Odesma Dalrymple, PhD
Professor at USD
Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Odesma Dalrymple, PhD, is a proponent of education equity as a key mechanism for ensuring just social growth and development. As a trained engineering education scholar, Dr. Dalrymple’s professional and service work is focused on transforming engineering education and its public image; making it more inclusive, and socially connected. This mission is partially actualized through her research that seeks to identify, develop and evaluate tools, techniques and pathways that can facilitate deep learning and sustained interest in engineering and other STEAM fields, particularly for populations that have been historically under-represented in the STEM workforce in the United States.
Alberto “Beto” Vasquez, Ed.D.
Director of EAOP
Alberto “Beto” Vasquez, Ed.D., is the Director of EAOP (Early Academic Outreach Program) and STEM/Community Engagement at UC San Diego CREATE. He has a Master’s Degree in biology and currently leads K-20 programs to expand opportunities for students in STEM fields. He is the youngest of 4 children born to Mexican parents and grew up in Logan Heights. Beto also serves on several non profit boards and has served on the City of San Diego’s Commission on Gang Prevention.
Marisela Chevez
STEAM Program & Research Coordinator
Marisela Chevez is a STEAM & Research Program Coordinator at UC San Diego CREATE. She was born in Los Angeles, California and has a degree in History from the University of California at Berkeley. Marisela is currently pursuing a Master’s of Library & Information Science through San Jose State University’s School of Information. She is also a Girl Scout troop leader.
Co-program Manager for Pactful
Ashley Ahrens-Víquez '17 has a background in outreach coordination, philanthropy, project management, and grant reporting. Her previous work has included managing large-scale grant programs, developing campaigns to engage diverse audiences, and building relationships with stakeholders across various sectors. She has consistently focused on initiatives that promote community engagement, social good, and educational equity. Currently, Ashley serves as the Program Operations and Engagement Manager at the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education, where she supports programs such as Pactful and eSPAC3. In this role, she contributes to program growth, community engagement, and operational support for the Institute’s initiatives.
Nadiah Al-Gasem, Ph.D
Co-program Manager for Pactful
Dr. Al-Gasem is the Project Manager for Pactful at the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education. Pactful is a curriculum that empowers teens and educators to tackle local and global issues. Using design thinking, Pactful provides tools to innovate for social good.
Celina Gonzalez
Program Manager for Project VisMO
Celina Gonzalez is an educator and curriculum specialist with Project VisMO who is passionate about creating joyful, hands-on learning experiences. A former elementary and special education teacher, she helps design and facilitate innovative math and STEAM programs that build students' confidence, curiosity, and visuospatial thinking through creative, origami-inspired learning.
Dean and Mathematics Educator
Ashley Ahrens-Víquez '17 has a background in outreach coordination, philanthropy, project management, and grant reporting. Her previous work has included managing large-scale grant programs, developing campaigns to engage diverse audiences, and building relationships with stakeholders across various sectors. She has consistently focused on initiatives that promote community engagement, social good, and educational equity. Currently, Ashley serves as the Program Operations and Engagement Manager at the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education, where she supports programs such as Pactful and eSPAC3. In this role, she contributes to program growth, community engagement, and operational support for the Institute’s initiatives.
Ron Peterson
Volunteer Educational Docent
Following a 40-year career with the Office of Naval Research, Dr. Ron Peterson lost his vision because of glaucoma and dedicated his retirement to advancing assistive technology with the blind and low-vision community. He volunteers with the Braille Institute, collaborates with University of San Diego engineering students and community partners, and is a co-developer of the Step Navigation app. This fall, he will co-teach Assistive Technology for the Visually Impaired at USD with Professor Susan Lord.
