Staff

Kaylan Billeci Molina
ACT Alumni Program Manager
Kaylan joined Opportunity Junction as a career counselor in August 2018. She has a bachelor's degree in human development from California State University, East Bay and attended Los Medanos College for her associate's degrees. Prior to OJ, Kaylan’s experience was in childcare, as well as in the nonprofit sector as a facility manager for a children’s crisis and respite facility. In her current role, Kaylan helps participants, typically Career Counseling and Placement Assistance program alumni, with finding gainful employment. She updates their resumes, sends them job leads, and helps them prepare for interviews. She also assists with the Bureau for Private and Post-Secondary Education related accreditation tasks as needed, as well as helping the Administrative Careers Training program staff during recruitment. Her favorite part about this work is witnessing the real-life positive impact that OJ has on community members. Whether witnessing a client blossom with confidence after they’ve worked with OJ, or checking in with an alum months down the road to find out that they are still employed and doing well, she said it’s incredibly rewarding to help make a difference in someone’s life. Outside of work, Kaylan likes to garden, watch TV, go out to eat, and spend time with her family and friends.
" My favorite part of working at Opportunity Junction is being able to help create positive change in the community I grew up in. I also enjoy working alongside passionate and dedicated individuals."

Dionne Blackman-Moeller
Health and Wellness Manager
Dionne joined Opportunity Junction (OJ) in January 2017 as a college and career counselor. She specialized in helping our transitional aged youth (18-24) complete their educational goals in partnership with Los Medanos Community College (LMC). She continues to serve on the Foster Youth Advisory Committee to address barriers and build a strong learning community for youth. Dionne graduated from LMC years earlier with an associate’s degree in behavioral science and social science before transferring, like many of her students, to Cal State East Bay where she then earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in human development. She recently earned her masters degree in educational leadership and policy studies with a concentration in workforce development leadership from Sacramento State University. She used her workforce development expertise and 25 years of experience in healthcare to serve as our Healthcare Career Pathway (HCP) program manager for 5 years, after which she now serves as our Health and Wellness Manager. Her favorite part about this role is supporting her team in creating trauma-informed curriculum and policies that foster professional and personal development and growth in our students as they launch and navigate careers. Outside of work, you will find her caring for her many house plants and pursuing her lifetime goal of “tasting the world” as a gastro-traveler.
" I thoroughly enjoy working here at Opportunity Junction because it gives me an opportunity to make a positive contribution to the very community where I'm raising my own children. It brings me great joy and satisfaction to help give young adults a path to personal growth and self-sufficiency."

Alexis Bonn
Vice President of Development
Alexis joined Opportunity Junction in 2019 as director of development. After graduating from Azusa Pacific University with a master’s of business administration and bachelor’s in psychology, Alexis honed her marketing and communications skills in the banking and construction sectors. With an ultimate goal of raising funds to support OJ’s programs, she currently manages our individual donors, events, marketing and communications. Her favorite parts about working for OJ are hearing the bell ring when an intern gets their first post-program job and seeing program alumni eager to pay-it-forward by becoming donors. Outside of work, Alexis can be found volunteering, doing marketing and communications consulting, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with her loved ones and fur-babies.

Carmela Buenrostro
HCP Alumni Career Coach
Carmela originally joined OJ in October 2018 as the first professional development instructor for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. She moved out of the Bay Area but was more than happy to return virtually as the Healthcare Career Pathway (HCP) alumni coach. She graduated in 2000 from Saint Mary’s College of California with a bachelor’s degree in adolescent/adult psychology. As the HCP alumni coach, she continues to work directly with the CNA graduates in achieving their dreams of working in healthcare. Carmela invites the alumni to participate in “chat” sessions and workshops and provides support while they navigate through career steps. Her favorite part of her work is being able to witness how a participant evolves from a student to a healthcare worker who brings “person-centered care” out into the world. When Carmela is not working, she enjoys participating in outdoor adventures with her family.
" The most rewarding part of my job is to see a participant grow in their skills and confidence. They enter the CNA program with thoughts that they never would have had the ability or means to acquire an education that would be the gateway to their healthcare career path. Through hard work, dedication and the support from our program, they become a vital part of healthcare. Some have moved on to LVN and RN programs and they remember that Opportunity Junction was there, by their side during the journey, to remind them they had the strength, spirit and heart to do it!"

Bryan Calderon
Career Counselor
Bryan joined Opportunity Junction in October 2025 as a Career Counselor. He has an Associate’s Degree in Anthropology, Liberal Arts: Behavioral Science and Social Science, and Liberal Arts: Arts and Humanities from Los Medanos College. He also received his BA in Anthropology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. After graduating from UC Santa Cruz, Bryan spent the next 7 years working in the marketing and sales industry in various roles, starting off as an Account Manager in the Bay Area and then moving to Pittsburgh, PA, to work as a Junior Executive in a marketing firm that oversees campaigns for Fortune 100 companies. From there, he moved to Columbus, OH, for the opportunity to work as an HR Manager at a marketing start-up. After being away from the Bay and family for so long, he chose to leave Columbus and move back to California to be closer to family. In his current role, he provides guidance and coaching for people needing assistance with résumé building, cover letters, job searching, and mock interviews. Outside of work, Bryan enjoys going to music festivals (he has been to Coachella 6 times), attending anime/comic conventions, playing video games, and cheering on the 49ers and Warriors with friends and family. His favorite part about working here is being able to make a lasting difference and give back to the community that he was born and grew up in.

