CAHSD
OUR LEADERSHIP
CAHSD
OUR LEADERSHIP
Working to expand and promote the organization, the California High School Democrats Executive Board is made up of an elected state Chair and Vice Chair along with members appointed at the Chair's discretion.
Working to expand and promote the organization, the California High School Democrats Executive Board is made up of an elected state Chair and Vice Chair along with members appointed at the Chair's discretion.
Working to expand and promote the organization, the California High School Democrats Executive Board is made up of an elected state Chair and Vice Chair along with members appointed at the Chair's discretion.
GEORGE BALAN
STATEWIDE CHAIR
George Balan (gbalan@cahsdems.org), a senior at Miramonte High School, serves as Chair of the California High School Democrats. Based in the Bay Area, George previously served as Finance Director and has since begun his second term as Chair. Appointed to the California Department of Education’s LGBTQ+ Task Force last year, George has worked consistently to uplift traditionally underrepresented voices. Aside from his political advocacy, George has achieved recognition as a State Finalist in Congressional Debate, a Stanford Finalist in Extemporaneous Speech, and as a three-time National Tournament Qualifier. George is enthusiastic about driving meaningful change within the California High School Democrats and is committed to building the next generation of advocates.
GEORGE BALAN
STATEWIDE CHAIR
George Balan (gbalan@cahsdems.org), a senior at Miramonte High School, serves as Chair of the California High School Democrats. Based in the Bay Area, George previously served as Finance Director and has since begun his second term as Chair. Appointed to the California Department of Education’s LGBTQ+ Task Force last year, George has worked consistently to uplift traditionally underrepresented voices. Aside from his political advocacy, George has achieved recognition as a State Finalist in Congressional Debate, a Stanford Finalist in Extemporaneous Speech, and as a three-time National Tournament Qualifier. George is enthusiastic about driving meaningful change within the California High School Democrats and is committed to building the next generation of advocates.
GEORGE BALAN
STATEWIDE CHAIR
George Balan (gbalan@cahsdems.org), a senior at Miramonte High School, serves as Chair of the California High School Democrats. Based in the Bay Area, George previously served as Finance Director and has since begun his second term as Chair. Appointed to the California Department of Education’s LGBTQ+ Task Force last year, George has worked consistently to uplift traditionally underrepresented voices. Aside from his political advocacy, George has achieved recognition as a State Finalist in Congressional Debate, a Stanford Finalist in Extemporaneous Speech, and as a three-time National Tournament Qualifier. George is enthusiastic about driving meaningful change within the California High School Democrats and is committed to building the next generation of advocates.
JONAH D'ALESSIO
CHIEF OF STAFF
Jonah d’Alessio (jdalessio@cahsdems.org) is the Chief of Staff for the California High School Democrats. He is a junior at the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences. Jonah has been active in politics from a very young age, including starting a federal PAC at age 9. Since then, he has worked for Konstantine Anthony’s LA County Supervisor campaign, George Whitesides’ congressional campaign, as the Finance Director for CAHSD, and been a regular volunteer on over a dozen races from the local to national levels. Additionally, Jonah serves on the board of Tzedakah Teens, a teen philanthropic organization. He is most passionate about climate change, protecting democracy, and reproductive rights. At CAHSD, he is hoping to mobilize as many young voters as possible to win elections. Outside of politics, Jonah loves baseball, coding, cross country running, and seals.
JONAH D'ALESSIO
CHIEF OF STAFF
Jonah d’Alessio (jdalessio@cahsdems.org) is the Chief of Staff for the California High School Democrats. He is a junior at the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences. Jonah has been active in politics from a very young age, including starting a federal PAC at age 9. Since then, he has worked for Konstantine Anthony’s LA County Supervisor campaign, George Whitesides’ congressional campaign, as the Finance Director for CAHSD, and been a regular volunteer on over a dozen races from the local to national levels. Additionally, Jonah serves on the board of Tzedakah Teens, a teen philanthropic organization. He is most passionate about climate change, protecting democracy, and reproductive rights. At CAHSD, he is hoping to mobilize as many young voters as possible to win elections. Outside of politics, Jonah loves baseball, coding, cross country running, and seals.