Dr. Lavar & Kristina Watkins
CEO & President & Educators
DR. LAVAR AND KRISTINA WATKINS are the visionary founders of LKW STEM FOUNDATION, with a bold mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to explore, discover, create, innovate, and thrive. LKW STEM FOUNDATION serves students and families throughout San Diego County and beyond. Through STEM camps, robotics programs, STEM Saturdays, family STEM nights, school partnerships, library workshops, mentorship opportunities, and community events, LKW STEM FOUNDATION creates joyful, hands-on, and meaningful learning experiences that help students see themselves as scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, innovators, educators, and future STEM leaders. While LKW STEM FOUNDATION programs are open to all learners, Dr. and Mrs. Watkins intentionally prioritize outreach to communities that have historically faced barriers to STEM education, career exploration, and access to future-ready opportunities. Their work serves as a bridge connecting students to colleges, careers, industries, mentors, and life-changing possibilities. Through their leadership, thousands of students have been empowered to dream bigger, think differently, build confidence, and envision bold futures for themselves. Together, Dr. Lavar Watkins and Mrs. Kristina Watkins have built more than a nonprofit. They have built a movement of opportunity, innovation, hope, and transformation. Their vision extends far beyond preparing students for careers. LKW STEM FOUNDATION is helping develop the next generation of problem-solvers, leaders, creators, and changemakers who will shape a brighter future for our communities and our world.
USD Professor
Susannah Stern, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of San Diego, and founding Director of the Youth + Media Insights Lab. Stern’s research on youth and media emphasizes youth agency, and she is centrally concerned with the complex and dynamic relationships young people share with digital technologies. Her work draws attention to the cultural consumption, self-expression, and identity work that accompany young people’s media and digital participation. Stern offers a variety of courses that investigate the role of media in contemporary life.
Josh Williams
CEO, Engineer, Educator
Joshua Williams is a visionary engineer, changemaker, and community-builder whose life’s work sits at the intersection of innovation, service, and social impact. As the Founder and CEO of Young Echelon (YE), he is dedicated to equipping young Black leaders with the tools, exposure, and confidence to thrive in STEAM fields and beyond. YE’s four-year leadership program and forthcoming Global Immersion initiative reflect Joshua’s belief in the power of identity, cultural connection, and community empowerment as pathways to equity
Cherrishan (Cherry) Diamzon
Student at USD
Cherrishan (Cherry) Diamzon recently graduated from the University of San Diego with a B.A. in Communication. A multimedia creator, Cherry was the Director of Operations for USD Media, as well as a Research Assistant in the Youth+Media Insights Lab. Shannen Limqueco is a rising senior in Communication at USD. She has a range of roles at USD, including serving as a lead assistant in the Youth + Media Insights Lab.
Founder, Principal Investigator
Victor Hugo Minces studied fine arts and physics at the University of Buenos Aires, and obtained his Ph.D. in Computational Neurobiology at the University of California, San Diego, where he is now a research scientist. He has published work about how neural networks in the brain represent the sensory world, about the cognitive development and neuroscience of music-playing, and about the role of music in science education. He is the founder and director of Listening to Waves, a project seeking to engage adolescents in the science of music that has reached hundreds of thousands of people through workshops and digital technology. Dr. Minces’ work has been featured in the BBC, he has collaborated with the San Diego Symphony in a series of concert-lectures about the science of music and, as a keynote speaker, he has led very large audiences in exploring sounds and making music together. The development of Listening to Waves allowed Dr. Minces to combine his passion for art, science, and public service, and gave him the opportunity to develop as a creator of awe-inspiring sound experiences. Dr. Minces’ art aims to bring those experiences to the general public. His public art installations can be played with at the World Beat Center, in San Diego’s Balboa Park, and at the California Center for the Arts, in Escondido.
Laura Rivard, PhD
Distinguished Teaching Professor at USD
Laura Rivard, PhD is a Distinguished Teaching Professor of Biology and Outreach Coordinator for the Sciences at the University of San Diego. For more than two decades, she has inspired students through innovative biology education while building meaningful partnerships between the university and the San Diego community. Her work focuses on genetics, science literacy, biomedical ethics, and expanding access to STEM education through hands-on K–12 outreach programs. As faculty advisor for USD's STEM Outreach Club, Dr. Rivard is passionate about fostering curiosity, increasing diversity in STEM, and empowering the next generation of scientists through engaging, community-centered learning experiences.