Michael Caudillo
Computer Skills Instructor
Before stepping into his role as the computer skills instructor for OJ’s Administrative Careers Training (ACT) program, Michael was a student himself! While going through the program in late 2019, he was recognized as a strong tutor, who often helped his fellow students. He later became a teaching assistant before assuming the instructor role this year. His day-to-day activities include teaching Microsoft programs to the trainees of the ACT class and helping them understand how to use the programs in their daily lives and future careers. “What made me want to work at OJ was the fact that I would be helping people in my community while stepping outside my comfort zone and expanding my skills to meet their needs,” Michael shared. He said his family motivates him to do well inside and outside of the office. “I want to provide for them and keep them happy,” Michael continued. And he has a creative side – he is passionate about art, and one of his hobbies is miniature painting.

Serena Chavez
M.A. Professional Development Instructor
Serena joined Opportunity Junction in October 2024. As a Bay Area Native, she has worked and volunteered within the community over the last 15 years helping with youth and college & career programs, outreach for the unhoused, crisis counseling, and post-trauma care. Her background consists of an Associate’s Degree Majoring in Criminal Justice from Western Career College in Antioch CA. Serena has a passion for helping others, as she understands what it takes to move forward in life. She has also obtained a Counseling Degree from Calvary Chapel University, where she has learned skills to bring to those entering the workforce. As a Professional development instructor, she will be able to integrate the knowledge and expertise that she learned from her many years’ volunteer work and education. She is most passionate about lending a hand, ear and heart to those that will be a part of Opportunity Junction.” Their success is my success” When Serena is not at work she finds herself practicing self-care. She loves to take walks on the delta or evening runs in her neighborhood with her husband. Weekends are always full of activities for her children. Family time fills her soul.

Ja'Nae Craig
Manager of Administration and Operations
Ja’Nae joined Opportunity Junction as executive assistant in November 2019. As an East Contra Costa County native and alumna of the local community college district, Los Medanos College, Ja’Nae received associate’s degrees in business administration, accounting, and liberal arts. Utilizing these achievements to build on her success, Ja’Nae worked her way up from receptionist and multi-district administrative assistant for H&R Block to become a multi-unit office manager and tax advisor. With this in mind, Ja’Nae could not help that her heart has always been in her community and local community based organizations (CBOs). As executive assistant, Ja’Nae’s role supports our organization in many ways. She primarily coordinates meetings and schedules for the CEO and the Board of Directors, ensuring that board policies and procedures are implemented based on needs. She also provides wrap-around support to the executive team and dedication to the achievement of the organizational goals. Ja’Nae’s favorite part of our work is the amount of community advocacy and transformative training programs provided to East Contra Costa County residents – knowing the impact of change that Opportunity Junction provides, elevating future generations. In her spare time, Ja’Nae loves to cook, mostly soul food with a specialty for fried chicken and collard greens!

Geneveve David-Crisp
Receptionist/Program Assistant
Most of my professional experience has been within the operations of theMortgage Lending industry. This allowed me to practice my administrative and customerservice skills on a daily basis. More recently, I have become an Opportunity JunctionAlumna (Class 73) after completing the Administrative Careers Training (ACT) program.Through this accomplishment, I have become aware of the wonderful impact thatOpportunity Junction has made within the community. I am proud to be part of theOpportunity Junction team, and look forward to assisting and empowering futureprogram participants in their goals and successes. In my spare time I enjoy volunteeringwith the local food bank, a good laugh, site seeing, and sharing memorable momentswith my family.

Alissa Friedman
Senior Advisor
Alissa joined Opportunity Junction in 2001, originally working as the project manager with the Administrative Careers Training program interns. In 2003, she took over as the executive director and served in that role until announcing that she would retire in 2023. She is currently serving as Senior Advisor during this year of transition. Alissa holds a bachelor of arts degree with honors in physics from Harvard University and a Juris Doctor from Berkeley Law School. Her prior professional experience was similarly diverse. Before joining the organization, she worked in software development for eight years, as an attorney for Morrison & Foerster for two years, and as managing partner of the law firm of Friend & Friedman for five years. She has been honored as Woman of the Year both by Assemblymember Susan Bonilla (2012) and State Senator Steve Glazer (2018). She particularly enjoys her continuing relationships with program alumni and is proud of her collaborations with partner organizations in the area. Outside of work, Alissa enjoys playing pickleball, writing and performing songs, being in nature, and spending time with family and friends.
" I get the deepest possible satisfaction from hearing 'I love my job' from an alum who pops in for a visit. I smile and reply, 'so do I.' My favorite times are when we're tackling a challenge, and each of us contributes ideas from our own perspective. There's the sense of shared purpose and camaraderie. From childhood, I've believed that this work represents the highest form of charity: helping others do for themselves."

