Cohort 12 | Class of 2028

Blanca Moncada

Hometown: Manteca, CA
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science | Ethnic Studies & Psychology | Santa Clara University
Graduate: Master of Arts | Higher Education and Student Affairs | University of San Francisco
Research Interests:My research interest is understanding, centering, and uplifting the experiences of Central American, South American, and Caribbean Latiné identifying students with a focus on sense of belonging and identity formation at public Hispanic Serving Institutions.

Carlos Magallanez Jr.

Hometown: Gilroy, California
Undergraduate: B.A. | Collaborative Health and Human Services | Cal State Monterey Bay
Graduate: MSW | Social Work | Cal State Monterey Bay
Research interests: Identify and cultivate areas that enhance student life experiences by addressing individual needs, to effectively consider specific preferences and capabilities, thereby fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Personal interests: Exercising, self improvement, family and friends.

Carol-Lynn Perez

Undergraduate: Communication Studies, San Jose State University
Graduate: Communication Studies, San Jose State University
Research interests: My research interests include exploring how Artificial Intelligence technologies can address educational and structural inequalities, how instructors can help students utilize these resources, and how best to prepare students to be well-balanced and productive members of society. After spending 20 years in the classroom, I have observed firsthand how AI has changed the landscape of higher education which deserves further exploration.
Personal interests: Traveling, weightlifting, hiking, gardening, pottery, metalsmithing, painting, reading, spending time with family and friends, and trying to be the best possible aunt I can be.

Chris Chavez

Hometown: Saratoga, CA
Undergraduate: BA in History at the University of Michigan
Graduate: MS in Higher Education from Drexel University
Research interests: My intended area of research is in Academic/Success Coaching as it is a relatively new field and there is not much dedicated research on it at this time. Success Coaching is about meeting students where they are at, and helping them develop the executive function and study skills needed to help them succeed in their academic career and beyond. I am passionate about this work as not all students come from the same backgrounds and may not have been able to develop these skills, Success Coaching serves an important purpose of making learning equitable by helping students not only develop important skills, but to build confidence and self-agency that will serve them well past their academic careers.
Personal interests: Working out by going to gym, lifting weights, and running. I also enjoy watching sports (U of M, 49ers, Sharks, Warriors, Giants, F1)

Crystal Murguia

Hometown: Los Angeles, Ca
Undergraduate: Sociology and Ethnic Studies, University of La Verne
Graduate: College Counseling and Student Development, Azusa Pacific University
Research interests: First-Generation College Students, Limited-Income College Students, Pell Eligible FGLI Students, Students on Academic Notice in rekation to FGLI, and male identity development in relation to FGLI and students of color.
Personal interests: Hiking, Audio books, podcast, hanging out with my stepdaughter and family, camping, and traveling

Cynyhai Huang

Hometown: Sunnyvale, California
Undergraduate: BA in Adult Edcation, East Bay University
Graduate: MS in Online Teaching and Learning, East Bay University University
Research interests: Neurodiversity in Teachers and School Staff, Social Emotional Learning for Students and Adults, Leadership
Personal interests: Cooking, Music, and Gardening

Dacia Cassara Connell

Hometown: Newport Beach, CA
Undergraduate: BA, Psychology, Vanguard University
Graduate: MS, Educational Counseling, National University
Research interests: Learner centered leadership and the integration of AI
Personal interests: Cooking, travel

Daisy Meza

Hometown: Salinas, California
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts in Collaborative Health and Human Services from California State University of Monterey Bay
Graduate: Master of Arts in Education from California State University of Monterey Bay
Research interests: My research interests include multilingual learners, first-generation students, bilingual education programs, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Personal interests: I love spending time with my family! I enjoy exploring new places through travel.

