytics, reporting, and investment strategies for institutional clients. Committed to making a positive impact, Johny strives to help others in any way possible within his professional journey. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Pomona College.

“A manager from one of my college jobs at Pomona really mentored me and provided a guide forward to a career in finance.”

Parth joins the Young Leaders Board as a proud alumnus of NGS after being raised in San Rafael. His desire to remain involved stems from his experience navigating the Marin County public school system as a first-generation student. It wasn't until joining NGS as a student that he learned how to speak truth to power and try to uplift those around him. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from Pitzer College and works at Apple Inc. as a Software Engineer. He is passionate about building technology that makes the classroom more equitable. In his spare time, he enjoys playing tennis, biking, and exploring nature whenever possible.

"As an NGS product myself, I feel inspired to open the same doors for students that were opened for me. I look forward to remaining involved with NGS through the Young Leaders Board and advancing NGS' efforts to uplift student voices."

Yoel Iskindir is a Bay Area native with Marin County roots. Being raised by his family of refugees and with the experience of not fitting in, Iskindir was motivated to create social change through media. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Cinema at San Francisco State University. Iskindir spent many years working in education in a variety of non-profits, and in media, where he wore multiple hats, including writing, directing, and producing. After a couple of years in New York City, Iskindir joined San Domenico to bridge his experiences working with students with his production background. His aim was to establish a media program that would equip students with both technical skills and a global perspective. With expertise spanning media production, education, and media education, Yoel brings a dedicated focus on social justice and community uplift to every space he enters. In a society where many of us exist as the "other," his aspiration as a filmmaker is to craft thought-provoking, challenging works that provide a platform to explore our world on screen.

“I remember meeting a mentor and friend in college who helped me navigate the digital media department, really inspired my career and pathway forward.”