Natalie Georgia
Program Manager
Natalie joined Opportunity Junction in 2000, initially working as the program coordinator. She has served as manager of personal development for the Administrative Careers Training (ACT) program since 2004. She has more than 20 years of experience serving the community by developing lasting relationships. As a case manager to the trainees, she provides resources, support and coaching to ensure success. The manager of personal development is also responsible for leading information sessions and interviews for ACT applicants. Natalie said the best part of her job is witnessing transformation in action – watching an intern ring the bell and seeing the elation as they talk about their new job.Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, baking, and doing any activity with her precious grandson, whether that’s flying a kite or exploring. The beach on an overcast day is how she replenishes her energy, along with a good cuddle from her little dog.
" I love working at Opportunity Junction because I get to witness the transformative power of change every day."

Nicole Hall
Professional Development Instructor
Nicole joined Opportunity Junction as a Professional Development Instructor in October 2020.She has a background working in the medical field as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Home Health Aide; she also received training as a Restorative Nursing Assistant. Her passion in the medical industry keeps on growing, and she is currently about to start her prerequisites for the nursing Program at Los Medanos College. Nicole works with our partner site, Mt. Diablo Adult Education, where she helps provide students with the life skills needed to obtain and retain employment as CNAs. This fall, she will be transitioning over to the Antioch Certified Nursing Assistant Program site, where she will continue to provide these valuable services to our community. Being an Opportunity Junction alumna herself, Nicole knows firsthand the positive impact our training programs provide in helping disadvantaged individuals establish financial sustainability in this uncertain economic environment. Her favorite part of the job is when she is able to help support families with our food bank and Loaves and Fishes food services. She said these wrap-around support services allow our students to concentrate more on their studies and a little less on some of their financial challenges. In her spare time, you will find Nicole out enjoying nature and any type of water sport. She especially loves to hike, swim, Kayak, and will soon be adding cage diving with the great whites off the shores of San Francisco to her bucket list of fun. Good luck with that one, Nicole!
" Now, I get to share my experiences and knowledge with those who share the same motivation for helping others as I do. What a blessing"

Libbie Hodas
Grant Writer
Libbie joined Opportunity Junction in 2026 as the Grant Writer where she manages institutional giving, working with foundation, government, and corporate funders. After she received her BA in English from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Libbie served in the United States Peace Corps in Poland and AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) in Boston, igniting a lifelong passion for serving others. She holds an MA in Museum Studies from John F. Kennedy University, where she focused on storytelling, community engagement, and civic dialogue. Libbie's fundraising career began in the arts sector at organizations including American Conservatory Theater and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, before returning to community development advocacy in positions at the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano and Civicorps, a California Conservation Corps in West Oakland. Libbie is committed to advancing workforce development in local communities. She is thrilled to support individuals at OJ as they make a meaningful change in their life's journey. In her free time, she enjoys hiking through urban and wild terrains, supporting local bookstores, and day tripping in the Bay Area.

Linh Luangrath
CNA Instructor
Linh joined Opportunity Junction in March 2025 as a CNA Instructor. She earned two Associates Degrees in Allied Health and Natural Science at Diablo Valley College. She is an alumni of OJ’s CNA program, Class 2, which led to her to earn a Diploma as a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Gurnick Academy with experience in home health and K-12 school setting. As the CNA instructor, she is currently training and preparing students to join the healthcare world. Working on building up their work ethic, professionalism, and person centered care skills. Linh’s favorite part of her current role is that this is a full circle moment for her. She was once in this same place as her students and now she gets to help the next generation of CNAs flourish and build more confidence in the amazing work and care they will be providing to patients. In her free time, she loves to travel/go on trips with her family, from flying around the world to driving up the coast to go tent camping.

Maya Maqsoudi
Director of Employer Partnerships
Before joining Opportunity Junction, Maya was one of our employer partners. As a lead recruiter at The Plus Group, a staffing agency, she had great success placing Opportunity Junction graduates in open positions with her clients. Through those placements, she got to know many of our participants and learned more about their experiences and goals. Their stories resonated deeply with her and eventually led her to join Opportunity Junction herself. Maya understands firsthand how challenging it can be to return to the workforce. After stepping away from her career for seven years to raise her three children, she experienced the uncertainty and challenges of looking for work after a long absence. That experience gave her a deeper understanding of how meaningful the right opportunity can be and continues to inspire her work today. As Director of Employer Relations, Maya builds and nurtures relationships with local employers and connects them with skilled, job-ready candidates who have completed Opportunity Junction’s free career training programs. She enjoys getting to know each participant, understanding their strengths, and finding employer partners where they can put their skills to work and continue to grow. “Our participants work so hard to learn the skills needed to succeed,” Maya says. “It’s my job to get to know them, understand their strengths, and match them with the right employer partners.” Maya takes pride in helping create connections that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of Opportunity Junction participants while also helping local employers find talented employees. Outside of work, Maya enjoys spending time with her family and being in nature, especially near the water. She loves exploring new hiking trails and is always looking for her next adventure, whether that means discovering a new place or traveling to a new country.