Mrinalini Nathan
Program Manager for Project VisMO
Mrinalini (Mrini) Nathan is the Program Manager for Project VisMO at the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education at the University of San Diego. She leads the planning and implementation of VisMO programs, collaborating with educators, researchers, and community partners to expand access to engaging, hands-on mathematics experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and meaningful learning.
Morgan Appel, PhD
Assistant Dean at UCSD
Morgan Appel is Assistant Dean for Teacher and Community Education at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, where he oversees educational programs serving students, educators, parents, and community stakeholders. His work focuses on educational innovation, the neuroscience of learning, parent engagement, organizational change, and STEAM education. A former leader at UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education, Appel teaches at both UC San Diego and UC Irvine and hosts *Creative Conversations* on UCTV. He serves on several nonprofit and education boards and is a volunteer educator with the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization.
Emalyn Leppard
K-12 Educator & Garden Coordinator
Emalyn Leppard is a USD alumnae ‘98, and San Diego Unified School District Teacher Of The Year - 2010. Earning her certification in Horticultural Therapy, she retired from the classroom in 2020 to focus entirely on outdoor education and sharing the knowledge of the people plant connection with students of all ages. She is the School Garden Coordinator for Sage Garden Project, a national conference presenter, facilitates Garden Therapy workshops, and is a fierce defender of equitable nature-based learning for all.
UCSD Pathology
UCSD
At the STEAM Youth & Community Conference, the UC San Diego Department of Pathology will introduce participants to the fascinating science behind disease detection and medical diagnostics. Through engaging, hands-on activities, attendees will explore how pathologists use microscopes, laboratory technology, and scientific investigation to solve real-world medical mysteries, inspiring young learners to discover careers in healthcare, science, and biomedical research.
Engineer
Paul Gary Phillips is a retired Support Engineer from Qualcomm with a degree in Physical Science: Mathematics from Colorado State University. His career has spanned a variety of roles, including Photo Specialist at Northrop, Computer Animator at Digital Arts, and Test Engineer at Qualcomm. Paul is also the creator of two published coloring books, produced through his MathArt.us graphic design website. As a Toastmasters Gold-level speaker, he brings both expertise and enthusiasm to every presentation—you can expect an engaging and inspiring workshop.
Tracey Herriot
Founder and Creative Director
Tracey Herriot is the founder and creative director of Clicbitz and the nonprofit Educreate, both San Diego-based mobile education programs that inspire and empower youth and families through hands-on creative learning. We offer workshops in sewing, fashion design, weaving, coding, 3D printing, digital design, and more, where participants learn by making while developing practical skills and creative confidence. Sustainability is at the core of all our programming, with a focus on reducing waste, repurposing materials, and fostering meaningful conversations about environmental responsibility and waste-free living. Clicbitz and Educreate collaborate with organizations including United Way of San Diego, City of San Diego libraries and parks and recreation, Zero Waste San Diego, area school districts, and UCSD CREATE. Fully mobile and equipped with 25+ sewing machines, 20+ laptops, and other maker tools, our programs bring engaging, accessible, and sustainability-focused learning experiences directly into communities across San Diego.
AnchorSTEM Scholars
USD AnchorSTEM Scholars
AnchorSTEM Scholars are part of a program at the University of San Diego dedicated to sustaining and strengthening partnerships with pre-college serving community organizations. AnchorSTEM supports the retention, graduation, and success of local "Rising Stars" in STEM fields by recognizing the importance of students' backgrounds and the assets they bring. The program emphasizes the collective effort of the community to advance each member and underscores the value of retaining and strengthening students' ties with their community and family to help them succeed in college. Entering first-year scholars receive up to four years of scholarship support and individualized mentoring from carefully selected STEM faculty who participate in a community of practice. AnchorSTEM Scholars: Amy Perez, Abriel Almera, Su Lah Min Min, Anthony Famoyin, with Ron Peterson
Robotics Team
We are a robotics team based in San Diego, California, that was started in 2011. We have students ranging from 6th grade to college undergraduates. We currently participate in the RoboBoat, RoboSub, and RobotX competitions. Our goal is to be able to learn the most we can about robotics and to spread all that knowledge to others. Fittingly, our team motto is: To learn, to share, to innovate, to inspire!
