Class of 2025
Selina Andrews
City of Salinas
Finance Director
Ms. Andrews earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from San José State University. She began her municipal finance career at the City of San José where she held various financial positions across the organization for 15 years. Specifically, within Retirement Services, Finance, Airport, and Fire. She most recently served as Finance Manager for the City of Scotts Valley. Her 18 + years of local government experience extends across financial operations, risk management, and organizational development. Ms. Andrews joined the City of Salinas in October 2023 as Assistant Finance Director and was recently appointed Finance Director.
Andrew Armanasco
Account Executive
Armanasco Public Relations
Andrew Armanasco is a seasoned business strategist with expertise in business development, relationship management, and large-scale operations. His career began in California’s cannabis and phytochemicals industry, where he played a key role in securing funding, navigating regulations, and driving market expansion. As a partner at HOOCO Nanotechnology, he advanced drug delivery systems for medical treatments. He also represented Hill Top Meds, specializing in plant-based cancer therapies, and FLORA, a wellness company using sea buckthorn and cannabinoid infusions. A U.S. Army veteran, Andrew graduated first among 1,200 soldiers at Fort Benning and served as an Infantry Squad Leader in Iraq. He later became Regional Fitness Manager for Fitness Alliance before transitioning into media and public relations. Andrew studied Kinesiology at the University of Tulsa and now resides in Carmel Valley, CA, with his wife, Alexandra.
Isaura Arreguin
Salinas Community Science Workshop
Development Director
Isaura Arreguin is a dedicated advocate for education, leadership, and community empowerment. Born in Michoacán, Mexico, she migrated to California at 17, quickly learning English and setting the stage for a lifetime of perseverance. She holds a B.S. in Sociology from Grand Canyon University and has spent over a decade creating opportunities for underrepresented communities.
As Director of the Salinas Community Science Workshop, Isaura provides hands-on STEAM learning for youth. She has held leadership roles at Creative Commons, First Tee Monterey County, and Hartnell College, leading impactful initiatives on local, national, and global levels. She founded the Latina Professionals CA Central Valley Chapter in 2023 and serves on the national board, empowering Latina leaders. Committed to civic engagement, Isaura is on the executive committee of Democratic Women of Monterey County, advocating for women’s representation. Living in Salinas with her husband and two daughters, she continues to inspire others through her work, heritage, and belief that dreams are meant to be pursued.
Carla Becerra
Monterey Peninsula College
Work-Based Learning Coordinator
Carla Becerra serves as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator at Monterey Peninsula College, where she leads efforts to expand experiential learning opportunities through internships, externships, and strategic employer partnerships. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Behavioral Science with a concentration in Sociology from California State University, Monterey Bay, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership from California State University, East Bay. With a strong commitment to student success, Carla has facilitated numerous work-based learning experiences, equipping students with the professional skills necessary for career advancement. She is also dedicated to expanding opportunities for Undocumented/Dreamer students. Through her leadership, she strives to strengthen the connection between education and industry, empowering students to achieve their academic and professional goals.
Susan K. Blitch
County of Monterey
County Counsel
Susan leads a team of legal professionals in managing civil litigation and advising elected officials and department heads for the County. Susan began her career with the Monterey County Counsel’s Office in 2007 as a Deputy County Counsel and steadily advanced through the ranks, serving as Assistant County Counsel and Chief Assistant County Counsel. After a brief tenure as Interim County Counsel, she was appointed County Counsel in 2024, becoming only the second woman in the County’s history to hold this prestigious position. A graduate of Vanderbilt University, Susan earned her Juris Doctor from The George Washington University Law School. Before joining the County of Monterey, she practiced law at private firms in Washington, D.C., Oakland, and Aptos. Susan lives in beautiful Monterey, California, and enjoys spending her free time with her father, her dog, and her son, who is currently attending George Washington University.
Jordan Caballero
Monterey Bay APEX Accelerator
Procurement Counselor
Jordan Caballero is a Procurement Counselor with Monterey Bay APEX Accelerator. He is also a licensed Realtor with Steinbeck Real Estate. He has a background in event production and marketing. He is a former board member for LULAC #2907 and the North County Recreation & Parks District. He was recently appointed to the Measure G Oversight Committee for the City of Salinas and the board of a local non-profit H.E.R.S. He is currently studying Social Studies at Hartnell College with plans to transfer to CSU Monterey Bay for Global Studies. He enjoys travel, live music, and volunteering at church with his wife Crystal.