Chi Nguyen
Job Developer
Chi joined Opportunity Junction (OJ) in August 2025 as a job developer. He has a BA in East Asian Literature and Cultures with an emphasis in Japanese from the University of California, Riverside. He lived in Japan for 7 years, including 5 years participating in the JET Program (Japan Exchange and Teaching Program) as both an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) and CIR (Coordinator of International Relations) where he strengthened ties in local communities through teaching ESL, translation and interpretation work, leading cooking classes, coordinating a Sister City 2-week exchange with Pocatello, Idaho, during the summers, and hosting the inaugural Halloween Festival that has continued to this day. In his current role, he helps Medical Assistant graduates gain confidence through the Externship program and supports students as a placement/career coach. Outside of work, Chi likes to volunteer, watch TV, play golf and soccer, and spend time with his family and friends. "My favorite part about this work is transforming graduates’ lives and watching them achieve financial stability."

Yemi Oni-Orisan
CNA Program Director

Cynthia Penado
Bilingual Career Counselor/Consejera Vocacional Bilingüe
Cynthia joined Opportunity Junction as a career counselor in 2024. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from San Francisco State University and is bilingual in English and Spanish. Before joining OJ, Cynthia worked in the financial industry, where she educated clients on saving and planning for their financial futures. In her current role, Cynthia supports participants in securing fulfilling employment by helping them update their resumes, providing job leads, and preparing them for interviews. She finds the most rewarding aspect of her work to be the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of people and to witness the positive impact OJ has on the community. Outside of work, Cynthia enjoys dancing, spending time with family and friends, watching movies, and exploring new types of cuisine. She also loves spending time with her dogs.

April Poulter
Healthcare Career Pathway Program Manager
April Poulter joined Opportunity Junction in March 2024 as the Professional Development Instructor for the MA Program. She was then promoted to Healthcare Career Pathway Program Manager in August 2024, which is her dream job. April said, “Being able to lead an impactful team that helps people improve their lives is an honor.” April is an Oklahoma native, who has been working with underserved populations to overcome barriers and achieve their goals for the past 11 years. She is passionate about helping others grow, become successful, and live life to the fullest. With many years of life experience, April understands many of the struggles that individuals face and is grateful to work in the field of helping others thrive. Outside of work, April loves to spend time with her husband, son, and dog, as well as facetiming siblings, nieces, and nephews in Oklahoma. April enjoys writing, painting, reading, gardening, and creating.

Nadya Poveda
Program Coordinator
Nadya joined Opportunity Junction in 2019 as the program coordinator for the Technology Center. She holds a certificate in business administration in small business management from Rafael Landivar University in Guatemala and an associate degree in culinary arts from Santa Ana College. Before joining Opportunity Junction’s Administrative Careers Training program, she worked as a head pantry chef at The Top of The Mark in San Francisco for six years. After her husband suffered an injury at work, she joined our job training program to gain the necessary skills to work in an office. She completed the program as a member of Class 24 in 2008. Nadya is bilingual in English and Spanish. After completing her internship in February 2008, she began working at La Tapatia as an administrative office assistant, where she then worked for 12 years. In 2019, Nadya had the opportunity to apply for the bilingual program coordinator position at the Technology Center. She was extremely happy to be back, noting that it felt like she never left. As an alumna of the ACT program, she was able to witness how this organization provides training and life skills that transform lives. She feels pride and satisfaction from working for an organization that aims to make a difference in the lives of others in a meaningful way. Nadya’s main role at the Tech Center is to assist our community by offering them classes, services and resources to obtain the new skills they need to succeed. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, going out to eat, and watching TV, especially movies, series, and food shows. She has a passion for cooking. It gives her the ability to be creative. She also enjoys being near the water as it gives her an immeasurable sense of peace.

Alicia Quay
Director of Programs
Alicia Quay, Director of Programs, joined Opportunity Junction in 2023. Alicia has been working with residents/clients in Contra Costa County for the past five years in helping them achieve their personal and professional goals. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science from California State University, Stanislaus and Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Arizona, with the hopes of working for a non-profit organization to assist individuals who have the desire to work hard and succeed in life. With her current experience and education, she is grateful to work in this field and have her dream job. Alicia’s primary function at OJ is to ensure programs are running effectively, to provide inspirational leadership, support, and direction on all matters that relate to programming and staff, as well as assist and support the President and CEO, Brianna Robinson. Outside of work, she loves to spend time with her husband, kids, and family. She enjoys cooking, working out, being outdoors, going to the beach and mountains, and taking care of her indoor and outdoor plants!