JONAH D'ALESSIO
CHIEF OF STAFF
Jonah d’Alessio (jdalessio@cahsdems.org) is the Chief of Staff for the California High School Democrats. He is a junior at the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences. Jonah has been active in politics from a very young age, including starting a federal PAC at age 9. Since then, he has worked for Konstantine Anthony’s LA County Supervisor campaign, George Whitesides’ congressional campaign, as the Finance Director for CAHSD, and been a regular volunteer on over a dozen races from the local to national levels. Additionally, Jonah serves on the board of Tzedakah Teens, a teen philanthropic organization. He is most passionate about climate change, protecting democracy, and reproductive rights. At CAHSD, he is hoping to mobilize as many young voters as possible to win elections. Outside of politics, Jonah loves baseball, coding, cross country running, and seals.
CARMEN LIMON
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Carmen Limon (climon@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Chino High School and serves as Communications Director for the California High School Democrats. A first-generation American and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, Carmen is passionate about using storytelling and digital media to uplift marginalized voices and expand access to civic engagement. She also serves as Communications Director for Region 11 of the California Association of Student Councils and is actively involved in her school’s magnet program student government. Outside of politics, Carmen is the Art & Graphics Editor of her school’s yearbook, president of a community-based pet shelter volunteering club, and a dancer in her school’s folklorico group, where she celebrates her heritage through cultural expression. She also serves as Communications Chair of Congresswoman Norma J. Torres’ Youth Advisory Council, where she works to elevate youth perspectives and document the council's year. As Communications Director, Carmen hopes to help CAHSD reach and mobilize more high school students across California through informative, impactful, and accessible content.
CARMEN LIMON
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Carmen Limon (climon@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Chino High School and serves as Communications Director for the California High School Democrats. A first-generation American and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, Carmen is passionate about using storytelling and digital media to uplift marginalized voices and expand access to civic engagement. She also serves as Communications Director for Region 11 of the California Association of Student Councils and is actively involved in her school’s magnet program student government. Outside of politics, Carmen is the Art & Graphics Editor of her school’s yearbook, president of a community-based pet shelter volunteering club, and a dancer in her school’s folklorico group, where she celebrates her heritage through cultural expression. She also serves as Communications Chair of Congresswoman Norma J. Torres’ Youth Advisory Council, where she works to elevate youth perspectives and document the council's year. As Communications Director, Carmen hopes to help CAHSD reach and mobilize more high school students across California through informative, impactful, and accessible content.
CARMEN LIMON
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Carmen Limon (climon@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Chino High School and serves as Communications Director for the California High School Democrats. A first-generation American and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, Carmen is passionate about using storytelling and digital media to uplift marginalized voices and expand access to civic engagement. She also serves as Communications Director for Region 11 of the California Association of Student Councils and is actively involved in her school’s magnet program student government. Outside of politics, Carmen is the Art & Graphics Editor of her school’s yearbook, president of a community-based pet shelter volunteering club, and a dancer in her school’s folklorico group, where she celebrates her heritage through cultural expression. She also serves as Communications Chair of Congresswoman Norma J. Torres’ Youth Advisory Council, where she works to elevate youth perspectives and document the council's year. As Communications Director, Carmen hopes to help CAHSD reach and mobilize more high school students across California through informative, impactful, and accessible content.
HELEN HU
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Helen Hu (helhu0916@gmail.com) is a rising senior at Mission San Jose High School, passionate about public service and advocating for gender justice. She is especially interested in public health, women’s health, policy, and advocacy, fields where she hopes to help build systems that are more accessible and representative of all communities. She serves as President of her school’s Women in STEM Club, where she leads initiatives to empower young women and foster equity in traditionally male-dominated spaces. As Co-President of her school’s LEO Club, she organizes student-driven service projects supporting her local community. Helen is also President of her school’s Mock Trial team and leads the Student Government Community Outreach Committee, where she has developed a deep appreciation for legal advocacy, honed her public speaking and critical thinking skills, and worked to amplify student voices on campus. These experiences have equipped her with leadership and grassroots organizing skills that inspire her to advance political change. Beyond advocacy, Helen loves studying at cafes, listening to music, and binge-watching shows! She is excited to serve as Communications Director and combine her creativity with purpose to grow CAHSD!
HELEN HU
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Helen Hu (helhu0916@gmail.com) is a rising senior at Mission San Jose High School, passionate about public service and advocating for gender justice. She is especially interested in public health, women’s health, policy, and advocacy, fields where she hopes to help build systems that are more accessible and representative of all communities. She serves as President of her school’s Women in STEM Club, where she leads initiatives to empower young women and foster equity in traditionally male-dominated spaces. As Co-President of her school’s LEO Club, she organizes student-driven service projects supporting her local community. Helen is also President of her school’s Mock Trial team and leads the Student Government Community Outreach Committee, where she has developed a deep appreciation for legal advocacy, honed her public speaking and critical thinking skills, and worked to amplify student voices on campus. These experiences have equipped her with leadership and grassroots organizing skills that inspire her to advance political change. Beyond advocacy, Helen loves studying at cafes, listening to music, and binge-watching shows! She is excited to serve as Communications Director and combine her creativity with purpose to grow CAHSD!