Ryan Cash
Bay Federal Credit Union
Senior VP- Chief Experience Officer
Ryan joined Bay Federal in 2015 and has more than 22 years of experience in the financial services industry. Before joining Bay Federal, he held a variety of management roles, including Vice President of Consumer Lending at Financial Partners Credit Union, Manager of Consumer Lending, Underwriting, and Credit Risk at Logix Federal Credit Union, and Operations Manager at Santa Cruz Community Credit Union. Ryan holds a master’s degree in business administration from Pepperdine University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz. He is actively involved in the community and serves as treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Cruz County.
Helen De Young
JRG Attorneys at Law
Firm Manager/Director of External Affairs
Helen De Young is an accomplished leader with over 15 years of experience in strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and community engagement. Based in Monterey County, she currently serves as the Firm Manager and Director of External Affairs at JRG Attorneys at Law, overseeing accounting, HR, and marketing, while fostering a positive workplace culture and enhancing the firm’s brand.
Helen has served on various boards, including as Vice Chair of the Salinas Valley Health Foundation, where she supports strategic fundraising and community outreach. She also served on the PTA Board at a local school and is active with Women of Wine (W.O.W.). Previously, Helen held leadership roles at the American Heart Association and CSU Monterey Bay, where she led advocacy campaigns and alumni engagement programs. A UC Davis graduate, she is passionate about building stronger communities through collaboration and innovation and enjoys hiking, gardening, and exploring the Central Coast with her children.
JP Dundore-Arias
California State University, Monterey Bay
Associate Professor
Dr. JP Dundore-Arias, an immigrant born and raised in Costa Rica, is an educator and researcher dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation and workforce development in Ag-STEM fields. As an Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Agricultural Plant and Soil Sciences program at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB), he plays a pivotal role in training future agricultural professionals while leading research on plant and soil health, with a particular focus on lettuce disease management. He holds a BS degree in Agronomy from Universidad de Costa Rica and a Master's and Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from Iowa State University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His contributions to the field have earned him prestigious recognition, including the FFAR New Innovator Award and the Excellence in Plant Pathology Teaching Award. He was also featured in the 2025 Marquis Who's Who edition, highlighting his impact on agricultural research and education.
Liz Hall
WM (Waste Management)
Public Sector Manager
Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Liz moved to Monterey in 2017 after graduating from Auburn University. Liz has had a passion for the environment for as long as she can remember, often spending more time outside than in. This love of the environment led her to earn a degree in wildlife ecology and management and begin a career in environmental education. In 2020, she found herself seeking a new challenge in an industry that still allowed her to work within the environmental stewardship realm. She began her career with WM working with businesses and schools on increasing their diversion and ensuring compliance with SB 1383. In January 2022 she assumed the role of Public Sector Manager, managing the franchise agreement and relationship between WM and Monterey County and King City, respectively. With a true passion for people and the environment, this role allows her to foster relationships internally and externally to ensure the needs of the community are met. Outside of work she enjoys cooking, reading, hiking, and cheering on the Auburn Tigers. She is married to her college sweetheart and is mom to a spoiled dog
Francisco Guzman
ReGen Monterey
Communications Specialist
Francisco was born in Guanajuato, Mexico and immigrated to California when he was 4 years old. As a child, he moved throughout Monterey County and attended many different schools but graduated from Robert Louis Stevenson High School. Francisco earned an Environmental Science degree from the University of Redlands and is dedicated to environmental education, stewardship, advocacy, and leadership. Francisco is a sea kayaker, sailor, scuba diver, backpacker, and loves to learn and travel. Francisco currently lives in Monterey, CA.
Chris Haubert
Salinas Valley Health
Creative Content Writer
With experience in journalism, large-scale event coordination, and non-profit administration, Chris believes that communication is essential to successful community building. She is honored to serve as the creative content writer at Salinas Valley Health, providing internal and external communication for the public district healthcare system. Chris thrives on a balance of attention to detail with creativity and builds engagement by sharing stories that pair compelling text and images. She appreciates the opportunity to highlight the work of an outstanding team at Salinas Valley Health, transforming often-complex medical information into engaging narratives that inform and educate staff, patients and the community. In all aspects of her work, she strives to foster a sense of connection between the work of a multi-disciplinary team of 2,000+ staff and the people the healthcare system serves. As part of her prior work as executive producer at KSBW TV, Chris produced a yearlong series on Central Coast history. She later served as chief of staff and programs at the Panetta Institute for Public Policy. Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English/American Literature from UC Santa Cruz.
