STAFF
BOARD
ADVISORY BOARD
Samara Cummins – Development Manager
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I love that we work at the intersection of social justice and the environment. I think these are the two most pressing issues of our time, and our programs address them in tandem.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
Working with a supportive, collaborative and highly capable team of people who are all personally committed to our mission.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
With 20 years of experience working in nonprofits, I’ve done a bit of everything, but my specialties include writing and communications, strategy, program development, program evaluation, and partnership development, with a side of policy, facilitation, and event planning, Prior to working here I spent 12 years working in the world of food systems for the Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture, where I developed programs to support local farmers, teach young people to grow their own food, empower the next generation of healthy eaters, and deepen people’s understanding of how food relates to equity, environment, and the economy, I also did a lot of grant writing, which brought me to this work at Rising Sun.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
Gardening, cooking, hiking, biking, dancing, creating mosaics with stained glass, practicing Spanish as a volunteer with La Colectiva, and honing my newfound skills as a community mediator.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
That everyone’s basic needs be met. This is a prerequisite for tackling our next challenges as a civilization — learning to respect one another, to create laws that truly serve the people, and to be good stewards of our planet.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“Work is love made visible.”
– Kahlil Gibran
510-665-1501 ext. 307
Regina Amos – Case Manager
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
The Workforce Development and Community Impact part resonates with me. I’m excited to serve with an organization that has the goal of Benefiting the community through training, employment, and direct energy and water efficiency services through a variety of programs.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
Working at Rising Sun provides the life experience of empowering individuals, while focusing on the environment, economic sustainability and community with staff passionate about the people we serve.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I come to Rising Sun for Opportunity with over 10 years of Case Management, Human Resources Management, Workshop Facilitation, Academic Counseling and Career Exploration experience working primarily with under-represented populations thoughout the San Francisco Bay Area. I have a B.A. in Psychology from Argosy University, Studied Human Services at Holy Names University, Liberal Art’s and African American Studies A.A. from Contra Costa Community College.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
Attending conferences, spending time with my children, grandchildren. serving the community through my church.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
End Social Injustice
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“Change only happens when what you know is no longer good enough”
– Dr. Lakita Long
510-665-1501 ext.
Sarah Abdelaziz – Regional Manager, Bay Area, Youth Programs
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I am a community organizer and have been since I was a teenager. It is the hope of creating a better world that moves me every day. Rising Sun allows me to pursue this passion dually, by increasing sustainability and energy efficiency, and providing youth with opportunities that they are oftentimes overlooked for.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I like that the staff is mindful, whether in regards to our organizational work or being accommodating and kind to one another. I also love that the building that we work out of has huge windows: I am a sun-loving creature.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I come from a gender and race studies background, and I am an experienced grassroots organizer and teacher. I also come from the global and national south, where community-centered work operates a little differently. I bring these lenses to my work at Rising Sun every day.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
Exploring my new home, The Bay Area, by going on runs, long walks, hikes and to restaurants and parks. I can also oftentimes be found FaceTiming and calling my loved ones who are all over the globe.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
An end to the erroneous belief that systems which hurt us, and the earth, are necessary to our survival and growth as people and nations.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
The idea of truly listening to people inspires me. It is a challenge for me all the time to see the ways in which my ego can trump my ability to really listen to people, but when I do listen closely, I am driven to be a better person and I learn so much more.
Daryl Lambert – Program Manager, Clean Economy Initiatives
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
The part of Rising Sun that resonates the most with me is that it actively works to debunk the idea that environmental sustainability and economic development are mutually exclusive. Furthermore, I really appreciate being part of an organization that creates pathways for individuals and communities to be the best versions of themselves.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I love the fact that we are constantly incorporating feedback and reassessing the program to make sure we are providing the best service to all participants and clients possible. Additionally, I couldn’t be happier to be a part of an organization that creates opportunities while addressing larger issues that threaten communities today.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
Before working with Rising Sun, I worked in volunteer management and disaster relief. I was fortunate enough to support individuals that embody the best aspects of humanity on a daily basis, and I carry the lessons I learned from each of them with me each day. Before that, I obtained a Master’s of Public Administration through the Peace Master’s International Program, which combined a traditional academic setting with three years of service as Rural Community Development Facilitator in Latin America.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
When I am not at Rising Sun, I can typically be found in the outdoors snowboarding, camping, or kayaking depending on the seasons. During the week, however, I can usually be found on a run in Berkeley or in the kitchen adding new recipes to my weekly rotation.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
A job for everyone. A job that makes them happy. And the access and freedom to choose that job.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“A problem well stated is a problem half solved.”