HELEN HU
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Helen Hu (helhu0916@gmail.com) is a rising senior at Mission San Jose High School, passionate about public service and advocating for gender justice. She is especially interested in public health, women’s health, policy, and advocacy, fields where she hopes to help build systems that are more accessible and representative of all communities. She serves as President of her school’s Women in STEM Club, where she leads initiatives to empower young women and foster equity in traditionally male-dominated spaces. As Co-President of her school’s LEO Club, she organizes student-driven service projects supporting her local community. Helen is also President of her school’s Mock Trial team and leads the Student Government Community Outreach Committee, where she has developed a deep appreciation for legal advocacy, honed her public speaking and critical thinking skills, and worked to amplify student voices on campus. These experiences have equipped her with leadership and grassroots organizing skills that inspire her to advance political change. Beyond advocacy, Helen loves studying at cafes, listening to music, and binge-watching shows! She is excited to serve as Communications Director and combine her creativity with purpose to grow CAHSD!
EURI KIM
POLICY DIRECTOR
Euri Kim (ekim@cahsdems.org), a junior at Arnold O. Beckman High School, is a student advocate dedicated to building systems that work for—and with—young people. She serves as the Director of Government on a Local Level for the California Association of Student Councils, designing a statewide fellowship for student board members, funded by a grant from the California Department of Education. She has presented to the State Board of Education, spoken before the Assembly Committee on Education, and testified for several bills championing access to higher education. As Policy Director for Coalition PAC, she’s running 26BY2026, a campaign across 26 California cities to further labor justice. She also serves as California State Lead at New Voters, a national nonprofit that has registered over 100,000 students to vote in all 50 states. Euri leads outreach efforts in California and helped author a proposal for the Maryland Governor’s Office to establish a state-wide civic engagement award. In the spring, she interned at IGNITE National, a movement of young women building political power, and is slated to intern this fall for Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris, where she’ll contribute to on-the-ground legislative efforts. A 2025 National YoungArts Awardee in Writing, she loves spending her free time creatively—writing, hanging out with friends, and cafe-hopping. Euri is incredibly excited to contribute her efforts to CAHSD and to build the future we all want to see!
EURI KIM
POLICY DIRECTOR
Euri Kim (ekim@cahsdems.org), a junior at Arnold O. Beckman High School, is a student advocate dedicated to building systems that work for—and with—young people. She serves as the Director of Government on a Local Level for the California Association of Student Councils, designing a statewide fellowship for student board members, funded by a grant from the California Department of Education. She has presented to the State Board of Education, spoken before the Assembly Committee on Education, and testified for several bills championing access to higher education. As Policy Director for Coalition PAC, she’s running 26BY2026, a campaign across 26 California cities to further labor justice. She also serves as California State Lead at New Voters, a national nonprofit that has registered over 100,000 students to vote in all 50 states. Euri leads outreach efforts in California and helped author a proposal for the Maryland Governor’s Office to establish a state-wide civic engagement award. In the spring, she interned at IGNITE National, a movement of young women building political power, and is slated to intern this fall for Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris, where she’ll contribute to on-the-ground legislative efforts. A 2025 National YoungArts Awardee in Writing, she loves spending her free time creatively—writing, hanging out with friends, and cafe-hopping. Euri is incredibly excited to contribute her efforts to CAHSD and to build the future we all want to see!
EURI KIM
POLICY DIRECTOR
Euri Kim (ekim@cahsdems.org), a junior at Arnold O. Beckman High School, is a student advocate dedicated to building systems that work for—and with—young people. She serves as the Director of Government on a Local Level for the California Association of Student Councils, designing a statewide fellowship for student board members, funded by a grant from the California Department of Education. She has presented to the State Board of Education, spoken before the Assembly Committee on Education, and testified for several bills championing access to higher education. As Policy Director for Coalition PAC, she’s running 26BY2026, a campaign across 26 California cities to further labor justice. She also serves as California State Lead at New Voters, a national nonprofit that has registered over 100,000 students to vote in all 50 states. Euri leads outreach efforts in California and helped author a proposal for the Maryland Governor’s Office to establish a state-wide civic engagement award. In the spring, she interned at IGNITE National, a movement of young women building political power, and is slated to intern this fall for Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris, where she’ll contribute to on-the-ground legislative efforts. A 2025 National YoungArts Awardee in Writing, she loves spending her free time creatively—writing, hanging out with friends, and cafe-hopping. Euri is incredibly excited to contribute her efforts to CAHSD and to build the future we all want to see!