Mark Hennigan
Montage Health / Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula
Director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center
COL(R) Mark Hennigan currently serves as the Director of the Montage Health Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula’s Comprehensive Cancer Center. Prior to relocating to Monterey, he served as the Oncology Service Line Director in Beaufort, SC and the Director of the Liver Transplant Center at the University to Pittsburgh Medical Center. Preceding these positions Mark served as a United States Field Artillery Army Officer for 28 years, holding various leadership positions and culminating as an Army Strategist with multiple tours at the Pentagon. He holds a Master’s Degree in Strategic Leadership, a BS in Biology and Nursing and is board certified as a Nurse Executive. He also received an Executive Certificate from the Harvard JFK School of Government in Crisis Management. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Legion of Merit Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Combat Action Badge. He and his wife Lisa have four adult children.
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Eric Henry
Kaiser Permanente
​Senior Vice President & Area Manager
Eric Henry joined Kaiser Permanente in the Fall of 2023 after holding senior leadership positions with nonprofit health systems in North Carolina, Michigan, and Virginia. Eric is skilled at developing and fostering positive relationships with his team, physician partners and all stakeholders. A highly visible and engaging executive, Eric has consistently delivered on strategic goals, patient experience, financial targets, and improving operational processes to deliver high-quality patient care. He holds a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare degree from Old Dominion University in Virginia, a Master of Accounting from the College of William & Mary in Virginia, and Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration and Accounting from John Brown University in Arkansas. He is board certified as a fellow among executives in healthcare management by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and has completed the executive leadership program with the ACHE.
Randy Hopkins
Marina Police Department
Chief of Police
Randy Hopkins is the Chief of Police for the Marina Police Department, bringing over 30 years of leadership experience in law enforcement, public safety, and community engagement. Throughout his career, he has led high-level initiatives in investigations, homeland security, emergency management, and interagency collaborations at the local, state, and federal levels. Randy has a strong track record in strategic planning, policy development, and organizational leadership, fostering partnerships that enhance public safety and community trust. He holds a Master’s in Executive Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security. Beyond his role, Randy is actively involved in regional law enforcement associations and nonprofit boards, furthering his dedication to public service and leadership.
LeeAnn Jones
County of Monterey
Behavioral Health Unit Supervisor
LeeAnn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with direct service experience that has centered around serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Her 10+ years of experience in various settings, such as shelters, group homes, hotlines, non-profits, and public behavioral health clinics, has led to her belief that it is essential for our systems to work alongside one another as opposed to the currently siloed systems our community members are forced to navigate to meet their multi-dimensional needs. This systems joining work has been LeeAnn’s focus within the last 5-years while working for Workforce Development & Training and Quality Improvement programs within Monterey County Behavioral Health. She holds a Bachelor’s of Art in Intensive World Literature & Cultural Studies (English & Spanish) from UC Santa Cruz and a Master’s of Social Work, specializing in behavioral health, from CSU Monterey Bay.
Kristen Lovell
Beacon Economics
Strategic Partnerships Manager
Kristen Lovell is a problem solver with over a decade of experience navigating complex challenges across industries. As a Strategic Partnership Manager at Beacon Economics, she connects decision-makers with high-impact economic insights. She also serves on the nonprofit Board of the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County, contributing her expertise in strategic growth and community development. Early in her career, Kristen built a global brand and entertainment company with LGBTQIA+ television personalities, pioneering an emerging industry. She has since held executive roles in product development, communications, and brand strategy, advising businesses and launching products. She also co-founded The Social Impact Center, a nonprofit focused on harm reduction. Her expertise spans digital innovation, international supply chains, and diversity advocacy. Kristen holds dual B.A.s in Communications and Theatre Arts from Trinity University and a certificate in Design Thinking from Harvard Business School. Since 2020, she has called Carmel Valley home, embracing its vibrant community.
Gerardo Magaña
Salinas Police Department
Sergeant
Gerardo Magana, a Sergeant who has worked in Salinas for 21 years, is deeply rooted in the community. He is a versatile patrol division and special operations department member, with past assignments that include the Violence Suppression Task Force, Field Training Officer, Sexual Assault Detective, Canine Handler, and Mounted Unit. Gerardo's personal history is intertwined with Salinas, as he is the first generation born in the United States from immigrant parents from Michoacan, Mexico. His educational background includes an AA in Criminal Justice from Hartnell College and a BS in Criminal Justice Management from Union Institute University.
Geoffrey Morgan
CHISPA, Inc.
