ABOUT US
BOOST Conference Leadership Team
The BOOST Leadership Team is critically important to the success and impact of the BOOST Conference. This amazing team has over 674 years of combined experience in the field and provides big ideas, new connections, and practical strategies while adding credibility to the planning and implementation process. This comprehensive Leadership Team represents the diversity of after school, expanded learning, and in and out-of-school time programs and includes representatives serving at all levels of the field. We are a high-quality conference truly planned by dedicated (and fun) educators, adding voice and value to the needs of the field.
Carmen Alvarez-Esparza, Training Coordinator (she/her/hers) 
arc Experience, Torrance, CA
With over 10 years of experience in training, compliance, and educational program development, I’ve worked across a variety of roles supporting teams, building systems, and leading professional learning. I’m passionate about creating inclusive, engaging spaces where people can grow and thrive.
Evelyn Barraza, Regional Partnership Manager (she/her/hers)
Playworks SoCal Region, Pico Rivera, CA
Evelyn Barraza is a Regional Partnership Manager at Playworks. Her journey began in 2015 as an AmeriCorps member in Santa Ana. Evelyn has cultivated strong, lasting relationships with school districts and principals across Southern California to create safe and inclusive play environments for students. Evelyn is a natural leader, people manager, and strategic thinker. Her approach is rooted in empathy, adaptability, and a commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision-making process. She is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for youth.
Top 5 Strengths: Strategic | Ideation | Learner | Individualization | Self-assurance
Top 5 Character Strengths: Honesty | Gratitude | Fairness | Kindness | Humor
Shanyce Blossom, Youth Ministry Director (she/her/hers)
16th Street SDA Church, San Bernardino, CA
I have been working with children and youth since I was a teenager. I started working with children on the West side of San Bernardino where many young people are not offered much in opportunities and growth. In working in this environment it has become a passion to help young people see how much the world has to offer and all they can achieve with hard work and dedication. I am the director of a youth program at 16th Street SDA Church. I help youth to grow, learn, and build dreams and goals beyond the limits they see around them. My life is dedicated to helping young people feel empowered!
Top 5 Strengths: Relator | Learner | Analytical | Responsibility | Focus
Top 5 Character Strengths: Fairness | Honesty | Kindness | Gratitude | Judgement
Alyson Bryant, Program Director (she/her/hers)
YMCA of Greater Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
Alyson Bryant was raised in Long Beach. Alyson has learned and seen a lot witnessing first-hand gang violence and the effects it had on her friends and fellow classmates– from going to jail to being killed. As a result, she has a strong passion for at-risk youth and her community. She started her work with youth as a Youth Mentor for at the California Conference for Equality and Justice and focuses her work on Long Beach youth in schools and detention centers. Alyson than began her Y career in 2013. She quickly expanded her role with the Y she continues to advocate for urban youth with her mission to Motivate, Inspire, and Empower!
Top 5 Strengths: Relator | Competition | Positivity | Significance | Activator
Top 5 Character Strengths: Kindness | Love | Spirituality | Gratitude | Hope
Kristen Gonzalez, Program Manager (she/her/hers)
Harmonium, San Diego, CA
Kristen has been in the expanded learning field for over 25 years, what started as a summer job has turned into a passion and career. Her career started at the Boys and Girls Club of Escondido and took her to the YMCA of San Diego County, then to various agencies around San Diego County, and now a Program Director with Harmonium. Kristen has a wide knowledge of licensed programs, ASES program, and 21st Century programs but her true passion is the professional development of expanded learning staff. She is a CalSAC trainer and holds a BA in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University.
Top 5 Strengths: Connectedness | Belief | Developer | Activator | Restorative
Top 5 Character Strengths: Humor | Kindness | Love | Gratitude | Fairness
Tia Gregory, Before/After School Program Director (she/her/hers)
Tia is a proud daughter of a veteran and has lived all over the US which allowed her to be exposed to many cities but throughout all of those she chose to see the best of every situation and it's made her a very resilient human being. She's worked with kiddos basically her whole life and it's always been a passion for her. Recently she's taken on the role of Before/After School Program director with the hopes of creating a program where all students feel safe and want to come every day! She feels she's well on her way based on feedback from staff and families but strives to make her program better and better for the kiddos.