David Poirier

Hometown: Mountain View, CA
Undergraduate: Business: Human Resources | San Jose State University
Graduate: Masters of Business Administration| San Jose State University
Research interests: Mentorship in Education, Applications of Workforce Training in Academia, and Leadership Development
Personal interests: Creative writing, fitness/outdoors, collecting medieval weapons, history, and restaurant exploration

Dulce Carmona

Hometown: Salinas, CA
Undergraduate: BA, Liberal Studies | California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB)
Graduate: MA, Education, Educational Administration | California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB)
Research interests: My research interests align with my leadership goals and center on the role of school leaders in supporting high-quality instruction, advancing equity, and sustaining effective school improvement practices. I aim to explore how principals use coaching, collaboration, and data-driven reflection to support teacher effectiveness and student learning. I am particularly interested in how assessment and program evaluation can be used to inform instructional decisions, evaluate the impact of equity initiatives, and guide resource allocation to ensure that all students thrive. I also plan to investigate how school leaders build systems that foster a strong sense of belonging for all stakeholders students, families, and staff alike. My vision of leadership includes strong communication and interpersonal skills, deep educational expertise, and the ability to solve complex problems while managing people, programs, and resources effectively. I am deeply committed to student success and staff support, and I view leadership as an opportunity to inspire, empower, and serve. Through the Ed.D. program at San José State University, I hope to deepen my understanding of research-based leadership practices, engage in meaningful inquiry, and contribute to shaping more equitable and responsive school systems.
Personal interests: Outside of my professional work, I enjoy reading, traveling, and exploring new cultures, which enrich my perspective as an educator and leader. I am passionate about community engagement and mentorship, especially supporting first-generation college students and emerging educators. Spending quality time with my family is a priority for me, and I find inspiration in collaborative learning environments where ideas and experiences are shared. I also enjoy attending educational conferences and workshops to continuously grow as a leader and advocate for equitable education.

Edith Passi

Hometown: Nu’uuli, American Samoa
Undergraduate: Business Management - Azusa Pacific University
Graduate: Organizational Leadership - Los Angeles Pacific University
Research interests: Educational equity with a specific focus on Polynesians in higher education.
Personal interests: Anything that is family centered.

Erica Rich

Hometown: Newark, California
Undergraduate: Bachelors in Liberal Studies (Elementary Education), California State University, Sacramento
Graduate: Master's in Education: Curriculum, California State University, East Bay
Research interests: supporting diverse elementary learners and elementary teachers in public school

Erika Alvarez

Hometown: Bakersfield, CA
Undergraduate: B.S. | Environmental Resource Management | CSU Bakersfield
Graduate: M.A. | Counseling and Guidance | SJSU
Research interests: Professional Preparation of Academic Advisors, Adapting High-Impact Practices for Non-Traditional Students, Early Intervention Strategies Guided by Predictive Analytics, Student-Centered Policy and Program Development
Personal interests: Hiking, watching sports, and going to the cinema!

Gauri Sehgal

Hometown: Bay Area, California
Undergraduate: Psychology with a Biological Emphasis I Bachelors of Science I University of California, Davis
Graduate: Masters of Arts I Education I University of California, Davis
Research interests: Supportive Classroom Experiences for Students and Educators
Personal interests: Exercise, Fashion, Cooking, and Baking

Guillermo Metelin Bock

Hometown: Salinas, CA
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts | Psychology | California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB)
Graduate: Master of Arts | Education, School Psychology | Alliant International University
Research interests: My research interests focus on how institutions can design and implement comprehensive support systems for first-generation, low-income, undocumented, and underrepresented students. I am particularly interested in the role of college support programs such as Dream Centers, TRIO programs, cultural centers, and other equity-driven initiatives in promoting student engagement, persistence, and post-graduate success. I also explore how institutions can build sustainable infrastructure to respond to the needs of students navigating systemic barriers, including those related to immigration, financial insecurity, and educational access. My goal is to contribute to institutional practices that foster inclusive, affirming, and student-centered environments.
Personal interests: I love spending time with my wife and two daughters, especially on trips to Mexico, where we reconnect with our heritage in places like Tamaulipas and Guanajuato. These visits deepen my understanding of Mexican history and culture, particularly my interest in the Mayan ruins, such as Chichen Itza and the Temple of Kukulcán. I’ve also explored cities like Cancún, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, Tulum, and San Miguel de Allende, and enjoy visiting cenotes. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for mariachi music, which has always been a part of the celebrations and traditions I cherish. These travels have enriched my personal life and reinforced my commitment to preserving cultural identity and fostering community, which are central to my academic work. I see a strong connection between my experiences and my academic research, especially in understanding how cultural heritage impacts the academic success and well-being of marginalized students. My love for banda music, charrería, and jaripeos, key elements of Mexican tradition, reminds me of the importance of celebrating students' cultural identities and creating inclusive, affirming environments in higher education. In addition to our cultural experiences, I am passionate about weightlifting and maintaining an active lifestyle. I also enjoy making carne asada for my family, as food has always been an important part of our culture. These activities help me stay grounded and connected to my roots, while balancing both physical well-being and the traditions that shape my life.