– Charles Kettering
Ian Laettner – Senior Operations Manager
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I love the environmental impact that we have by spreading energy efficiency and teaching youth participants and clients to be more sustainable. I also love the dual environmental/job training mission of Rising Sun, which draws far more people to our organization with many different backgrounds for a wide variety of reasons.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
Everyone is treated with equal respect in our organization because everyone knows that the mission cannot be accomplished without each person’s piece of the puzzle. It feels so good to hear how Rising Sun’s work has changed a participant’s life and that I had a part in that.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
As the data manager, I bring a background of working with various databases, spreadsheets ,and other forms of organizing information. I also have experience working with a lot of big personalities successfully by bringing a calm presence, which has proven to be very helpful while managing inventory, logistics, and data requests from inside and outside the organization
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
Climbing with my friends right by the Rising Sun office! I also love playing golf, tennis, and trivia.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
Making high-quality education universal for all people because it would enable us to solve many other problems.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“This is what a feminist looks like”
– Barack Obama
510-665-1501 ext. 315
Marlin Jeffreys – Program Manager, Adult Programs
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I like the idea of our work being a vehicle that empowers others to achieve stability for themselves and their community.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
The work I do at Rising Sun allows me to effect change and be an activist.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I believe that my understanding of those we serve is valuable, as well as my ability to communicate our mission and vision in the community.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
I’m into healthy living so I’m usually lifting weights or outside working in my garden.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
End racism, classism, and all of the negative attitudes that some people display towards those that are different.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
Never give up and stay strong!
510-665-1501 ext. 342
Roxana Rojas – Program Associate
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I like how Rising Sun offers opportunities to others and how Rising Sun is not only aiming for a better world to live in, but also for individuals’ worlds to be better.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I love our benefits. One of our benefits is we get to work from home every other Friday, which is not only a benefit for us individually but also to the planet, because it reduces our carbon footprint.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I have a B.A in Psychology and that has allowed me to be a well-rounded person through understanding the importance of confidentiality and empathy. I also pride myself on organizational skills.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
You can find me at a concert, shopping, out in nature, or attending a sporting event.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
To find a solution for homelessness.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“Not all those who wander are lost”
510-665-1501 ext. 311
Julia Hatton – Chief Executive Officer & Board President
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
When I tell people about the work that Rising Sun does – how we provide job training for individuals with barriers to employment; about our mission at the intersection of economic equity and climate resilience; how we specialize in serving women, youth, and individuals in reentry – the response is almost always, “Oh, so you’re doing EXACTLY the work that needs to be done right now.” And I have to agree with them. The most pressing issue of our time, in my opinion, is climate change – but that conversation is meaningless unless your solutions start with climate justice. At Rising Sun, we start with workforce development because we need accessible, high-road, equitable career pathways in an economy that will be dominated by our changed climate, and because workers can help drive a just transition to a clean economy.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
It’s a privilege to come here each day and do something that I love and care about, and to contribute to work that matters. For me personally, it’s crucial that I do something in my professional life to help mitigate the effects of climate change, and I’m equally concerned with economic, gender, and racial equity – and our work focuses on that, as well. There’s also a lot of intentionality built into the work we do and how we do it – that really resonates with me. And it’s FUN to work here! Rising Sun gives me a chance to learn and grow every day, and working here has changed what I pay attention to and what I see in the world.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
Over the past fifteen years, I’ve worked across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, focusing on workforce and economic development, energy, and environmental justice. Through the Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs program, I worked in a union, in state electoral politics, at a green home developer, and in county government. I’ve held positions in healthcare IT consulting and project management, regional economic development, and at a gas and electric utility. Right before Rising Sun, I developed the nation’s first utility-funded healthy homes and weatherization program for low-income families in Connecticut. I love strategy, new program development and improvement, policy, development, and cross-sector collaboration.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
When I’m not at Rising Sun, I’m playing with my family – my husband, my daughter, and our pug. I love cooking and eating, reading, watching good TV, being outside, and traveling.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
I’d wish for everyone to have the opportunity to be the best version of themselves.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“Do anything, but let it produce joy.”