The Ecologik Institute
Environmental STEAM Education Organization
The EcoLogik Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting the next generation to nature and technology through hands-on, inquiry-based STEAM education. By combining environmental stewardship, outdoor exploration, and innovative STEM learning, EcoLogik empowers youth to become confident scientists, community leaders, and changemakers. Through programs including summer camps, leadership academies, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, the organization inspires young people to develop a lifelong passion for science while building the skills needed to create a more sustainable and equitable future. Lucinda Anderson (Design and Innovation) and Kate Wood (Intern)
Fatemeh (Maral) Asgarinejad
Assistant Professor of Teaching at UCR
Assistant Professor of Teaching in Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at University of California Riverside. Their research explores the intersection of CS and ECE education—centering engaged, continuous learning—and uses machine learning, data science and mathematics to solve real-world problems. Previously, they received their Ph.D. from the University of California San Diego. During their Ph.D., they received the 2025 Barbara J. and Paul D. Saltman Excellent Teaching Award from UC San Diego, as well as the 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award from the UCSD Computer Science and Engineering Department.
Victor Chang
Product Development Engineer
In addition to being a product development engineer in the Life Sciences, Biotechnology, and Medical Device industries, I have been a custom bicycle builder for over 25+ years and have bicycles all over the country. My wife and I have been avid cyclists for over 30 years, including riding more than 12 double century (200 miles in one day) rides on our tandem.
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The Clueless FTC
Middle/high school students
We are FTC robotics team #11212, The Clueless! Made up of 13 high schoolers in San Diego, we are passionate about spreading our love of science/engineering to the community and increasing global accessibility of robotics. Today our team consists of Sophia Hu (Outreach Lead), Aiden Lee (Software Lead) , Rishi Shah (Mechanical Lead).
Chila Caldera
Origami Educator and Artist
Chila Caldera is a talented local origami instructor who has hosted community paper-folding workshops at public libraries. If you are looking for her, you can find her past class schedules and artistic projects documented on her Instagram Profile.
Shon Mackey
Accessibility Advocate
Shon Mackey is an accessibility advocate and community leader dedicated to advancing inclusion for people who are blind or have low vision. Through his work with the Blind Community Center of San Diego, he helps create opportunities for community engagement, recreation, and lifelong learning while promoting greater awareness of accessibility and independence. Passionate about breaking down barriers, Shon enjoys sharing his lived experiences to inspire more inclusive communities and empower others to recognize that accessibility benefits everyone.
Jeri Nolan
Education Manager at Ocean Discovery Institute
Jeri Nolan is the Education Manager at Ocean Discovery Institute, where she develops and leads engaging, hands-on STEM learning experiences that inspire young people to explore science and build confidence as future leaders. Through her work, she helps create inclusive educational programs that empower students with the knowledge, skills, and curiosity to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Stephanie Buttell-Maxin
Program Director at CGEP
Stephanie (Steff) Buttell-Maxin is a Program Director with the California Global Education Project (CGEP). With her collective experience in CGEP and the California Geographic Alliance, Stephanie is dedicated to supporting California PK-12 educators and students in their understanding of global issues and the skills necessary to meet those challenges. Previously she was a Spanish/English bilingual teacher in the National School District in National City, CA. During her career in the district, she taught second through sixth grades.