Haydee Morfin

Hometown: Gilroy, CA
Undergraduate: Family and Consumer Sciences with Child Development, Long Beach State California
Graduate: Early Childhood Special Education, San Francisco State University
Research interests: Advocating for Special Education (SPED) students because they often don’t get the resources and support they need. SPED programs are underfunded and sometimes overlooked, which means teachers are overwhelmed, students don’t always get the right accommodations, and important tools like assistive technology or therapy services can be limited.
Personal interests: Traveling, trying new foods, hanging out with friends and family, or attempting at a new DIY project.

Heather Bonvechio

Hometown: Mountain View, CA
Undergraduate: Exercise Science & Sports Medicine | California Lutheran University
Graduate: MS Special Education & Education Specialist Teaching Credential | National University
Research interests: Bridging the gap between administrators and staff, working relationships between administrators and special education staff and students
Personal interests: Hanging out with my husband and our 5 year old daughter, working out, learning about women’s health as we age, and DIY projects.

Hong Ha Hoang

Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Undergraduate: Bachelors of Science in Neurobiology & Psychology with Minors in Bioethics & Humanities | University of Washington, Seattle
Graduate: Master in Education with an Early Completion Single Subject Credential - Mathematics | Alliant International University
Research interests: My research interests focus on addressing educational inequities in K-12 systems, especially how district decisions like school closures impact marginalized communities. I'm also interested in improving communication across education systems to strengthen connections between schools, families, and communities, promoting student success.
Personal interests: My personal interests include traveling, escape rooms, cooking and baking (especially Asian food), spending time with my dog Baylee, and engaging in fitness activities like running. I also enjoy movies, board games, and building meaningful connections with others. I'm passionate about learning, community involvement, and exploring different cultures.

Ileana Romero

Hometown: San Diego, CA
Undergraduate: B.A. Geography, UCSB
Graduate: M.Ed Emphasis in Special Education, Cal Poly Pomona
Research interests: Professional Development for teachers of students with characteristics of ADHD and co-teaching models in math.
Personal interests: Walking in nature, biking, and kayaking.

Isabel Rangel Hernandez

Hometown: San Jose, Ca
Undergraduate: Child and Adolescent Development, Preparation into Teaching, San Jose State University
Graduate: Higher Education LeadershipMaster's Program (HELM), San Jose State University
Research interests: Undocumented Students pursuing K-12 Education and Higher Education in California, First-Generation College Students, Latina Student-Parents (Scholar-Mami), UndocuCrit, LatCrit, Chicana Feminist Epistemology, Testimonios, Community Cultural Wealth, Racist Nativism.
Personal interests: I love my son, my cat, and my dog. I enjoy a variety of music, food, and shopping. I like reading Webtoons and watching Anime like Naruto, Apothecary Diaries, and Demon Slayer. My goal is to continue to collect all the Pokémon Games, as I have all of the games beginning with the GameBoy and I a currently up to date with any present games.

Janelle-Victoria Cabanero

Hometown: Daly City, California
Undergraduate: Kinesiology
Graduate: Special Education
Research interests: My research interests focus on student self-advocacy and voice within Individualized Education Program (IEP) processes, particularly for middle school students with disabilities. I am especially interested in understanding the barriers students face when trying to advocate for themselves and in developing strategies that promote autonomy, inclusion, and equitable participation in educational decision-making. Additionally, I am interested in how policy and funding structures (such as LCFF and AB 602) shape opportunities for students with disabilities, and how teacher leadership and equity-centered practices can create more inclusive learning environments.
Personal interests: Outside of my professional work, I enjoy traveling and experiencing new places, cultures, and foods. I also love creative planning and design—whether that’s building boho-inspired lesson materials in Canva or organizing interactive classroom activities. In my free time, I like exploring skincare and wellness routines, solving puzzles, and spending time with my dog.