President & CEO
Geoffrey Morgan leads the CHISPA's operations, strategic growth, and advocacy, serving low- and moderate-income households across Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties. With over 20 years of experience in housing development and ownership, he has worked to provide affordable housing for diverse income levels and populations. Previously, he served as President and CEO of First Community Housing (FCH) for nearly a decade, pioneering sustainable affordable housing in Silicon Valley. He also held the role of Vice President of Real Estate Development at CCH, a national leader in affordable housing for older adults. Mr. Morgan actively supports housing policy through organizations like NPH, LeadingAge, and MBEP. He holds a bachelor's from Cornell University and a master’s in Real Estate Development from MIT.
Sadhna Ortiz
Aspire Health
Director of Population Health
Sadhna is the Director of Population Health at Aspire Health and a proud Monterey County local. With over a decade of experience in healthcare operations, population health, and quality improvement, she’s passionate about making healthcare more accessible and collaborative. She oversees quality performance, driving strategic initiatives to enhance patient care and experience. She also leads the Health Advocate Program, helping connect people with essential social and health resources to support their overall well-being. Sadhna is dedicated to improving patient care, supporting teams, and shaping the future of healthcare through strategic leadership. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family and going to live comedy shows—whether it’s discovering new talent or enjoying seasoned pros.
Alyssa Rendon
See Monterey
Director of Community Relations
Alyssa Rendon is a seasoned community relations expert with a passion for fostering connections between organizations and the communities they serve. She currently serves as the Director of Community Relations at See Monterey, where she plays a pivotal role in strengthening engagement and partnerships in the region. With over a decade of experience spanning government relations, education, and tourism, Alyssa has held leadership roles at TUI Musement, Università Bocconi, and Musement, among others. Her diverse background includes administrative leadership, content operations, and teaching. Alyssa holds a Master of Laws (LLM) in Sustainable Development and a Master’s in Public and Business Communication from the University of Milan, as well as a Bachelor’s in International Relations from UC Irvine. She is multilingual, with proficiency in Italian, Spanish, French, and Romanian. Her expertise in community engagement, government relations, and education makes her a dynamic leader dedicated to driving positive change in Monterey and beyond.
Roy Salazar
Pacific Valley Bank
SVP Senior Relationship Manager
Roy Salazar has recently relocated from Fresno, CA where he lived most of his life and received his Bachlors Degree at California State University, Fresno. He has 20 years of experience in commercial lending throughout the Central Valley and is excited to be a lender here at the Central Coast, primarily Monterey County with Pacific Valley Bank. He moved to Monterey with his son and wife in order for their son to attend Chartwell School at Seaside, CA. He is currently serving his third year as a Board Member for the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation which serves nine counties. He is very interested in becoming a board member for a Non-Profit organization here in Monterey County where he can provide his experience and knowledge. Roy just joined the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce as an Ambassador. When not working, he enjoys quality time with his family, playing golf, walking his dog (Belle) and grabbing some vitamin D at the beach.
Wally Sayles
Natividad Medical Center
Director of Perioperative Services
Wally Sayles provides strategic leadership for a broad range of critical departments, including surgery, endoscopy, and specialized clinics. His deep clinical expertise is built on a foundation of nursing experience at renowned institutions like Salinas Valley Health and Johns Hopkins Medical Center. With a Master of Nursing from Gonzaga University and a Bachelor of Nursing from Loma Linda University, Wally brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Beyond his healthcare leadership, he is a seasoned real estate professional on the Monterey Peninsula and cherishes time spent entertaining and exploring the Central Coast.
Kimberly Schnader
Human Resources Professional
Kimberly possesses over 30 years of Human Resources experience, primarily in both union and non-union luxury hotels. She has proven relationship building skills that includes creating an effective team that treats associates with respect and dignity. Her extensive experience includes innovative employee relations, recruitment and retention techniques that reduce turnover and increase morale. Kimberly is highly integrated into the community and serves as business representative on the Workforce Development Board, chaired the Monterey County Hospitality Association's training and development committee and actively participates in the job and career development for Rancho Cielo students.
Sophia Schwirzke
Central Coast Community Energy
Community Relations Manager
Sophia Schwirzke grew up in Monterey County and attended Sonoma State University. She is the Community Relations Manager for Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) and previously served as a Customer Accounts Manager at 3CE, assisting customers with energy programs and services. Before that, she was a District Representative for Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire, handling community outreach and constituent services. She also worked as a Service and Engagement Team Leader at Target, managing operations and customer service. Sophia represents 3CE on the Santa Cruz County Business Council Board and serves on the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Committee, supporting local businesses and engagement efforts.