Aliyah Jones
USD Alumna
She is a University of San Diego Alumni, who got her degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering from the Shirley Marcos School of Engineering. She is now pursuing her career as professional dancer with the Movement Talent Agency in Los Angeles, with over 19 years of dance experience. On top of dancing and engineering, she loves working with youth and advocating for STEAM development and working with non profits.
Mike Maxwell, PhD
Professor at National University
Mike Maxwell is a professor in the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at National University, where he teaches ecology, invertebrate zoology, and general biology. He is the founder and lead organizer of the NSF-funded project "Biology through Art", which brings artistic expression into biology courses. His art approach emphasizes drawings and acrylic painting. Biology through Art includes biologists and artists from over 40 universities and museums in the US and Canada. As a biologist, his research examines the mating behavior, genetics, and ecology of praying mantises in California, in which the "art of love" may be fatal for the male.
Erica Merrell
Assistant Lab Supervisor at National University
Erica Merrell is the Assistant Laboratory Supervisor at National University. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from National, where she assisted with Dr. Maxwell's research on praying mantis genetics. Her interests in biology include entomology and exploring the connection between art and insect morphology. Her experience in art is rooted in Biology through Art coursework at National, utilizing different media to explore creative understandings of biological concepts. With fun Pokémon games and drawing activities, the fusion of biology and art provides STEM accessibility to all learners through fostering a creative, collaborative environment.
Nancy Banuelos
Business Development Officer
Nancy Banuelos is the Business Development Officer at Mission Federal Credit Union.
Michelle Soto
Professor at National University
Mike Maxwell is a professor in the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at National University, where he teaches ecology, invertebrate zoology, and general biology. He is the founder and lead organizer of the NSF-funded project "Biology through Art", which brings artistic expression into biology courses. His art approach emphasizes drawings and acrylic painting. Biology through Art includes biologists and artists from over 40 universities and museums in the US and Canada. As a biologist, his research examines the mating behavior, genetics, and ecology of praying mantises in California, in which the "art of love" may be fatal for the male.
Elizabeth Sneddon
Neuroscientist
A science educator, community engagement professional, and neuroscientist, this individual is passionate about bridging the gap between scientific research and the communities it serves. They specialize in translating complex scientific concepts into engaging, accessible learning experiences for students, educators, and the public. With more than 11 years of experience, they have led outreach initiatives, coordinated educational events, supervised and mentored students, and managed collaborative projects across academic and nonprofit organizations. Their work is centered on expanding access to STEM education, fostering meaningful community partnerships, and creating programs that inspire lifelong learning. Throughout their career, they have secured more than $500,000 in competitive grant funding and delivered presentations nationwide on topics related to Substance Use Disorder. They have also co-developed science education programs, led multidisciplinary teams, and created educational content for audiences ranging from elementary school students to research professionals. Their work reflects a commitment to making science more inclusive, accessible, and impactful for diverse communities.
Miriam Maldonado
Community Health Promotion Specialist
I am an MPH graduate from SDSU with interests in community health education. I am particularly interested in family health, women's health, physical activity and improving nutrition education among Latinos. My research experience has helped me develop skills in program planning, implementation, evaluation, qualitative research and analysis. I am committed to infusing these skills throughout my career in order to increase the quality of life for others through education, support, and research.
Emily Morris
Education Experience Supervisor
Emily Morris is a wildlife educator and conservation professional at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance with a passion for connecting people to nature through engaging educational experiences. With a background in animal care, environmental education, and public engagement, she has worked across zoos, aquariums, and conservation organizations to inspire curiosity about wildlife and promote stewardship of the natural world.
Pearl Mecenas
ExSJ Executive Manager
Pearl Mecenas brings a collaborative and mission-driven approach to her role with the Engineering Exchange for Social Justice (ExSJ) at the University of San Diego’s Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering. With a background in program operations, community-engaged partnerships, governance support and student leadership mentorship, she works to strengthen relationships among partners, students, professional networks and other universities. Her work supports initiatives that reflect ExSJ’s commitment to engineering from, with and for the community. Mecenas is also the founder of Gifted Blind Artists, Crafters and Knitters (Gifted Back), an initiative dedicated to celebrating the talents of the blind and low-vision community through art, music and handmade goods. Through collaborative programming and community engagement, she helps raise awareness while creating inclusive opportunities that highlight the creativity, skill and contributions of blind and low-vision artists.