– Walt Whitman
510-665-1501 ext. 305
Rachel Burns – Office and Sustainability Manager
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I am proud that Rising Sun connects the relationship of environmental and economic challenges to create solutions otherwise not identified as interrelated.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I love the fact that working at Rising Sun enables me to be an environmentalist full time without compromising my beliefs, and to be proud of the work I am helping accomplish. I also love that I am part of an evolving organization focused on helping our planet, our community, and our futures.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I started with Rising Sun’s youth program, CYES, for two summers in high school which enables me to understand the importance and positive effects Rising Sun has on its participants. From there, I earned my Environmental Studies degree from San Francisco State University, which provides me with the foundation and drive to combat climate change – something Rising Sun works towards every day. My willingness to adapt, learn, and lead adds an element of flexibility, crucial to reaching organizational goals.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
While not at Rising Sun, you can find me watching my siblings play baseball and softball, camping and hiking with friends, and cooking and gardening with my boyfriend.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
If I could grant the world a wish, I would wish that everyone has easy access to affordable, fresh, and healthy food options and that everyone can learn and understand where their food comes from.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
I am inspired and grateful for the idea that taking time to better yourself is not selfish, it is a way for you to more selfless towards those that need your support.
510-665-1501 ext. 312
Travers McNeice – Chief Program Officer & Board Vice President
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
Working at Rising Sun has enabled me to combine my two passions of sustainability and workforce development. Being part of the CYES program has given me the opportunity to help shape the next generation of green leaders, while at the same time providing young people jobs and the skills they need to enter the world of work.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
Inspiring work, amazing people, incredible work culture, and a dog friendly office!
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I grew up on a lion research camp in the Okavango Delta in Botswana, where I developed a strong connection to the environment. My interest in the sciences led me to study biology at UC Santa Barbara, followed by a MSc at Oxford University. Since then I have worked in both the scientific and education fields, and found a perfect synergy of my interests here at Rising Sun.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
Skiing, backpacking, running, and golfing badly.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
Worldwide understanding of our greatest climate challenges, and the resources to tackle them.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
– Nelson Mandela
510-665-1501 ex 304
Wells Brown – Director, Youth Programs
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
Rising Sun’s mission and vision gives me a very real sense of accomplishment and joy. Knowing that my work is creating opportunities and avenues in which individuals can empower themselves and create the change they want to see in themselves and their community is highly rewarding.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I love that working for Rising Sun means being a part of a community, and not just the community of fantastic colleagues that I call friends. It also means the greater Bay Area community. From Solano to San Joaquin counties, I feel as though I have a better understanding of the struggles, the successes, and the pride of these communities have. I love that.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
Given that I have made my way through one of Rising Sun’s many pathways to success, starting as a temporary Summer Program Manager and working to the full time Senior Program Manager position, I bring an “in the field” eye and vision to all my work projects.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
When I am not at Rising Sun you can find me doing just about anything in the mountains. Whether it is climbing, fly fishing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, you name it…. I am an avid outdoorsman and I love spending time in nature.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
I would solve the climate crisis currently facing the world. I believe it is the single most critical issue, and it needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
Being an avid outdoorsman I feel as though I would be remiss if I didn’t choose a John Muir quote….. “The mountains are calling, and I must go”
510-665-1501 ext. 306
Justina Caras – Marketing and Community Engagement Manager
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I appreciate that Rising Sun’s work is equitable, impacting different age groups and people of backgrounds. Our organization has a model that can be recognized in disadvantaged communities to give meaningful jobs, allowing members of the communities to be economically sustainable and gain useful knowledge.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I deeply appreciate the sense of community amongst all staff. Here we are a family of diverse backgrounds, working together to positively impact our communities.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
My experience here is a great model of how Rising Sun provides a chance for employees to grow within the organization. I started off as an outreach intern, became a Summer Outreach Manager and now I’m the Outreach Lead for San Joaquin County.