Justin Griffin, Owner (he/him/his)Justin is a Captain, Leader, Mentor, and Coach who loves basketball and life. He has played in the pros for 10+ years and now is the owner of Pure Joy Enrichment, Inc. Coach Justin graduated with a B.S in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from the University of Hawaii, Hilo, and was named Male Athlete of the Year and Big Island Athlete of the Year. His professional career includes playing in Germany, Romania, Puerto Rico, and Mexico where he finished his career with Soles de Mexicali as Captain and League Champions.
Top 5 Strengths: Belief | Responsibility | Learner | Positivity | Developer
Top 5 Character Strengths: Honesty | Gratitude | Fairness | Humor | Love of Learning
Tyler Hodgson, Director of Programs (she/her/hers)
Outside The Lens, San Diego, CA
Tyler was born and raised in San Francisco, CA, and holds a BA in Sociology and an MEd. She taught high school for 10+ years in Chicago and Seattle, leading social-emotional learning and restorative justice practices. Now a youth development leader driving creative media arts programs, she builds strategic partnerships, manages teams, serves on San Diego Unified School District’s VAPA Advisory Council, and creates lasting impact for young people. She focuses on breaking down silos to develop collaborative, equity-centered programming that fosters belonging and empowers youth to thrive, always centering youth voice and community needs.
Top 5 Strengths: Individualization | Woo | Input | Positivity | Includer
Top 5 Character Strengths: Love | Love of Learning | Curiosity | Social Intelligence | Kindness
Dana Lingard, Director of Field Marketing (she/her/hers)Dana Lingard is from San Diego, CA, and possesses more than 20 years of experience in marketing and event planning. Currently serving as the Director of Field Marketing for Elevo, she is dedicated to engaging students, exciting parents, and supporting educators through diverse in-school and out-of-school programs. In her spare time, Dana is actively involved in volunteer work on the board of youth football and rugby organizations. She also enjoys reading, traveling, and cherishing moments with her two sons and husband.
Virginia "Ginny" Mebane, Teacher Specialist - Expanded Learning Programs (she/her/hers)
TLC Expanded Learning, Pomona Unified, Pomona, CA
Virginia grew up in Inglewood, California, and has worked in out-of-school programs and education for over 35 years. She started working with youth at the age of 14 as a summer youth leader at Centinela Day Camp. Virginia has had great mentors including her mom, who inspired her to serve youth in her community. While raising a family and working part-time, Virginia earned a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Bachelor’s degree from the University of La Verne. After teaching for 10 years, she followed her heart and returned to expanded learning programs. Currently, she supports 26 after school program sites within the Pomona Unified School District.
Fallon Mitchell, Grant Coordinator - CCSPP (she/her/hers)
Knisha “Knash” Nash, Director of Program Training & Development (she/her/hers)
Think Together, Riverside, CA
Knisha Nash is the Director of Program Training & Development at Think Together, bringing 18+ years of experience in expanded learning. Her expertise includes program implementation, staff training, and student engagement across all grade levels. She started as a Site Coordinator and has held impactful roles, including Director of Program Operations and Learning and Development Manager/Lead. Knisha holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Sociology and a minor in Education from UC Riverside. With a background in competitive cheer and dance, she brings energy, creativity, and passion for building joyful, engaging environments.
Top 5 Strengths: Discipline | Activator | Responsibility | Command | Communication
Top 5 Character Strengths: Honesty | Love of Learning | Leadership | Fairness | Teamwork
LynnMarie Perez, Expanded Learning Program Supervisor (she/her/hers) LynnMarie has worked in the expanded learning field for over 25 years. She grew up in the Placentia-Yorba Linda USD and attended the before/after school program as a child. She has been part of the PYLUSD Expanded Learning Department for 20 years. She is a passionate individual who loves to explore new opportunities and learn new things and is dedicated to making a positive impact and helping others in any way she can. In her free time, she enjoys working with Girl Scouts, traveling, reading, hiking, and spending time with family & friends. LynnMarie believes that life is an adventure, and is always excited to see where it takes her next.