Kirsten Rigsby
Director of Finance
Kirsten first joined Opportunity Junction in 2024 as a Grant Writer, and in 2026 transitioned into the Director of Finance role bringing a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and strategic growth. She earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of California, Davis, and later pursued further education in Pastoral Ministry at Holy Names University. Kirsten expanded her global perspective by attending language school in Guatemala and serving as a long-term volunteer Social Worker in Honduras. Kirsten’s professional journey includes roles such as Director of Family Faith Formation at St. Anne Church and Executive Director of the Village Community Resource Center, where she collaborated with community members and leaders on strategic initiatives, resulting in a 400% growth in the scope of services during her tenure. What she loves most about her work is building meaningful connections with people and weaving together data, storytelling, and metrics to highlight the success of Opportunity Junction’s trainees and alumni. She is deeply committed to advocating for the resources and support necessary to create lasting, positive change in the community. Outside of work, Kirsten enjoys spending time in nature. Whether caring for her dairy goats and other farm animals, tending to her garden, or cooking for family and friends, she finds fulfillment in the outdoors and the simple joys of life.

Brianna Robinson
President and CEO
Brianna joined Opportunity Junction in 2006 first as a volunteer and then in 2007 as a staff member. After serving in various roles, Brianna became the vice president of programs in 2012. In 2023, she was promoted to the role of President and CEO. Brianna earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Furman University and her master’s degree in educational psychology and educational administration from Temple University. She is a former high school teacher, coach, and administrator. As the Opportunity Junction CEO, she is broadly responsible for strategic vision and leadership, fundraising and external affairs, and infrastructure and operations. Her favorite part about her work is seeing the various components of different programs come together for positive outcomes for our clients. Outside of OJ, Brianna can be found on a field playing softball or kickball or enjoying the outdoors with her family.
" I love being part of an organization that truly impacts our community. We serve an area in great need, and I feel lucky to work here with the most dedicated and caring people I know."

Samuel Sanchez
Facilities

Israel Segura
Administrative and Human Resources Generalist
Israel joined OJ as the Administrative and Human Resources Generalist in December 2024. Israel has a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management from San Jose State University. He has human resources experience in various fields including; civil engineering, food manufacturing, and beverage distribution. As the Administrative and Human Resources Generalist, Israel wears various "hats". Administratively, Israel supports OJ's staff and donor events. On the HR side of his responsibilities, Israel is in charge of full-cycle recruiting, onboarding, policy review and creation, employee benefits, and serving as a backup for the Finance team. Israel's favorite part about working at OJ is being able to support a team that empowers the community. In his free time, Israel loves to travel and spend time with his wife and dog. Israel enjoys a nice blend of staying indoors by playing video games, while also enjoying outdoor activities such as; dirt biking, scuba diving, and snowboarding.

Janelle Stauffer
Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator
Janelle joined Opportunity Junction as the program assistant in 2019. She has several years of customer service and administrative experience. Janelle works closely to assist staff and our Administrative Career Training (ACT) program and manages our front office. She absolutely loves working with our participants, and her favorite part is seeing them come full circle when they complete our ACT program. She said it is an honor to be a part of something that has such a positive impact on so many lives. She enjoys being able to witness our participants gain the knowledge and confidence to find a career that they love. Outside of work, Janelle enjoys spending quality time with her daughter and being at every sports game to cheer her on. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends and finding new TV shows to binge watch.
" If you're not making someone else's life better, then you're not making the best of your time. Your life will become better by making other lives better."

Tiffany Turner
ACT Professional Development Instructor
Tiffany joined Opportunity Junction in May 2025 as a CNA student, where she quickly embraced the challenges and opportunities of the program. Her dedication and passion for the field led her to transition into the role of CNA Professional Development Instructor in August 2025, and ACT Professional Development Instructor in January 2026. With over 10 years of experience as a coach and personal trainer in the fitness industry, Tiffany is deeply committed to helping others improve their health and well-being. Her favorite part of her current role is the ability to give back to her students, as she understands firsthand what it’s like to be in their shoes, having once been a CNA student herself. She takes pride in guiding and supporting her students through their journeys, drawing on her personal experiences to offer valuable insight. Outside of work, Tiffany loves spending quality time with her two beautiful daughters, family, and dogs, staying active with workouts and bike rides, and indulging her sweet tooth with a love for all things sugary.

David West
M.A. Instructor
On October 15, 2024, David celebrated his "day of birth" at Opportunity Junction. He joined the Navy in 1976, where he became a Medical Corpsman—a decision he regards as one of his best at the time.After leaving the Navy, David spent the next 25 years working in various medical roles, including EMT, CNA, Medical Assistant, and Respiratory Therapist. In 2005, he successfully challenged the LVN Board Test and passed, allowing him to work full-time at Juvenile Hall for approximately seven years. He also worked part-time as a nurse in Corrections (San Quentin, Santa Rita), which he found both dangerous and exciting. In 2012, he transferred to the Pittsburg Health Center, conveniently located just two minutes from home.David retired from the Pittsburg Health Center in 2024 after being hired at Opportunity Junction—another good decision, with a commute of only four minutes. Now, he serves as the Medical Assistant Instructor. Although he previously conducted staff and patient education in nearly all of his former positions, this role requires a level of thoroughness and attention to detail that he finds both new and rewarding. He loves the work.David’s hobbies include sports officiating (which helped lead to this role), scooter riding, fishing, and keeping tropical fish in aquariums.