Jazmin Chilin

Hometown : Gilroy, CA
Undergraduate: Undergraduate degree: English, BA San José State University
Graduate: MA, Teaching, San José State University
Research interests: I am especially interested in conducting research that combats apathetic approaches multilingual students often express in school.
Personal interests: My personal interests stem from my love of God and my neighbor. I find rest in my quiet time as well as my physical care. I enjoy pilates, quality time with my husband, cooking classes, and finding ways to make my classroom a more enjoyable experience for the community.

Jeremiah Lineberger

Hometown: Chino Hills, CA
Undergraduate: Communication Studies| San Jose State University
Graduate: M.S. Mass Communications| San Jose State University
Research interests: I am interested in expanding my master’s project, which focuses on the impact of the San Jose State Black Alumni Network. My research aims to explore how increased alumni engagement can enhance support for undergraduate students, including scholarship opportunities, mentorship, networking, and career development. By strengthening alumni connections, I hope to assess the network’s role in fostering student success and long-term professional growth.
Personal interests: Running different 10k's/Half Marathons, Attending Community Events, and Spending time with family and close friends

Joanna Messer

Hometown: Soquel, CA
Undergraduate: B.M. | Music Performance | Lawrence University
Graduate: M.M. | Music Performance | Carnegie Mellon University ; MLIS | Library & Information Studies | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Research interests: - Textbook affordability and impact of low- and zero-cost instructional material availability on student success and completion and broader institutional effectiveness - Person-centered management practices and their application in the academic setting - Staff development and training, especially focused on retention and professional development for non-MLIS holders among library staff - Inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and anti-racist representation in library collections and spaces
Personal interests: Playing and hosting trivia games Playing flute in my community orchestra Cooking complex meals Advocacy work with area LGBTQ+ organizations

Joel Morales

Hometown: Bakersfield, CA
Undergraduate: B.A. | Psychology | UC Santa Cruz
Graduate: M.S. | Counseling | CSU Bakersfield
Research interests: Leadership Pathways for Professionals in Higher Education, Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Training and Development, Higher Education Leadership, Equity and Retention Strategies for Historically Underserved Students

Juan Ledesma

Hometown: Salinas, California
Undergraduate: Applied Physics B.S., UC Santa Cruz
Graduate: Educational Administration MeD, Grand Canyon University
Research interests: My research interests center on advancing equity and student success in STEM education, supporting emergent multilingual learners, and promoting culturally responsive leadership. With a background in mathematics instruction and applied physics, I am passionate about integrating innovative technologies like AI and data science to make mathematics more accessible and engaging. I am also committed to exploring how culturally sustaining leadership practices can address systemic barriers faced by Chicano, Latino, and underrepresented students, drawing from my own experiences growing up and working in Salinas, CA. Additionally, I aim to investigate how professional development and school-university partnerships can better prepare educators to meet the needs of diverse, multilingual student populations.
Personal interests: My personal interests are wanting education to be a tool for empowerment and not for exclusion, I love sports: baseball, football and soccer mainly, love spending time with my family, 2 kids, my 7 year old daughter and 4 year old son and my wife who is a math teacher. I am also interested in movies, big movie person. Furthermore I am interested in traveling and learning about cultures.