Also, I am a Stockton native, and since we have a satellite office in Stockton, I’m able to come up with creative ways to outreach to the community I’m from and in which I live.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
When I’m not at Rising Sun, I’m being a complete “foodie”. I love cooking, baking, binge watching cooking shows, and eating!!!!
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
Accessible education to all.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“We rise by lifting others.”
Alejandro Castelan – Senior Program Manager, Youth Programs
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
The empowerment part resonates with me because it touches on the empowerment of individuals. This is done through personal development and the breakdown of barriers. It is my belief that for vulnerable communities to achieve sustainability, we must build upon a commitment of personal responsibility and systems change.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
Rising Sun takes development seriously. This can be seen at every level in our work, from that way we design our program for our participants, performance of staff, and the organization’s strategic change. We always encourage each other to grow.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I have worked for organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of San Francisco and Juma Ventures, implementing programs for High School and College age youth in the areas of education, workforce development, financial literacy, and healthy lifestyles. I been in Youth Development for seven years, working directly with young people who come from a low-income, first generation background, and youth of color.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
I am an art and culture nerd. I explore every museum, concert venue, and festival. I travel frequently to Mexico and do the same there. I volunteer with the Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights as a Spanish interpreter for asylum seekers and child migrants. Other than that, I love reading comic books and hanging out with my cat Little Bear.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
An endless supply of water.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
Suffer now, live the rest of your life like a champ. Sacrifice is important.
510-665-1501 ext. 331
Anthony Samperio – Workforce Development Manager
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
The part about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonate with me the most is the commitment to empower individuals to achieve economic sustainability for themselves and their communities. I enjoy empowering people to take control of their own lives and I think building someone up to be economically sustainable goes a long way for their generational living.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I love interacting with our GETS participants and watching their growth from their initial interviews through one year of job placement. Something else I enjoy is the friendliness of everyone in the organization.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
Prior to coming to Rising Sun, I worked in a variety of different roles for different labor unions. My experience with the Los Angeles/Orange County Building Trade is also something I’m hoping to lean on as we place our GETS Graduates into apprenticeships within the different construction unions.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
When I’m not at Rising Sun you can find me digging through crates at your local record store. You can find me at Lake Merritt, running or under a tree reading a book. I also enjoy cooking, traveling, and finding new experiences to add to my storybook.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
If I could grant the world one wish it would be the end of the Prison Industrial Complex
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“In Lak’ech Ala K’in”
– Mayan Philosophy.
510-665-1501 ext. 341
Darren Kumar – Senior Regional Manager, Youth Programs
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I value that Rising Sun helps build opportunities for people living in challenging communities. I also admire how actively Rising Sun works to adhere to its mission and vision.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I can truly say coming to work feels like I’m working with my family. The culture of a safe space and friendly people makes my work very exciting every day.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and am currently continuing my education to obtain a Master’s Degree in Public Administration at California State University Stanislaus. I came to Rising Sun with over 10 years of experience working in the non-profit sector, catered to youth intervention programs.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
I enjoy spending my free time traveling, with family, and cheering on my favorite sports teams. Go Chargers and Warriors!
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
I wish the world could provide endless employment opportunities to
everyone and anyone that wants to work!
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“When you think positive good things happen”
Alex Sisk – Development and Communications Associate
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
I appreciate the cross-sector nature of our work, that we connect leaders from varying backgrounds and organizations to confront the Gordian knot of issues encountered in pursuit of environmental and economic justice.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I appreciate that Rising Sun is never stagnant. Among the staff and particularly the participants, there is a feeling of hovering on the cusp of something momentous, where change and choice are imminently possible.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I began volunteering with environmental stewardship organizations at a young age. While studying economics and environmental policy at Harvard, I worked with peers to consult for early-stage green start-ups in Boston. Later I joined the federal government in San Francisco, facilitating a fellowship program and assisting environmental sustainability projects. Having previously contributed to Rising Sun as a Summer Program Manager, I recently succeeded to my current role.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
Outside Rising Sun, I can generally be found hiking, baking, reading, or lolling about museums.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
The capability and willingness to truly consider other individuals’ perspectives, however far removed from our own.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“Drawing on my fine command of the English language, I said nothing.”