Becky Shultz, Retired (she/her/hers)
Whittier, CA
Becky Shultz has recently retired with over 23 years of experience in the out-of-school-time field. She obtained a Master's degree in counseling and a P.P.S. credential in 2003 from California State University, Long Beach. Becky's job experience includes 20 years as a school counselor and 20 years as the Director of Expanded Learning for the Whittier City School District. Her committee and board memberships include Helpline Youth Counseling (board member), LACOE Group Advisory Group (GAG) and Region 11 Advisory Committee, WCSD management, and wellness committee, and the Whittier Homeless Student Coalition. Becky has been a member of the BOOST Leadership Team since 2010. She was honored to be named the 2022 BOOST OSTI Award winner.
Top 5 Strengths: Input | Ideation | Connectedness | Learner | Belief
Top 5 Character Strengths: Gratitude | Kindness | Honesty | Perseverance | Spirituality
Dwayne Wiggins, Jr., Founder (he/him/his)
A Human. Being!, La Mesa, CA
As a recognized motivational coach, Dwayne holds a Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Business and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Full Sail University, where he was President Emeritus of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Currently pursuing a PhD in Advanced Human Behavior, he advocates for afterschool programming, earning the 2023 Afterschool Champion Outstanding Quality Award. Now the Director of Culture, Dwayne, is dedicated to equipping individuals with essential life skills and promoting self-improvement through his company, "A Human. Being!"
BOOST Conference Implementation Team
Nicolette Biagi, BOOST Volunteer (she/her/hers) Nicolette Biagi has recently begun her journey in the OST world and appreciates and respects everyone working with youth. She LOVES that BOOST is helping shape the love and care so many students will receive! Nicolette is a dog mom of an amazing Frenchie named Warner that brings her and others so much joy. Nicolette’s is currently on a journey to find her purpose and understand who she wants to be in this world. As a first-time volunteer at the 2024 BOOST Conference, she had never felt that kind of love and energy that is impacted on by supporting youth and is excited to work alongside of so many amazing people to create BOOST 2025 & many more!
Erica Cardoso, Risk Management Associate (she/her/hers)
Think Together, Santa Ana, CA
Erica has been a part of OST for over 20 years and the last 18 years at Think Together; having held various positions from Site Coordinator to Regional Operations Analyst and is currently the Risk Management Associate. She received the "2024 Mike Frobenius Making An Impact" Award for her Service Above Self and dedication to her organization's mission. Erica has her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology and Minor in English from California State University, Los Angeles. In addition, she's held a Cosmetology License for 20+ years, loves to explore various creative talents, and is always seeking a fun new journey!
Top 5 Strengths: Includer | Achiever | Communication | Woo | Responsibility
Top 5 Character Strengths: Fairness | Bravery | Kindness | Creativity | Perseverance
James Stephens, Substitute Teacher (he/him/his)
San Diego Unified School District, San Diego, CA
James Stephens has worked in the OST field since 1978. In addition to undergraduate degrees in Child Development and Business, James has a Master's Degree in Education. He has been involved with the BOOST Conference since 2007. After more than 35 years working in the field of education, James “retired” and is working as a Substitute Teacher in San Diego. James is the father of two grown children, daughter, Waverly, and son, Spencer.