Nolan Yee
Data Analyst
Nolan has been with Opportunity Junction as a data analyst since 2019. After earning a bachelor’s degree in chemical biology with highest honors from UC Berkeley, he worked for eight years doing research and development in analytical chemistry, where he applied statistics and programming to successfully tackle complex projects both independently and as acting technical lead for a team of scientists. This experience led him to transition to data science, which he achieved through intensive self-study and portfolio building. Shortly after, he began working with us, performing data analysis, web development, Salesforce development, and database administration. Nolan enjoys the technical challenges of applying machine-learning to gain insights about how we can better serve our community and creating automations and interfaces that make life easier for staff. Outside of work, you’ll find Nolan volunteering at church, cooking, making art or playing music.

Patty Zavala
Personal Development Instructor
Patty is happy to be back on the Opportunity Junction team as of December 2024, serving as the Personal Development Instructor for the Administrative Careers Training Program. With over 15 years of experience working in the non-profit sector and providing services to underserved populations, Patty has developed a deep commitment to supporting individuals who have experienced significant trauma. This role is truly a dream job, aligning with her passion and expertise. Patty brings valuable insight and dedication to both the team and the program’s participants, leading with a trauma-informed approach and a strong desire to see others succeed. Her favorite part of the job is witnessing the transformative moment when a participant recognizes their own value and begins to overcome the barriers that once held them back—something that's clearly visible in their confidence and presence. Outside of work, Patty enjoys spending time in nature, taking walks, exploring the Farmers Market, and showering her nieces and nephews with hugs and kisses.
Board of Directors

Carol Ann Barber
Owner
Carol Ann Barber Consulting
" I am excited to be involved with Opportunity Junction and serve on the Board of Directors. The organization's mission is a perfect fit with my passion for community service as well as my professional experience in job placement and recruiting. Opportunity Junction provides a foundation for long term success not just in a work setting, but also in life skills."

Qadirah Bey
Certified Nursing Assistant
Bayberry Skilled Nursing
Qadirah, a proud CNA Alumna from Class 9, has been putting her person-centered care skills into action at Bayberry Skilled Nursing Facility in Concord since becoming certified in April 2024. When she was selected to join Opportunity Junction’s Board of Directors, Qadirah reflected on the values that matter most to her: “I want to keep OJ who we are at our core—the foundation of what we believe and where we’re going: caring about people,” she shared. “In all ways, my life was enhanced from this one choice (to enroll in Opportunity Junction's CNA program). I have physically and emotionally healed.” Qadirah is looking forward to serving the organization and its board of directors with the same respect and care that have guided her work from the start. Her long-term goal is to open a six-bed residential care facility, where residents are treated with compassion, provided nutritious meals, and receive high- quality care.

Maria Capote
Management Consultant
Accenture
Maria Capote is a Management Consultant for Accenture: a professional services company helping clients develop, execute, and adopt change initiatives. Maria is passionate about disrupting inequality, fostering inclusivity, and promoting allyship through action. She is also a 2017 alumni of OJ's Administrative Career Training (ACT) program. Maria left OJ to work for Future State, a consulting firm that became part of Accenture in 2021. She also holds an A.S. degree in Business Office Administration from Los Medanos College. Maria's volunteer service includes a term as the president of the Antioch Band Backers Association, as well as projects with OJ, Project Homeless Connect, the PTA, and more.

Richard Corcoran
Vice President and Banker
J.P. Morgan Private Bank
Richard Corcoran is a Vice President and Banker at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Walnut Creek. He guides successful individuals, multi-generational families and entrepreneurs across the East Bay area in taking a holistic view of their often complex wealth management needs and requirements. Before joining J.P. Morgan, Rich was a Director at Quantitative Brokers, where he devised algorithmic trading strategies. He also served as Director of Fixed Income at both Credit Suisse and Lehman Brothers in San Francisco, focused on serving the needs of institutional investors on the West Coast. Rich earned his B.A. in American Studies at Trinity College in Hartford, CT, and currently resides with his wife and two sons in Piedmont.

Raushanah Davis
Audit Director
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Raushanah Davis is a licensed Certified Public Accountant and has 15 years of experience in public accounting. Raushanah has spent most of her career serving retail and consumer, not-for-profit and healthcare companies. Born and raised in the Bay Area, she graduated from St. Mary’s College of California with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration majoring in Accounting and minoring in Economics.
" I believe in the quote 'opportunity plus preparation equals success' and that providing assistance and resources to help people find good jobs epitomizes that quote. Serving on the Opportunity Junction board provides me with the opportunity to work with individuals and an organization that shares in that vision."