– Robert Benchley
510-665-1501 ext. 322
Savannah Blide – Climate Corps Fellow
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
Rising Sun is working towards a future where environmental sustainability and community economic empowerment can go hand and hand, creating a system that works for people and the planet. This organization is walking the walk and actively creating pathways for people to enter the green economy, with direct and measurable impact.
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
I’m new to Rising Sun, but so far I love how everyone is engaged and supportive of each others work, which illustrates just how passionate and committed they are to Rising Sun’s success. I also love how kind everyone is and that there is usually at least one dog in the office!
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I received my B.S. in environmental science and public policy from UC Berkeley in 2019, and am experienced in outreach and environmental education. I started out working as a community organizer for a small environmental advocacy nonprofit in my hometown and now bring that community-oriented lens to all of my work and research.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
You can find me climbing, skiing, and backpacking all over California from the coast to the Sierra. I could also be learning to surf, going to concerts, or having my friends over for dinner!
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
I would wish for a world where everyone felt full love and empathy for all people.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“And now that you don’t have to be perfect, you can be good”
– Steinbeck
510-665-1501 ext. 321
Paul Carp
Director of Research, GreenBiz Group
Paul leads research activities for GreenBiz Group with a focus on sustainability and clean technology initiatives. For the past 15 years, Paul has deployed energy efficiency, renewable energy and smart grid technologies working for Pacific Gas & Electric, US Department of Energy, Honeywell International and FirstFuel Software. Prior to that, Paul served in the Peace Corps in West Africa and worked as a staff member for House Leader Nancy Pelosi. Paul has a BA from the University of Michigan, an MBA from the Presidio Graduate School and lives in Oakland with his wife and two kids.
Moiz Kapadia, Member
Principal Product Manager, Opower
Moiz Kapadia has a wide range of experience in sustainability: architectural engineering at Arup, Peace Corps service in Panama, product management at Autodesk and international development consulting for the USTDA. These experiences have enabled him to deliver sustainability projects for communities, businesses and governments. Moiz has an MS in Engineering from Stanford University and participated in Ignite Program for Entrepreneurship at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Moiz is fluent in Spanish and speaks native Gujarati. In his free time he enjoys backpacking in Yosemite National Park, traveling, taking improv classes and reading. He is excited to work with Bay Area adults and youth at Rising Sun to prosper from clean energy jobs and education.
Erin Lewellen
Chief Operating Officer, Global Citizen Year
As Chief Operating Officer, Erin is responsible for executing the vision and strategy of Global Citizen Year in partnership with the Senior Leadership Team and the Board of Directors.Prior to joining Global Citizen Year, Erin served as VP of School Partnerships for Revolution Foods where she led the expansion of Revolution Foods from 5 schools to over 1,200 nationwide. Prior to Revolution Foods, she served as the Bay Area Director for Playworks. Erin was instrumental in expanding this small, Bay Area organization into one that now partners with over 350 public schools nationwide. For the past 17 years, she has served as the Head Varsity Coach of the girls’ basketball team at Emery High School and for 9 years, Board Chair for Oakland Leaf, a non-profit dedicated to empowering Oakland youth in their search for social justice.Previously, Erin worked for NICRO Women’s Support Centre in South Africa developing and implementing policy that worked to prevent gender-based violence in major school districts.Erin holds a B.A. from the Robert D. Clark Honors College at the University of Oregon.
Favorite quote:
It always seems impossible until it’s done. Nelson Mandela
Jodi Pincus
Founder & Principal, Pincus Consulting; Former Executive Director, Rising Sun
Jodi is well versed in the green economy, youth employment frameworks, and workforce development. She developed innovative green training and employment models during her time at Rising Sun that are held as exemplars in both the national and international community. She participated in several policy groups, conferences, taskforces, and has been featured in the media, where she shared her expertise on how environmental investments can create green careers for people from underserved communities while improving environmental quality for everyone.