Top 5 Strengths: Positivity | Maximizer | Futuristic | Developer | Strategic
Top 5 Character Strengths: Humor | Fairness | Gratitude | Creativity | Forgiveness
BOOST Conference On-Site Support Team
Serjio Acevedo (he/him/his)
Los Angeles, CA
Top 5 Strengths: Woo | Input | Communication | Includer | Positivity
Top 5 Character Strengths: Love | Love of Learning | Curiosity | Social Intelligence | Leadership
Jerome Coleman-Oryall
Assistant General Manager with Wolfgang Puck Catering, Los Angeles, CA
Jerome Coleman-Oryall is an Assistant General Manager with Wolfgang Puck Catering, serving Apple in Los Angeles. He began volunteering with BOOST in 2024 and brings a strong commitment to service and community. Jerome has a background in youth development, having volunteered in after-school programs throughout high school, and continues to find purpose in supporting initiatives that empower educators. He is proud to contribute to an event as impactful and inspiring as BOOST and is passionate about helping create positive experiences for all attendees. Jerome attends church with his partner, Shanyce, and enjoys lending a hand for causes that make a difference.
Delia Contreras, Community Schools Facilitator (she/her/hers)
La Mesa Spring Valley Schools, La Mesa, CA
Delia is a caring, energetic, and knowledgeable professional with over 10 years of experience educating, guiding, and supporting diverse individuals and their families through their journey in education. In her most recent role as Manager of Research and Evaluation at Monarch School Project, she designed and implemented innovative data tracking methods to improve services for students and families and used her data analysis skills to highlight programmatic impact. In addition, she worked closely with the Jacobs Institute for Innovation and Education at the University of San Diego on one-of-a-kind research that measures the socio-emotional learning trends of unhoused youth. Her priority is creating educational programming that facilitates knowledge so that students can find their source of intrinsic power and make informed and intentional life-changing choices.
Top 5 Strengths: Context | Input | Achiever | Connectedness | Learner
Ana Danielson, Program Coordinator (she/her/hers)
Mono County Office of Education, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Ana has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Spanish Language and Literature. She has lived and worked in many countries and thoroughly enjoys traveling, hiking, snowboarding and reading. She believes learning should be fun and strives to share her enthusiasm for languages and learning with others. Ana has worked in education and public libraries for years. She has served on non-profit boards, and state, and local committees and works to enhance community resources specifically related to lifelong educational opportunities, and continues to focus her energy on improving and enhancing educational resources for students and families.
Top 5 Strengths: Input | Intellection | Achiever | Responsibility | Learner
Top 5 Character Strengths: Kindness | Zest | Love | Fairness | Curiosity
Eddie Garcia, Director (he/him/his)
Think Together, Santa Ana, CA
Eddie García has been in the educational field for over 29 years. He is currently the Director of Student Support Services for the Lennox School District. In this capacity, Mr. Garcia coordinates intervention programs and services to support students by addressing the academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs of children to maximize achievement and growth. Prior to working with the student support services office, Eddie was the Director of the Expanded Learning Program, working to provide a safe environment for students to participate in a quality after school program that included academic enrichment, physical fitness, visual and performing arts, college/career awareness, and provided a strong focus on Youth Development.
Eddie graduated from California State University, Dominguez Hills in 1999, where he received his degree in Liberal Arts. After raising his teenage nephew and niece because of the passing of his beloved sister, Eddie pursued a Master's Degree in Public Administration from California State University, Long Beach. He strongly believes that higher education is the key to success and continuously reinforces it with the students of Lennox. While Mr. Garcia has a wide variety of experience and knowledge, what he enjoys most is providing professional development because it allows him time to connect with other educational professionals in the county to enhance the school experience for students in the Southern California area.
Top 5 Strengths: Adaptability | Relator | Deliberative | Ideation | Belief
Aida Hairston, Business Support Assistant
San Diego County Office of Education, San Diego, CA
Aida is the Business Support Assistant with Whole Child Community Design Department. Aida joined San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) in 1996 as a student worker/temp. She began her career through a 2-week temporary assignment with the ROP department and never left. Since then, she has supported various departments and teams. In 2015, she was named SDCOE Employee of the Year. Aida has her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in criminal justice and a master’s degree in human behavior. She has served as a Sergeant in the United States Army Reserves for the past 27 ½ years and is looking forward to reaching her goal of 30 years of service. She was deployed overseas in 2003 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Outside of work, Aida is a dedicated mom to George Aidan (10 yrs) and Savannah Georgia (9 yrs) and enjoys volunteering at their school. She enjoys travelling the world and has visited over 9 countries, and looks forward to continuing this tradition with her husband and children.