Susan Nowicke
Nonprofit Founder
CFRE Nonprofit Visionary | Founder of EcoVivarium | International Speaker & Collaborator Susan Nowicke is a global voice for conservation, STEAM learning, and educational equity—a nonprofit leader who transforms bold ideas into programs that change lives. As the Founder and Executive Director of EcoVivarium, she leads one of the largest reptile sanctuaries and living museums in the United States, a 10,000‑sq‑ft hub where more than 400 rescued reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods—many with complex medical or behavioral needs—find lifelong care and purpose. Her mission is clear: connect underserved and neurodivergent learners to conservation through immersive, hands‑on STEAM experiences. These programs don’t just teach—they empower communities, breaking down barriers to education and sparking a lifelong connection to science, nature, and cultural understanding. Susan is an internationally recognized speaker and collaborator, working with educators, nonprofits, and policymakers to design inclusive, high‑impact programs that unite communities and protect our planet’s most misunderstood species. An entrepreneur at heart, she pioneered Reptigreens—the first fresh, organic, nationally distributed food formulated specifically for reptiles and birds. Today, Reptigreens is fully integrated into EcoVivarium, ensuring the sanctuary’s residents receive optimal nutrition while furthering its rescue mission. Her work has been featured in regional and national media, industry publications, and community spotlights for her ability to mobilize volunteers, forge cross‑sector partnerships, and rally support to keep critical programs thriving—even in the face of significant challenges.
Liz Davis
Professor at National University
Mike Maxwell is a professor in the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at National University, where he teaches ecology, invertebrate zoology, and general biology. He is the founder and lead organizer of the NSF-funded project "Biology through Art", which brings artistic expression into biology courses. His art approach emphasizes drawings and acrylic painting. Biology through Art includes biologists and artists from over 40 universities and museums in the US and Canada. As a biologist, his research examines the mating behavior, genetics, and ecology of praying mantises in California, in which the "art of love" may be fatal for the male.
Arietta Fleming-Davies, PhD
Associate Professor at USD
Dr. Arietta Fleming-Davies is an Associate Professor of Biology at the University of San Diego whose research explores disease ecology, evolutionary biology, and the interactions between hosts, pathogens, and the environment. She is passionate about engaging undergraduate students in hands-on research and developing innovative, evidence-based approaches to biology education that strengthen quantitative reasoning and scientific thinking. Through her teaching and mentorship, Dr. Fleming-Davies empowers the next generation of scientists to tackle complex ecological and environmental challenges with curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Eric Meyer
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Danielle-Elizabeth Mensah-Baah
Student Innovator & STEAM Leader
Danielle-Elizabeth Margo Mensah-Baah is a freshman from San Diego who leads with curiosity, creativity, and a passion for STEAM. She has earned two Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Awards through more than 400 hours of community service with the Elementary Institute of Science (EIS) and Girl Scouts San Diego. Danielle-Elizabeth is an award-winning student innovator whose projects include a first-place engineering-winning 3D-printed shoe design at the Greater San Diego Science & Engineering Fair and a first-place wildfire detection system through Greater Than Tech. She has held leadership roles in Botball and FIRST LEGO League, joined the youngest team in the 2025 MIT Zero Gravity Space Challenge, and co-hosts The Science Of podcast with Cloudcast Media. Most recently, she led a STEM workshop for more than 100 students in Accra, Ghana, and helped develop a cerebral palsy exoskeleton that earned a Global Impact Nomination in the Jacobs Teen Innovation Challenge. Through service, innovation, and leadership, Danielle-Elizabeth continues to demonstrate the powerful impact young people can have on their communities and beyond.