Jodi holds a Green MBA from the Presidio Graduate School, a BA in Peace and Conflicts studies from UC Berkeley, and is trained in the resiliency framework that has informed all of her work. She has a commitment to social, racial, and environmental justice that is informed by being born in Apartheid South Africa. Her connection to the environment and understanding that our survival is dependent on how we walk on the earth is steeped in her early years living on a Native American Reservation and spending her summers at a Jewish camp in Yosemite.
Favorite quote:
“A Nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but it’s lowest ones.”
-Nelson Mandela
Jason Gumataotao, Member
Membership Development Representative Alameda County, IBEW Local Union 595
Jason has 17 years of experience as a Union Electrician. In 2006 he successfully completed his 5 year apprenticeship and earned a California State Certification for General Electricians. While in the electrical construction industry he has performed work as a Journeyman, Foreman and General Foreman. He has worked with teams of electricians building projects throughout Alameda County. From the Terra Scale Simulation Facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory to the Solar Energy Research Center at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and into commercial scale Photovoltaic projects including Lincoln Unified School District in Stockton and Moreland School District in San Jose. After 14 years his journey shifted from leadership on the job site to leadership in his Local Union. As an Organizer and Business Representative he carries on the practice of his mentors by working to lift all those in the electrical industry to a higher standard of living.
Dan Carrington, Treasurer
Managing Director, Communications, Media and Technology, Accenture
Dan is a Managing Director in Accenture’s Management Consulting practice. With nearly 20 years of experience in consulting, Dan has lead several large-scale enterprise transformation programs for Fortune 100 clients in the high-tech industry. During this time, he has collaborated with executive sponsors and program leadership across his clients’ Business and IT organizations to define and deliver cross functional transformational solutions. As part of Accenture’s Corporate Citizenship program, focused on improving the way the world works and lives in local communities, Dan is the Executive Sponsor for the Rising Sun – Accenture relationship.
Dan graduated with a BA in Organizational Studies from the University of California at Davis and serves as the Accenture Recruiting Lead at UC Davis.
Walker Wright
Energy Policy and Strategy, VP of Policy- Green Charge Networks & ENGIE Strategy Group Director
Walker Wright currently represents Green Charge, an ENGIE Company, as VP of Public Policy where he is shaping a regulatory and legislative plan for the Bay Area based energy storage leader. Additionally, since July 2016 Walker has been a Strategy Group Director for ENGIE- the largest Independent Power Producer (IPP) in the world- currently executing its transition towards renewable energy and a smarter grid of the future. Walker provides the Group with insight on market strategy. Previously Walker served as Senior Director of Public Policy for Sunrun, America’s largest dedicated home solar company where he worked to help state markets attain long-term rooftop solar growth via legislative, regulatory and public opinion outcomes. Walker also served as public spokesperson for The Alliance for Solar Choice, providing radio, television, print interviews and statements related to key policy discussions. Over the years Walker has testified in numerous regulatory and legislative hearings and he holds leadership and board positions within industry trade associations. Prior to joining the renewable energy space in California, Walker focused on policy and business development for Petra Systems, the New Jersey based utility and smart grid solutions provider. Walker holds a AB from Princeton University and an Msc from The London School of Economics and Political Sciences.
Tyi Johnson, Board Chair
Tyi joined the Board in 2015. She graduated from the second Berkeley cohort of Rising Sun’s Green Energy Training Services (GETS) program, and is the first program alumnus to serve on the Board. She is a program administrator at Community Energy Services Corporation, SmartLights, and an energy assessor for the Alameda County Green Business Program. She previously served as a crew member and office assistant for Rising Sun Energy Services, the organization’s social enterprise.
Eduardo Marroquin, Member
Student, UC Merced
My name is Eduardo Marroquin, and I am a senior at UC Merced. I am majoring in Political Science with the goal of eventually going to law school and becoming a lawyer. I am also interested in pursuing work in education, which I plan on going to graduate school for. I am also passionate about nature and the environment, which is why I want to pursue work in this industry. My love for this work began when I first worked with Rising Sun as an Energy Specialist. This then drove me to apply as a Summer Program Manager and continue my work with the organization for over two years. I loved the work I did as a SPM. I learned many things through my work with Rising Sun; I learned about the many threats to the environment, I learned about sustainability, equity, social justice and most importantly, I learned about people.