Top 5 Strengths: Futuristic | Achiever | Responsibility | Positivity | Arranger
Christine Lafontant, Regional Manager (she/her/hers)
County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation, San Diego, CA
Christine Lafontant is a Region Manager for the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation. She is responsible for managing park facilities including Waterfront Park, one of the county’s most significant outdoor event venues, and coordinating major special events such as community festivals and countywide movies in the park series. She was previously responsible for administrative and fiscal functions for all programs and activities targeting all age groups in 3 community centers and 2 teen centers, organizing major special events including health fairs and youth diversion programs such as the Outdoor Adventure Program for at-risk and foster youth. Christine holds a bachelor’s degree from Boston College and has over 20 years of experience in the field of recreation and youth programming. She has been the program coordinator of after school and summer programs and has served as a consultant and trainer for over 300 after school programs in San Diego County. In addition, she served in AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps for two years where she developed a passion for service learning. Christine is a Certified Festival and Events Associate through the International Festivals and Events Association and National Recreation and Parks Association.
Willie Mebane, Retired Firefighter/Current Realtor
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
With deep roots in the Inglewood and Los Angeles communities, Willie brings a lifetime of dedication and service to his work as a real estate agent. Before beginning his career in the Fire Department, Willie began his journey of community service working in after-school programs with the City of Inglewood, where he discovered his passion for making a positive impact in people's lives. This early experience working with youth and families shaped his understanding of what home and community truly mean.
Willie's commitment to giving back continues through his volunteer work with organizations, including BOOST, demonstrating that his service to the community extends far beyond his professional responsibilities. He has supported BOOST since 2023 as an on-site volunteer and is an imperative member of the BOOST Leadership Team. Whether he's helping a first-time homebuyer or volunteering his time for a worthy cause, Willie approaches every opportunity with the same integrity and dedication.
Tasha Melendez, Program Director
Camp Fire Long Beach, ABC Unified School District, Long Beach, CA
Born in Puerto Rico and raised on the East Coast, I've dedicated over 15 years to working with youth and after-school programs. My passion lies in creating opportunities and spaces for young people who may not always have access to them. After moving to California in search of better opportunities for my family, I've continued my work in youth development, recently stepping into a new role as an EXCELS Program Director with Camp Fire. I'm excited to collaborate with the BOOST community and continue uplifting the next generation through meaningful, engaging out-of-school-time experiences.
Caitlyn Monaco, CARES Program Lead Teacher (she/her/hers)
Orange Unified School District, Orange, CA
Caitlyn Monaco has worked for Orange Unified School District for the past 14 years. Her bubbly personality and commitment to family and children quickly moved her up the ranks and allowed her to attend the BOOST Conference where she fell in love with the positive atmosphere and networking which BOOST provides. Presently, she is working towards her Associate's Degree both in Childhood Education & Biological Sciences. She loves exploring the world, getting messy, great movies, and taking naps. Born in New York and raised in California, Caitlyn has a unique perspective to life: Enjoy it and don’t sweat the small stuff, just “Fugetaboutit Dude.”
Top 5 Strengths: Positivity | Strategic | Communication | Discipline | Includer
Top 5 Character Strengths: Zest | Kindness | Gratitude | Hope | Love
Darlene Mosher, Retired/Consultant (she/her/hers)
Rancho Mirage, CA
I worked in the educational field for 20+ years. I received my bachelor’s degree in accounting from Cal State Fullerton in 1982. After working as an accountant for 18 years and raising my two daughters, I returned to school and received my single-subject math and multiple-subject teaching credentials from the University of La Verne, as well as a Master’s degree in Education. In 2005 I received my Administrative Credential from Cal Poly Pomona. From 2009-2021 I oversaw the afterschool program for Pomona Unified School District supporting up to 28 school sites, approximately 150 staff members, and about 2,500 students daily. I retired in June 2021 and now enjoy volunteering, vacationing, and spending time with friends and family.