Kevin Dilworth
Realtor
Coldwell Banker
Kevin recently concluded a 25-year career as an accomplished Information Technology leader supporting two of California’s largest employers Chevron and Oracle. He recently returned to the real estate profession where he previously owned and operated an independent brokerage for 11 years. Kevin has partnered with Coldwell Banker Realty to service the East Bay real estate market.
" I found Opportunity Junction back in 2012 at a Chevron Volunteer Fair. I was initially drawn in by the mission of Opportunity Junction, and immediately signed up to be a business math instructor. Once involved, I got to see for myself lives forever being changed. I have a passion for giving back to my community, and I’m excited to have the privilege of serving on the OJ Board of Directors."

Penni Hudis
Most recently Director of Institutional Advancement ConnectEd: The National Center for College and Career
Penni has devoted her career to improving opportunities in education, employment, and access to healthcare for people in underserved groups. She has had roles in academia, the private sector, and nonprofit organizations. These have included undergraduate and graduate teaching, research, nonprofit management and fundraising, and volunteering through nonprofit board service. Penni earned a B.A. in Political Science and Sociology from New York University, an M.A. in Sociology. and a Ph.D. in Sociology and Demography from The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

Kathy Jones
Chief Counsel, Environmental
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
" I have long supported and admired the work of Opportunity Junction and am honored to serve on the Board of Directors. The organization provides training and life skills that transform lives by developing the foundation for independence and self-sufficiency. The staff is incredible - determined and dedicated to working with each participant to ensure success. I look forward to working with OJ in continuing its mission to fight poverty in the East Bay."

Kenneth Leung
Technology Manager
California Healthcare Foundation
Ken is an experienced technology professional dedicated to supporting mission-oriented organizations and individuals. He has been the architect of six end-to-end Salesforce implementation. He first got to know Opportunity Junction when researching possible options for sharing referral information between nonprofits' Salesforce implementations.

Susie Martinez
Director of Liaison, Regulatory Operations and Engagement
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)
Susie Martinez is Director of Liaison, Regulatory Operations and Engagement at Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E). Ms. Martinez is an established Corporate Affairs, Marketing, Communications and Community Relations expert with a storied career supporting PG&E throughout critical and regular operations. Ms. Martinez is recognized as a quality-driven leader, advisor, and mentor with a passionate focus on community engagement and stakeholder influence. Ms. Martinez is known for developing and implementing programs that improve and innovate operations, communications, community relationships, regulatory compliance, cost savings, and emergency response events. Ms. Martinez has a Bachelor’s in Business Management from University of Phoenix. In her spare time, Ms. Martinez is a certified Zumba and UJam instructor at 24 Hour Fitness.
" “You miss 100% of the shots you never take.”"

Miguel Mauricio
Associate
Miller Starr Regalia
Miguel Mauricio is a land use attorney, with significant experience as a policy advisor and political strategist. Currently, Miguel serves as an associate in Miller Starr Regalia’s Land Use Group, where he advises clients on land use matters. Previously, he served as the Legal and Policy Director of the East Bay Leadership Council (EBLC) where he led the organization's political and advocacy efforts. Prior to joining EBLC in 2024, Miguel was an associate at the firm Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, where he practiced real estate and land use law. Preceding his legal career and time in law school, Miguel spent 3 years working as a policy advisor for California State Senator Steve Glazer. In this role, he helped craft policies to help solve the state’s housing crisis, improve transportation infrastructure, and address the root causes of poverty. While in law school, Miguel served as an economic policy advisor in the New York City mayoral race, organized law students to protect the right to vote at election polls in Pennsylvania during the 2024 election, and worked as a law clerk for U.S. Senator Alex Padilla’s judiciary committee assignment. From 2022-2024, Miguel served on a Contra Costa County commission and led efforts to successfully reform the county’s contracting process. Since 2022, Miguel has served on the board of directors of the Kennedy-King Memorial Scholarship Fund Ltd. Miguel is a graduate of Yale Law School and UC Berkeley where he was a Miller Scholar.

Pamela Powers
Vice President of Training and Corporate Development
Bay Alarm Company
Pamela has had a long and fruitful career working with Bay Alarm for over 25 years. She is a senior business leader who believes that strengthening an organization’s performance begins with focusing programs on culture and people. Training is her passion, and seeing employees grow their careers and minds is her goal and commitment.
" Understanding your potential is all about your internal drive to be better. I believe that Opportunity Junction is committed to finding that potential in those that might not see it just yet in themselves. Their journey is about self-discovery, self-reliance and independence. I am grateful that they are allowing me to travel with them to assist in the voyage."

Renee Reid
Staff UX Design Researcher
Renee Reid is a Staff UX Design Researcher at LinkedIn with over 20 years of professional experience in various roles including Project Management, Customer Experience, Sales and User Experience. She is also the LinkedIn Campus Lead for the Black Inclusion Group BIG (an Employee Resource group (ERG), a Boys and Girls Club mentor, as well as a Professional Mentor with TechWomen, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs created by the Obama Administration.

Matthew Riley
Director, Head of Risk and Oversight for Portfolio Compliance
Blackrock
Matthew Riley has over 20 years of experience in the Investment Management industry. He has led a variety of teams during his tenure, most recently focusing on Risk and Oversight. Originally from Los Angeles, Matthew moved with his family to Contra Costa County in 2008. Matthew graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a Bachelors of Business Administration in Finance.