Kathy de Jong, Member
Labor Relations Manager, Bay Area SMACNA
Kathy de Jong is the Labor Relations Manager for the Bay Area Chapter of SMACNA, a construction association for the sheet metal/HVAC industry. She is a trustee on the Sheet Metal Workers’ 104 Pension Trust and for the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) and is involved on numerous committees focusing on apprentice development and the continuous improvement of the JATC program. Working with a mentor and champion, Kathy has been able to pilot a successful Women in Construction group to foster more diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Kathy came to the construction industry through her background as an executive coach and facilitator where she trained for numerous construction firms and Fortune 500 companies on topics such as conflict resolution, performance management, and influence.
In her previous role at PG&E, Kathy was responsible for the onboarding training for all new leaders. In addition to her learning and development expertise, Kathy’s Human Resource background includes leadership roles in recruiting and career development. She has a MA in Organizational Management and Development from Fielding Graduate University and a BA in Public Policy from California State University, Sacramento. In her spare time, Kathy enjoys reading, hiking and looking for ways to be a better coach to her three adult children.
Melissa Koenigsberg
Community Leader
Melissa relocated to the Bay Area from Washington, DC, in 2012 after serving four years in the Obama Administration as the Chief of Staff to the Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks at the Department of the Interior. She has extensive policy and administration experience at the federal level, notably in the area of conservation. During her tenure at the Department of the Interior, she worked closely with the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and she served as the Secretary of the Interior’s representative on the Federal Advisory Committee for the 21st Century Conservation Services Corps. Furthermore, she was actively involved in the launch and implementation of President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors initiative, and worked closely with the White House on that effort. She remains passionate about providing more resources and opportunities to engage youth in environmental conservation and the outdoors. Prior to her service at Interior, Melissa spent eight years as a senior campaign and political fundraiser. Some of her roles included acting as the Chief Financial Officer and Finance Director for the Denver Host Committee for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, Finance Director for Martin O’Malley’s successful campaign for Governor of Maryland, and Finance Director for Ken Salazar’s successful campaign for United States Senator. She has a strong record of delivering successful campaign finance and fundraising goals for numerous U.S. Senate, Presidential and Gubernatorial Campaigns. Melissa is a graduate of the University of Michigan. She resides with her son and husband in San Francisco.
Jennifer Martinez, Member
Partner, Hanson Bridgett
Jennifer represents private and public employers in federal and state court litigation and before administrative agencies regarding discrimination (including race, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, and disability), harassment, retaliation, breach of contract, wrongful termination, and numerous other types of employment law matters. Jennifer also handles complex wage and hour class action litigation (including off-the-clock claims, meal and rest period violations, exempt misclassification, and contractor misclassification) in both federal and state courts, as well as other representative and collective actions under the California Private Attorneys General Act and the federal Fair Labor Standards Act. Within the past year, Jennifer second chaired a state court jury trial, obtaining a complete defense verdict for her client on a claim of disability discrimination and failure to accommodate.
In addition to her litigation practice, Jennifer counsels employers on a wide variety of employment issues, such as hiring practices, employment policies, disability accommodations and leave administration, employee and contractor classification issues, employment contracts, enforceability of covenants not to compete, leaves of absence, terminations, and reductions in force. She specializes, in particular, in advising start-ups, early stage companies, and technology companies. In addition to general advice and counseling, Jennifer handles sensitive harassment and whistleblower investigations.
Jennifer also has considerable merger and acquisition experience, assisting clients in structuring corporate transactions to minimize employment-related risks and maximize the value of the transaction from an employment perspective. Jennifer assists clients with post-transaction issues as well, including integration, policy compliance, employee leveling, and restructuring.
Prior to joining Hanson Bridgett, Jennifer practiced in the employment litigation and employee mobility practices at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati in Palo Alto.