Top 5 Character Strengths: Creativity | Judgment | Teamwork | Fairness | Kindness
Michael Mosher, Retired/Consultant (he/him/his)
Rancho Mirage, CA
Mike retired after a 37-year career in sales and marketing with the largest multinational food and beverage company in the world, Nestle SA. Mike held increasing levels of leadership with the company working in the U.S. with national responsibility and international projects. After retirement Mike joined Fullerton College as an Adjunct Professor teaching business courses both on campus and remotely. Mike has a BA in Marketing from Cal State Fullerton and an MBA from the University of La Verne. Competencies that enabled strong results through others include coaching and development, energizing and engaging employees, and influencing with integrity, insight, and courage.
Dave Palmer, Founder/Chief Dunker (he/him/his)
Dunk Tank Marketing, La Mesa, CA
ElizaBeth Parker Phillips, Deputy Director- Support Services (she/her/hers)
Catalyst Family, Inc., Sacramento, CA
Top 5 Character Strengths: Creativity | Humor | Perseverance | Love | Curiosity
Jaron Williams, Director Of Student Programs (he/him/his)
Citizens Of The World Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
Jaron is a tactful visionary leader with over ten years of experience in managing and developing youth programs across various platforms such as traditional K-12, charter, and non-profit youth development. Jaron has taken on leadership roles and has demonstrated his expertise in cross-functional team development, strategic planning, and management. He has developed frameworks for youth programming, and prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion. His effective communication and public speaking skills have enabled him to drive continuous improvement and lead cross-functional teams in achieving goals.
Top 5 Strengths: Restorative | Analytical | Individualization | Relator | Significance
Honor Roll
Mary Jo Ginty, Region 11 Lead 
Los Angeles County Office of Education, Downey, CA
Mary Jo Ginty is the former Regional Lead/Program Coordinator at the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) After School Technical Assistance Unit. This Unit provides staff training and development, consultation, and technical assistance services to the 1300+ school sites that support after school programs funded through the After School Education and Safety Program (ASES) and/or 21st Century Community Learning Center grants. Over 130,000 students participate in these programs which also provide over 10,000 employment opportunities in the county. Ms. Ginty directed and oversaw after school programs at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She experienced the power of change that these programs brought to students and their families. Her professional experiences over the past years include: Owner of a successful consulting firm, high school teacher, high school principal, college professor, lobbyist, and community organizer. She holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from UCLA and a Bachelors's Degree in Business and Social Welfare Administration from Ursuline College. Her spare time is spent enjoying her family, leading a Junior Girl Scout troop, music, and cooking in all forms, and sitting on the Board of Directors of her 10-year-old daughter’s school. Mary Jo Ginty believed that after school programs have the potential to assist youth to gain the skill sets, tools, and knowledge and have the experiences necessary to make a life for themselves and their families.
Click the image below to read some of our BOOST Leadership Team member's accolades.
Interested in joining the BOOST Leadership Team?
We have opportunities to be a part of the BOOST Leadership Team, Implementation Team, or On-site Support Team. Join us as a part of our diverse body of expanded learning and in and out-of-school time program representatives in the field.
We are committed to diversity and to equal opportunity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, height, weight, physical or mental ability (including HIV status), veteran status, military obligations, or marital status. At BOOST and in all BOOST-related activities and events, we affirm the sexual orientation and gender identity of each individual and aim to create LGBTQ-inclusive and affirming environments and learning opportunities. This policy applies to hiring, internal, promotions, training opportunities, advancement opportunities, and terminations. This policy also applies to all employees, Leadership Team members, volunteers, clients, and contractors that present/speak/exhibit at or sponsor BOOST-related activities and events.
BOOST Leadership Team Contact
Tia Quinn, Founder & CEO
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