Kanika Sood

Hometown: Punjab, India and the bay area!
Undergraduate: A.A. in Communication Studies from De Anza College and B.A. in Psychology from UC Riverside
Graduate: M.Ed in Educational Counseling from University of Southern California
Research interests: My primary focus is on researching the ways in which we can support neurodivergent South Asian students (ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism spectrum, mental health and other learning/processing impacts) that are disabled by the current academic and social systems. • Create universally designed classrooms that encourage every student's success • Belief that education of neurodivergent students should be rooted in conscious integration versus ableist separatism • Community-based research that centers the goals of the people being researched versus my research goals, although I use my own disabled and intersecting experiences as a lens. • Mixed-race identities and disability intersections • Sense of belonging for students with disabilities • Career choice oppression for South Asian students
Personal interests: Cooking and trying new food, spending time in nature, reading, watching new movies and exploring cities with friends

Kelsey Nyberg

Hometown: Manteca, California
Undergraduate: Bachelors/Liberal Studies/California State University Stanislaus
Graduate: Masters/Education Administration/ California State University Stanislaus
Research interests: Closing the achievement gap with minority and low-income students.
Personal interests: Thrifting, cooking, being outdoors and going on adventures.

Kimberly Gallow

Hometown: Lafayette, Louisiana
Undergraduate: BS | Business Administration | Northwestern State University
Graduate: MA | Student Affairs in Higher Education | Northwestern State University
Research interests: Black Feminism, Organziational Behavior, College Athletic Administration & Leadership
Personal interests: I enjoy visiting with family, attending sporting events, church, docuseries, networking, and personal development.

Kimberly McCullick

Hometown: Salinas, CA
Undergraduate: BA in Liberal Studies from CSUMB
Graduate: MA in Education (Administration and Supervision) SJSU
Research interests: Some of the areas I am interested in researching for the Doctoral program include strategies that support Long Term English Learners (LTELs), particularly in the content area of mathematics. LTELs often face unique challenges, such as gaps in foundational language development and limited access to rigorous, grade-level content. My goal is to explore instructional strategies and systemic supports that can improve academic outcomes for LTELs in math, an area that traditionally presents significant linguistic and conceptual demands. This research would allow me to combine my passion for supporting multilingual learners with my love of teaching mathematics. Another area I am eager to explore is how to better support new principals at the school site. Today’s school leaders face numerous challenges, and I am interested in researching effective strategies and systems that can enhance principal preparedness, efficacy, and job satisfaction. I would hope to identify approaches that contribute to increased retention of school leaders, which is essential for maintaining stability and fostering sustained school improvement.
Personal interests: Some of my personal interests are reading, hiking or backpacking with my family, running half marathons, and completing triathlons with my husband

Kira Lemons

Hometown: San Jose, CA
Undergraduate: BA | English | University of Mary Washington
Graduate: MA | International Education Management | Middlebury Institute (and) MA | Higher Education Leadership | SJSU
Research interests: Increasing access to intercultural experiences for undergraduate students
Personal interests: Dungeons & Dragons, Cosplay, Cinema

Kristine Vasquez

Hometown: Salinas, CA
Undergraduate: B.A., Liberal Studies, Fresno State University
Graduate: M.A., Educational Leadership, San Jose State University
Research interests: The impact of teacher training on student learning.
Personal interests: I love traveling, spending quality time with my family, and relaxing on a beach.

Lindsay Devaurs

Hometown: Bakersfield, Ca
Undergraduate: BS, Agriculture Science, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Graduate: MS, Agriculture,m Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Research interests: Agriculture teacher retention and burnout, particulary female identifying ag teachers
Personal interests: Horses, dahlias, roses, ducks, and travel

Mathew Stowe

Hometown: Sacramento, CA
Undergraduate: BA in Sociology - Social Interaction, San Jose State University
Graduate: MA in Educational Counseling, San Jose State University
Research interests: First generation college students, College readiness, Impacts of mentorship & advising, Global education models, Higher education, STEM student success
Personal interests: Running, Music, Family, Faith & Art

Melinee Stewart

Hometown: Richmond, CA
Undergraduate: Bachelors of Science, Health Science Cal State, East Bay
Graduate: Masters in Education, Teacher Leadership, Dominican University
Research interests: I am interested in Adverse Childhood Experiences and Events (ACEs) and how they affect African American student's behavior in the classroom and their academic progress.
Personal interests: I enjoy personal self-care through traveling and working out. I enjoy eating out with friends and being a parent of a teenager.