MADDY CHANG
DEPUTY POLICY DIRECTOR
Maddy Chang (mchang@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Lynbrook High School and excited to serve on CAHSD’s Executive Board. She currently interns for Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, where she supports legislative research and youth outreach. Maddy has led teams of 40+ interns on local campaigns, and her passion for policy shows through her work on city advisory councils and founding a literacy program across her district’s elementary schools. As a Sustainability Commissioner for the City of Sunnyvale, she also leads local climate projects and student engagement efforts. Maddy is thrilled to keep pushing for change at CAHSD!
MADDY CHANG
DEPUTY POLICY DIRECTOR
Maddy Chang (mchang@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Lynbrook High School and excited to serve on CAHSD’s Executive Board. She currently interns for Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, where she supports legislative research and youth outreach. Maddy has led teams of 40+ interns on local campaigns, and her passion for policy shows through her work on city advisory councils and founding a literacy program across her district’s elementary schools. As a Sustainability Commissioner for the City of Sunnyvale, she also leads local climate projects and student engagement efforts. Maddy is thrilled to keep pushing for change at CAHSD!
MADDY CHANG
DEPUTY POLICY DIRECTOR
Maddy Chang (mchang@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Lynbrook High School and excited to serve on CAHSD’s Executive Board. She currently interns for Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, where she supports legislative research and youth outreach. Maddy has led teams of 40+ interns on local campaigns, and her passion for policy shows through her work on city advisory councils and founding a literacy program across her district’s elementary schools. As a Sustainability Commissioner for the City of Sunnyvale, she also leads local climate projects and student engagement efforts. Maddy is thrilled to keep pushing for change at CAHSD!
ANIKA KHANNA
POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Anika Khanna is a sophomore at Lynbrook High School in San José, CA. She’s passionate about youth engagement in democratic politics and grassroots organizing. On a local level, she served on the San Jose District 1 youth advisory council, organizing events and drafting a work plan to serve the youth of her community. Within HSDA, she’s previously been involved in AANHPI, Women’s, and First Generation Caucuses, organizing programming, partnerships, and initiatives to create space for youth with traditionally marginalized identities. She continues this kind of work within Bridge to Pride, where she works to improve access to resources for LGBTQ+ youth across the nation. This year, she aims to mobilize CAHSD membership for the 2026 midterms, state assembly, and state senate races. In her free time, she does archery, learns languages, and drinks boba.
ANIKA KHANNA
POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Anika Khanna is a sophomore at Lynbrook High School in San José, CA. She’s passionate about youth engagement in democratic politics and grassroots organizing. On a local level, she served on the San Jose District 1 youth advisory council, organizing events and drafting a work plan to serve the youth of her community. Within HSDA, she’s previously been involved in AANHPI, Women’s, and First Generation Caucuses, organizing programming, partnerships, and initiatives to create space for youth with traditionally marginalized identities. She continues this kind of work within Bridge to Pride, where she works to improve access to resources for LGBTQ+ youth across the nation. This year, she aims to mobilize CAHSD membership for the 2026 midterms, state assembly, and state senate races. In her free time, she does archery, learns languages, and drinks boba.
ANIKA KHANNA
POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Anika Khanna is a sophomore at Lynbrook High School in San José, CA. She’s passionate about youth engagement in democratic politics and grassroots organizing. On a local level, she served on the San Jose District 1 youth advisory council, organizing events and drafting a work plan to serve the youth of her community. Within HSDA, she’s previously been involved in AANHPI, Women’s, and First Generation Caucuses, organizing programming, partnerships, and initiatives to create space for youth with traditionally marginalized identities. She continues this kind of work within Bridge to Pride, where she works to improve access to resources for LGBTQ+ youth across the nation. This year, she aims to mobilize CAHSD membership for the 2026 midterms, state assembly, and state senate races. In her free time, she does archery, learns languages, and drinks boba.