Chris Wright
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Patricia Lopez
Executive Director
Patricia is a tenacious tech entrepreneur with over 15 years of executive experience. Prior to joining Data Science Alliance, she was the CEO and co-founder of NotesFirst, a cloud-based platform that helps doctors capture and improve the quality of health data in emerging markets of the world. She was selected as a Fellow and Speaker at the 2018 Women's Entrepreneurship Summit held by the United Nations in New York City, and was featured in Forbes' “60 Women-Led Startups That Are Shaking Up Tech Across The Globe”. At the age of 21, Patricia started her first company, LFC Solutions.Net - the first online accounting platform in the Philippines. With her boundless energy and passion for Responsible Data Science, she is determined to help DSA grow.
Tom Davis
Director of Business Development
Tom Davis is an education leader, business development executive, and founder of Net4EdAccess, bringing more than 30 years of experience advancing innovation in K–12 education. A former bilingual science teacher, coach, and administrator, he is dedicated to expanding educational opportunities through STEAM, educational technology, and equitable access for all learners. Tom currently serves as Director of Business Development at the Center for Educational Innovation and is an active board member and advisor for organizations focused on digital equity, English learner success, and educational innovation, helping connect schools, communities, and industry to create meaningful opportunities for students and educators.
Christina Roc
Talent Management Leader
Christina Roc is a talent management professional with over 20 years of experience supporting mission-driven organizations through workforce development, leadership, and organizational strategy. She is passionate about building strong teams, developing talent, and creating pathways for professional growth. Through her work with organizations such as Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, Christina brings expertise in connecting people, innovation, and organizational success.
The Eco-Catalyzers
The 2026 EcoCatalyzers are educators from schools across the San Diego region: Amanda Palucki, Rachel Davey, Sydney Jaime, Taylor Shinnick, Sophia Flores, Sarah Leach, William Carter, Johnathan Ricks, Christopher Siciliano, and Ashley Healy. Through this year-long, NSF-funded Research Experiences for Teachers program, offered collaboratively by the University of San Diego’s Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering and School of Leadership and Education Sciences, they are strengthening connections between environmental research and student learning. Their experience includes a six-week summer research immersion, followed by curriculum development, classroom implementation, reflection, and continued collaboration. Learn more at EcoCatalyzers.
Mercedes Estrella III
Mercedes Estrella III is the AI/STEAM Curriculum Lead and Operations Manager at Hands-On Technology Education (HOTE), where he designs the curriculum, systems, and training behind STEAM programs across San Diego and the Bay Area. A UC San Diego nanoengineer whose capstone research focused on targeted drug-delivery nanoparticles, Mercedes brings technical depth to his teaching and a conviction that every student can build something tangible. He developed HOTE's AI curriculum, AI 250 and AI 260, from the ground up. This program teaches students to think with AI through divergent and convergent reasoning, rather than just using it to get answers. He has spoken on AI integration to educators across the region and represented HOTE at the Smithsonian Science Education Leadership Summit. His guiding belief, in HOTE's words, is: exposure, not exhaustion.
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Annick O'Shaughnessy
Deanna Kwan
Deanna Kwan began her origami adventures when her son, Daniel, discovered Unit Origami by Tomoko Fuse. As a mathematics teacher, modulars are fascinating. At the 1997 OUSA Convention, Deanna discovered people who are friendly, helpful, talented, and willing to share their passion for folding paper. She has taught at every OUSA Convention since. She teaches origami in NJ at schools, libraries, scout meetings, parks, women’s clubs, arts festivals, senior centers and her local folding group. Recently, Deanna has embraced teaching virtually and has been honing skills to enhance the presentation in this platform. She loves the beauty and magic of origami -- the learning, the friendships, the teaching, and the happy faces.
Chila Caldera
Sole Proprietor at Chilagami Arts & Crafts
Today, I'm playing, mostly, and trying to get focused on what I want to do with the next 20 years or so.
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