Mike "Spike" Osorio

Hometown: Los Angeles CA
Undergraduate: Film & Digital Media , UC Santa Cruz
Graduate: Public Administration, Cal State East Bay
Research interests: First Generation/ Low income students and professionals, LGBTQIA, 2nd generation families, educational equity, Imposter syndrome, Generational trauma, Community College students,
Personal interests: Working out, Punk/Emo & Trance Music, Rollercoasters enthusiast, Paddle Boarding and Animals

Mileidy Maldonado

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Undergraduate: BA in Sociology - University of California, Riverside
Graduate: MA in Sociology - California State University, Northridge
Research interests: My research interest centers on the educational trauma experienced by first-generation Latino/a/x students throughout their academic journeys. I am particularly interested in researching the various systemic barriers that individuals encounter within educational institutions. Additionally, I am interested in academic burnout and the lived experiences of Latino/a/x parenthood in academia. I am also interested in exploring the significance of creating a community of care within educational spaces, with a focus on the role of healing in promoting thriving and successful outcomes for students.
Personal interests: I enjoy taking pictures of nature, hiking, spending time with my children, traveling, painting, dancing, and listening to podcasts.

Nayelli Velazquez

Hometown: Salinas,Ca
Undergraduate: Bachelors in Early Childhood Education/ Fresno Pacific University
Graduate: Masters in School Counseling/Fresno Pacific University
Research interests: Equality in when it comes to student behaviors
Personal interests: Hanging out with my family

Nicole Armstrong

Hometown: Moreno Valley, CA
Undergraduate : BS Business Administration, CSU, East Bay
Graduate : MS in SPECIAL EDUCATION, MA in STEM Education
Research interests: 1. Equity and Access in Special Education – Research systemic barriers that affect students with disabilities and propose solutions to create a more inclusive and accessible education system, 2 Bridge the Gap Between Policy and Practice – Analyze existing special education policies and propose actionable recommendations for improving their implementation in real-world classroom settings., 3 Enhance Inclusive Education Practices – Investigate and develop effective strategies to support diverse learning needs, ensuring equitable access to education for students with disabilities.
Personal interests: Beyond my passion for education and commitment to inclusive learning, I find joy in spending quality time with my family. Traveling allows me to explore new cultures and perspectives, while cooking is a creative outlet that brings people together. I also love watching exciting movies, getting lost in a good book, and expressing myself through painting. One of my favorite pastimes is playing LEGO with my son, fostering both creativity and connection. And, of course, my little Yorkie keeps me on my toes, always ready for a game of chase. These personal joys enrich my life and keep me balanced as I pursue my professional and academic goals.

Olivia Hayes

Hometown: Dinuba, California
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts in Mass Media Communications & Journalism, Fresno State University
Graduate: Master of Science in Higher Education Counseling & Student Affairs, Cal Polytechnic State University
Research interests: Bi-racial/multiracial first year experience/identity development. The Role of Personality Typologies in Shaping Leadership Styles.
Personal interests: My personal interests include singing, dancing, theatre, swimming, and cooking

Rachel Meyers

Hometown: Salinas, CA
Undergraduate: BA Education, CSU Monterey Bay
Graduate: M.A. Education, UC Santa Cruz
Research interests: quality instruction, personalized learning, private education
Personal interests: family, running, true crime

Raina Benton

Hometown: San Francisco CA
Undergraduate: Child and Adolescent Development
Graduate: Social Justice & Urban Education
Research interests: The school-to-prison pipeline, Healing-centered engagement,Culturally relevant and sustaining pedagogy, Discrimination in schools, and teacher diversity and retention,
Personal interests: Writing, Reading, Movies and Music,

Robert Cannon

Hometown: Salinas, CA
Undergraduate: BA Economics The College of William and Mary
Graduate: MA Educational Leadership SJSU
Research interests: I am interested in how California public school districts use the continuous improvement process embedded in the LCAP process to improve outcomes for all student groups.
Personal interests: I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, keeping up with current events, and learning new things.

