Los Angeles, California, United States
I am a Program Manager, Professor, Poet, and Peacemaker with over 25 years of experience building bridges across justice, education, and community systems. My work sits at the intersection of youth development, policy, and education — where I design programs, teach, and write with a vision of community unity. As an educator, I’ve taught and trained students, educators, and professionals on topics including restorative justice, cultural competency, and leadership development. As a justice leader, I’ve directed countywide initiatives that transform systems for youth, families, and immigrant communities. And as a poet, I remind us that “our words can be borders or bridges,” using language as a tool for healing and connection. I bring together research, creativity, and practice — advancing systemic change while cultivating human connection through teaching, writing, and dialogue.
-Monitor for potential need for specialized de-escalation of volatile situations at vote centers. -Provide Election Troubleshooter with capacity-building services regarding conflict management. -Assess for potential specialized de-escalation services. -Determine the appropriate de-escalation techniques that will help in the specific situations presented. -Support safety and compliance with state election law to conduct voting without interference or intimidation. -Identify, answer questions and discuss options with appropriate points of contact. -Share appropriate guides with points of contact. -Document situation and services. -Communicate with election officials and assess whether other stakeholders need to be contacted. -Assist Election Officials with information about rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.
I mediated high-stakes conflicts involving schools and communities throughout the West Coast. I conducted workshops on conflict resolution, cross-cultural awareness, and effective dialogue for students, staff, and community groups. I supported schools in integrating restorative practices into educational environments. I also led the strategic planning process for our region covering the West Coast.
I was the manager overseeing Workforce Development Board programs and staff. I was a liaison between stakeholders and the Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board. I was appointed chair of the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity's Equity Action Team's Human Relations Committee. I advised DEO Equity staff on the development of interdepartmental presentations between the Los Angeles County's Commission on Disabilities and Workforce Development Board.
I led countywide youth initiatives advancing racial equity, restorative practices, and cross-agency collaboration for the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations. Education & Training: I designed and facilitated county trainings for youth, educators, law enforcement, and community leaders on cultural competency, restorative justice, and equitable leadership. I developed curricula and workshops for schools and community-based organizations on conflict resolution, inclusive practices, and youth empowerment. I supervised initiatives blending policy development with educational outreach for youth and justice-impacted communities. I directed program design and community engagement strategies to strengthen equity. I conducted program analysis to align education-based interventions with county policy goals.
I provided technical assistance and capacity-building for school-communities in order to create safer, more inclusive schools and communities where vulnerable populations like young immigrants can thrive. Facilitated restorative justice and conflict resolution programs in schools and communities. I trained county employees, educators, students, and community stakeholders in mediation, facilitation and belonging strategies. I designed educational materials and curricula to support youth development and cross-cultural understanding.