Phil Miller, Member
Senior Director of Finance and Administration, Camp Tawonga
Phil Miller is the Senior Director of Finance and Administration with Camp Tawonga, where he leads the organization’s operating and capital budgets, investments, endowment portfolio, and financial systems and initiatives. He is also responsible for Tawonga’s human resources and administrative systems. Phil sits on Tawonga’s Senior Management Team and is the staff lead of the Finance, Audit, and Financial Aid Committees. Phil is also a Rising Sun staff alum! He worked at Rising Sun from 2015-2019, serving as the Director of Operations and Interim Co-Executive. He has over 15 years of experience in the non-profit and public education sectors. Phil holds a bachelor’s degree from UC San Diego, a master’s degree in education from UC Berkeley, and an MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California. Phil is excited to rejoin Rising Sun and support the organization’s outstanding mission. Outside of work, Phil enjoys spending time with his wife, Sonya, daughters Nayezca, Adayah, and Yaelah, and their dog Reggie. Phil lives in Berkeley, enjoys playing sports, loves the Oakland A’s, hates kale, and is in dogged pursuit of the perfect burrito.
Mel Parker, MD; Member
TPMG Medical Director of Risk & Patient Safety, Kaiser Permanente
Melanie Parker, MD grew up in Newark, New Jersey and attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, graduating with a degree in biomechanical engineering. She received her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia and completed her Urology residency at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, NY. Upon completion of residency in 1993, she moved to Stockton, CA to work for The Permanente Medical Group. As a Kaiser Permanente physician, she has served as the Central Valley Chief of the Department of Urology, Assistant Physician in Chief for Risk, and since 2016 has served as the TPMG Regional Medical Director for Risk and Patient Safety, developing strategy for the Risk and Patient Safety Program. This has allowed her to enjoy the excitement of spending time in the city of Oakland, while continuing to practice Urology part-time in the Central Valley. Mel has a passion for community service, and is a member of The Stockton Chapter of The Links, Inc., and the Progressive Community Church in Stockton, where she serves on the Children’s Church Ministry. In her spare time, she enjoys running, travel (when not sheltering in place), and spending time with her husband and two adult children.
Zach Franklin, Secretary
Chief Strategy Officer, GRID Alternatives
Juanita Douglas – Construction Instructor and Business Liaison, Adult Programs
- What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you?
- What do you love about working at Rising Sun?
The students seeing them come in and when they finish and achieve what they went after.
- What expertise, skills, and experience do you bring to the organization?
I worked 30+ years in the field as a carpenter first and then as a Surveyor, it was all on the job training. I did not do well in college because I hated it, but yet I was able to make a great living and raise my son alone. With a very good retirement package and now I can give back.
- When you’re not at Rising Sun, what can we find you doing?
I’m bowling or hanging out with my Granddaughter. And I read a lot, mostly mysteries.
- If you could grant the world a wish, what would it be?
To not have any hungry are abused children in the world.
- What is a quote or an idea that inspires you?
“You can’t understand someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.”
– Author unknown
510-665-1501 ext. 344
Lisa Schmidt
President & CEO, Home Energy Analytics
Lisa and her husband, Steve founded Home Energy Analytics in 2008, first because we wanted to reduce our utility bill but it has become our way to help address 2 issues we’ve become passionate about climate change and economic inequity. HEA developed software, Smart Audit to reduce residential energy use. Smart Audit is now the cornerstone of pay-for-performance energy reduction programs offered by 3 California utilities. We believe Smart Audit can be the basis for a new kind of energy reduction service that is cost effective and creates new employment opportunities. Lisa has 2 grown children who are working hard to make the world a better place, and she couldn’t be more proud of them.
Laurie Bernstein
Laurie spent her the first 15 years of her career in the for-profit retail industry working for a variety of retailers and rising to the level of VP Retail Operations for Sephora before moving to the nonprofit sector. She spent the next six years at Goodwill San Francisco in roles ranging from Director Training & Development to Senior Program Manager. In 2011, she joined Community Housing Partnership as Director Workforce Development & Social Enterprise where she grew a social enterprise to annual sales of over $3m. She is currently working as both a Consultant and Interim Director in the nonprofit sector with a number of local organizations. Laurie holds an MBA in Sustainable Management from Presidio Graduate School and a BA from Washington University in St Louis.