Justin Santiago
VP / Relationship Manager | Services
U.S. Citi Commercial Bank
" Opportunity Junction is an organization near and dear to my heart. The mission of Opportunity Junction is to provide those wanting to succeed the tools, resources, and training, not just for a single job, but for a lifetime of opportunities. I truly enjoy serving on the Board and have done so since 2020. I am so happy to be a part of an organization that is truly changing people’s lives by providing the opportunity to advance. I have personal experience with family members who have changed their career paths for the better because of this wonderful organization."

Elizabeth Stokes
Co-Owner
J. Stokes & Associates, Inc.
Elizabeth Stokes (Betty) is co-owner of J. Stokes & Associates, Inc., a creative marketing agency, for over 40 years, with a broad spectrum of clients, and retired Chief Flight Instructor for Sierra Academy of Aeronautics, Rotorcraft. She also has extensive retail management experience. Betty has worked with Opportunity Junction’s Gala fundraiser for over 20 years.
" Opportunity Junction’s holistic approach to helping people in my community with a full range of technical and life skills is personal for me, as I know how first hand how lives for generations will be transformed. Being part of Opportunity Junction Board of Directors is exciting and a privilege."
Matt Tillman
President
Plateau Data Services
Matt Tillman serves as President of Plateau Data Services, a portfolio company of Caivis (investors include David A. Steinberg and John Sculley). Mr. Tillman previously served as the Senior Vice President and General Manager for Zeta Global's Financial Services business where he had overall responsibility for managing the P&L of the financial services division. Prior to joining Zeta, Mr. Tillman served as the Head of Sales of Adchemy Actions, a business unit of Adchemy, Inc. Prior to Adchemy, Mr. Tillman co-founded FastFind.com, an internet marketing services company funded by Dan Gilbert (CEO of Quicken Loans and owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers) and sold to Bankrate, Inc. Mr. Tillman has also served in senior sales roles at Bankrate, Inc., GetSmart.com, a division of Providian Financial and Wells Fargo Bank. He graduated with a BA in Political Science from the University of California at Los Angeles.

Karolyn Wilhelmsen
Director of HR Systems, Analytics and Payroll
CSAA Insurance Group
" Over the course of my 20+ years in human resources I have discovered a passion for developing tools to support employees in meeting their career goals. I’m eager to work with such a like-minded organization supporting members of the community in meeting their personal goals."
Advisory Council
Iris Archuleta, CEO, Emerald HPC International, LLC
Keith Archuleta, Founder/President, Emerald HPC International, LLC
Jodi Avina, Director of Recruiting Operations, CFOs 2GO
Jacqueline Bhagavan, 2015 Mrs. California, Host, Complexion Kitchen
Christine Bonifacio, VP, Program Manager, Wells Fargo at Work Program
Hon. Diane Burgis, County Supervisor, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
Sandy Bustillo, Welfare-to-Work Manager, Contra Costa Employment and Human Services
George Carter, Economic Development Project Manager, Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development
Val Davis, East County Advocate
Osbaldo Garcia, Vice President and Branch Manager, Mechanics Bank
Sue George, Director, Center for Teaching Excellence, Haas School of Business
Hon. Shanelle Scales-Preston, County Supervisor, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
Jim Jakel, Founding Board Member
Angela Lowrey, Public Information Manager, Delta Diablo Sanitation District
Curtis McAdams, Relationship Banker, Umpqua Bank
Meryl Natchez, CEO (Retired), TechProse
Richard Pagano, State Farm Agent, Antioch Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
Sharon Pappas, Principal, Antioch Area Community Fund
Nancy Parent, Former Mayor, City of Pittsburg
Ricardo Perez, DDS, Owner, Cosmetic Dental Spa
Laurie Phillips, Diablo Valley College
Adriana Ponce-Matteucci, Employee Experience and Engagement Manager, Rubicon Programs
Ashrita Prasad, Bay Area market chief of staff, U.S. Bank
Juan Prieto, Family Development Specialist, California Human Development Corporation
Jackie Seeno, Land Development, Community Relations Manager, Owner, Cyrus Land Investments, LLC, A.D. Seeno Construction Co. & Discovery Builders, Inc
Arne Simonsen, Former City Clerk, City of Antioch
Tonya Smith, Senior Communications Coordinator, Bayer, Opportunity Junction Alumni, Class 5
René Tucker, Employer Liaison, EASTBAYWorks-Brentwood, Opportunity Junction Alumni, Class 8
David Wahl, Manager of Workforce and Economic Development, Los Medanos College
HCP Advisory Council
Alumni Council
Composed entirely of alumni of our Job Training and Placement Program, the Alumni Council has input into the strategic direction of Opportunity Junction programs and has input on activities for Alumni.
The members of the Alumni Council are:

Raquel Borjon
ACT Class 72

Harriet Davis
ACT Class 72

Shantavia Killings
ACT Class 62

MyHanh Lopes
ACT Class 68

Summer Ramos
ACT Class 68

Lada Velichkov
ACT Class 40