Board of Directors
Vision
Our board members set the vision for our programs and bring their passion for real impact to every decision.
Board Members in the Community
Our board members are eager to get involved in initiatives however they can.
Mr. Avery loves nothing more than to mentor youth and get them fired up about their futures.
Dr. Esqueda and Mr. Lopez inspired hundreds of youth at San Ysidro High School when they shared their personal journeys as first generation college students.
Meet Our Board of Directors
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Monica Esqueda, Ph.D.
Inaugural Equity Advisor, UC Office of Undergraduate Education
Dr. Esqueda brings her personal perspectives as a first generation college student and her professional background supporting pathways to success for first generation college students in student affairs, undergraduate admissions, and college access programs.
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Tyler Lopez, Esq.
Associate Attorney,
Hanna BrophyMr. Lopez shares his insights as the first in his family to graduate from college and law school. He provides great mentorship and career advice to Teens Rise college scholarship recipients.
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William Avery, B.S.
CEO,
Avery VenturesMr. Avery brings his background in Business Administration and Finance to ensure programs inspire students’ entrepreneurial spirits and support their development of skills needed for business success.
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Gaby Millan, M.B.A
Executive Director,
Teens Rise FoundationMs. Millan brings her personal experiences as a first generation college student to drive her passion to bring grassroots leadership and access to resources to underserved communities.
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Linda Strause, Ph.D.
Principal & Founder,
Strategic Clinical ConsultantsDr. Strause brings over 30 years of experience in global clinical operations and development, with a focus on oncology, critical care, and ethical research involving life-threatening conditions. Dr. Strause has a strong commitment to STEM education and mentorship, particularly for young women entering the life sciences field. She has served in leadership with Women in Bio and continues to mentor emerging professionals through advisory roles.