Sarah Cravy

Hometown: Milpitas, CA
Undergraduate: Bachelors of Architecture, University of Houston
Graduate: Masters of Business Administration, Golden Gate University
Research interests: Teaching and learning for the field of architecture
Personal interests: Art, craft, and reading

Selwan Amari

Hometown: Fremont, California
Undergraduate: BA in Sociology, University of California, Berkeley
Graduate: MA in English & Comparative Literature, San Jose State University
Research interests: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; the representation of underrepresented communities in higher education; and how educational leadership, teaching, mentoring, and counseling practices can create empowering environments that foster student success.
Personal interests: Immersing in the aromas of coffee, the rhythms of Arabic music, and the depths of Arabic and English literature, along with verses of poetry.

Shailendra Baghel

Hometown: Fremont, CA
Undergraduate: Bachelors in Business & Finance, Bhopal University
Graduate: MBA Accounting & Finance, Iowa University and Masters in Accounting & Taxation from Indore University and JD from Indore University and DCA from Bhopal University and Certified Public Accountant USA and Fellow Chartered Accountant India
Research interests: Strategic use of AI in Higher Education Management & Leadership, Strategic use of AI for Higher Education learning and outcomes for underserved communities, Creative and innovative learning methodologies beyond conservative approach
Personal interests: Flying, Playing cricket and Golf, Cooking

Shruthi Nadig

Hometown: Bengaluru - Silicon Valley of India
Undergraduate: BBM | Finance | Bangalore University
Graduate: MPA | Public Policy & Org. Development | University of New Mexico
Research interests: Impact of Professional Development Programs in Higher Education | Effectiveness of Peer Mentoring Programs in Faculty and Staff at CCD's
Personal interests: Hiking, Traveling, Singing, and spending time with loved ones.

Steve Duong

Hometown: East Side San Jose, CA
Undergraduate: B. A. in Sociology, San Jose State University
Graduate: M. A. in Higher Education Leadership, San Jose State
Research interests: Impact of higher education for incarcerated, formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students, non-traditional & underserved community college students and Caring Campus (student sense of belonging).
Personal interests: Making new memories with my two amazing kids, working out at the gym, huge Los Angeles Lakers/Kobe Bryant fan (Mamba Forever), sneaker enthusiast and being the best version of myself every day.

Sujana Mukund

Hometown: San Jose, CA
Undergraduate: B.E., Electronics Engineering, Bangalore University
Graduate: MA|Education | San Jose State University
Research interests: School Safety, Mental Health of students and educators
Personal interests: Painting, Mosaics, reading, hiking

Tina Raeder van Stirum

Hometown: Salinas, Ca
Undergraduate: Women's Studies and Community Studies, UCSC
Graduate: MS Science Education, MSU Bozeman
Research interests: I am interested in understanding how to create wraparound supports for new teachers through equity-focused onboarding practices that address both procedural systems and relationship-based supports, particularly in high-need schools.
Personal interests: I enjoy gardening, dabbling in crafting and playing TTRPG.

VanNessa Hulme Silbermann

Name: VanNessa Hulme Silbermann
Hometown: Kansas City, MO/Los Angeles, CA
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Music, Voice Performance, Grand Canyon University
Graduate: Master of Music, Opera Performance, California State University, Northridge
Research interests: The Arts as a gateway to interdisciplinary learning, Training the next generation of innovative arts educators, Rethinking social-emotional programs for all (they aren't just for students!), Access and equity in private school education
Personal interests: Animal rescue and rights for special needs animals, Watching and learning from independent films/documentaries, Playing softball, Sustainable gardening, Meditation, Exploring cultures through food, and Coffee in any form

Victoria Veles Aguirre

Hometown: San Jose, CA
Undergraduate: BA | Liberal Studies | Patten University
Graduate: MA | Education: Curriculum & Instructional Design | SJSU
Research interests: My research interests are focused on teacher retention, equity-driven sustainability practices, and their impact on student outcomes and instructional quality.
Personal interests: My personal interests include music, sports, wellness, and family history & cultural identity

Xiomara Martinez

Hometown: San José, CA
Undergraduate: B.A., Community Psychology , Palo Alto University
Graduate: M.A., Higher Education Leadership, San José State University
Research interests: Latinx Support Programs, First-Year Experience Programs