Catherine Stihler
Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay
CEO
Catherine Stihler is a distinguished leader, adept community builder, campaigner and advocate. Over the past five years Catherine has successfully led two global not for profits; the Open Knowledge Foundation and Creative Commons. Her visionary thinking, strategic focus and financial acumen propelled both organizations to noteworthy success. With a career including two decades at the forefront of European policy creation and decision making, she uniquely bridges regulation and innovation, helping organizations understand compliance and achieve their strategic goals. Catherine is excited about making a practical difference in her new local community. She currently serves as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee at Stevenson School and sits on the Filecoin Foundation Advisory Board.
Matt Thompson
Monterey One Water
Director of Engineering
Matt Thompson is an environmental engineer with a passion for protecting water quality and our natural environment. He currently serves as Director of Engineering at Monterey One Water. He has previously served in leadership roles at the State of California and City of Paso Robles. Matt is a devoted husband and father of two. Matt is a lifelong resident of the Central Coast and graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Matt enjoys spending his free time outdoors, preferably surfing with friends or hiking with his family.
Tencia C. Vargas
City of Soledad
Economic Development & Housing Program Coordinator
Bringing 13 years of expertise in Community and Economic Development in her role at the City of Soledad she drives business growth, fosters community development, and implements innovative strategies to strengthen the local economy. She studied Business Management and International Business at Chico State, which provided a strong foundation for her career in public administration and economic development. Tencia has led key projects such as the Soledad Container Village Project, the Installation of Murals on Front Street, and the CDBG Business Assistance Loan Program. Passionate about fostering growth and prosperity, she works to build bridges between local businesses and the community, ensuring their interests align for collective success. Committed to sustainable development, she advocates for a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving Soledad, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
Jazmine Venegas
Pacific Gas & Electric
Government Relations Representative
As a Government Relations Representative at Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Jazmine leads local government affairs efforts across Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey Counties, fostering strong relationships with public officials and key stakeholders. Before transitioning to the energy sector, Jazmine gained extensive experience in public service as a District Representative in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she led community engagement initiatives for Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16). With a passion for public policy and community engagement, Jazmine continues to drive meaningful impact through strategic advocacy and relationship-building, underscoring a deep commitment to bridging the gap between the public and private sectors for the benefit of communities.
Martine Watkins
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Local Government Affairs Senior Manager
With over 15 years of experience in education and public policy, Martine Watkins is dedicated to advancing policies and programs that foster healthy, equitable, and resilient communities. Passionate about creating lasting solutions, she views policymaking as the key to meaningful progress.
Martine earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the Leon and Sylvia Panetta Institute for Public Policy at CSU Monterey Bay. She has successfully championed initiatives that support children, youth prevention, families, and community equity. A committed civic leader, Martine serves on several nonprofit boards, including United Way Santa Cruz County, the Santa Cruz Childhood Advisory Council, Visit Santa Cruz County, the Criminal Justice Council, and the Santa Cruz Farmers Market Board. As a former Mayor of Santa Cruz, she spearheaded a community-driven process that led to the adoption of a Health in All Policies ordinance, ensuring that health, equity, and sustainability are central considerations in all city governance and decision-making.
Rick Weiss
Bay Federal Credit Union
Senior Vice President / Chief Financial Officer
Rick joined Bay Federal Credit Union in 2013 and brings over 34 years of financial leadership experience within the credit union industry. He oversees all aspects of accounting and finance for the Credit Union. Prior to joining Bay Federal, Rick served as Vice President of Finance for First Tech Federal Credit Union. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from San Jose State University. Rick is actively involved in the community, serving as treasurer on the Santa Cruz Area Chamber Board of Directors. He previously served as treasurer and Chairperson of the Santa Cruz County Business Council, and past member and treasurer of the Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County Board of Trustees.
Bill Wilson
Monterey County Bank
President & Chief Executive Office
Bill has over 30 years of domestic and international banking experience in the United States, Australia, and Asia. Before joining the MCB team, from 2010-2024 Bill served in C-level and director positions for community banks in Southern California and Hawaii. Bill also has over 10 years of executive management roles with private and public companies at early and second stages of growth including organizational restructuring, business development, financial and strategic planning. He is a board member of the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. Bill is a native of Petaluma, CA and a graduate of the University of San Francisco where he earned a bachelor’s degree in finance.