SHRAVYA NADAGOWDA
DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Shravya Nadagowda is a current freshman attending Evergreen Valley High School in San Jose. She is passionate about advocacy of policy, promoting campaigns and youth membership, and creative/informative writing through promotion. Outside of CAHSD, Shravya serves as a member of the District 8 Youth Council Committee for the 2025-2026 term and is part of the Research Committee for Hunger at Home Youth Council, where environmental policy and food insecurity are discussed. Additionally, she is part of the Youth in Law Model Congress Team as an international volunteer for training delegates and preparing conferences, hosted in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Shravya is dedicated as a community changemaker for the Bay Area, with her work on SIREN immigration for the summer of 2025, and South Bay Youth Changemakers Critical Connections. She coordinates event preparation through volunteering with the San Jose Public Library while practicing compromise and diplomacy through leadership, facing challenges head-on, and she interned for a campaign internship with Gabby-Chavez Lopez. As Deputy Political Director, Shravy will prioritize the California High School Democrats and fulfill their mission and goals set by the director. In her free time, Shravya enjoys poetry, advancing in western and classical music, as well as hanging out with her friends and collaborating with her fellow peers. She is thrilled to serve on the executive board for the upcoming year.
SHRAVYA NADAGOWDA
DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Shravya Nadagowda is a current freshman attending Evergreen Valley High School in San Jose. She is passionate about advocacy of policy, promoting campaigns and youth membership, and creative/informative writing through promotion. Outside of CAHSD, Shravya serves as a member of the District 8 Youth Council Committee for the 2025-2026 term and is part of the Research Committee for Hunger at Home Youth Council, where environmental policy and food insecurity are discussed. Additionally, she is part of the Youth in Law Model Congress Team as an international volunteer for training delegates and preparing conferences, hosted in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Shravya is dedicated as a community changemaker for the Bay Area, with her work on SIREN immigration for the summer of 2025, and South Bay Youth Changemakers Critical Connections. She coordinates event preparation through volunteering with the San Jose Public Library while practicing compromise and diplomacy through leadership, facing challenges head-on, and she interned for a campaign internship with Gabby-Chavez Lopez. As Deputy Political Director, Shravy will prioritize the California High School Democrats and fulfill their mission and goals set by the director. In her free time, Shravya enjoys poetry, advancing in western and classical music, as well as hanging out with her friends and collaborating with her fellow peers. She is thrilled to serve on the executive board for the upcoming year.
SHRAVYA NADAGOWDA
DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Shravya Nadagowda is a current freshman attending Evergreen Valley High School in San Jose. She is passionate about advocacy of policy, promoting campaigns and youth membership, and creative/informative writing through promotion. Outside of CAHSD, Shravya serves as a member of the District 8 Youth Council Committee for the 2025-2026 term and is part of the Research Committee for Hunger at Home Youth Council, where environmental policy and food insecurity are discussed. Additionally, she is part of the Youth in Law Model Congress Team as an international volunteer for training delegates and preparing conferences, hosted in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Shravya is dedicated as a community changemaker for the Bay Area, with her work on SIREN immigration for the summer of 2025, and South Bay Youth Changemakers Critical Connections. She coordinates event preparation through volunteering with the San Jose Public Library while practicing compromise and diplomacy through leadership, facing challenges head-on, and she interned for a campaign internship with Gabby-Chavez Lopez. As Deputy Political Director, Shravy will prioritize the California High School Democrats and fulfill their mission and goals set by the director. In her free time, Shravya enjoys poetry, advancing in western and classical music, as well as hanging out with her friends and collaborating with her fellow peers. She is thrilled to serve on the executive board for the upcoming year.
DELILAH YEN
LOCAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
Delilah Yen (dyen@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Granada Hills Charter and is excited to be this year's Local Affairs Director for the California High School Democrats! In school, Delilah is a competitor in Congressional Debate and Model United Nations where she researches both global and national issues and advocates for meaningful solutions. More specifically, Delilah is passionate about immigration rights, reproductive freedoms, civic engagement, and racial representation and equity. She expresses her passion for these topics through organizations such as UNA-USA and the Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods. In her free time, Delilah enjoys drawing, hanging out with friends, and listening to Laufey. Delilah is excited to help youth take action and raise their voices through CAHSD!
DELILAH YEN
LOCAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
Delilah Yen (dyen@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Granada Hills Charter and is excited to be this year's Local Affairs Director for the California High School Democrats! In school, Delilah is a competitor in Congressional Debate and Model United Nations where she researches both global and national issues and advocates for meaningful solutions. More specifically, Delilah is passionate about immigration rights, reproductive freedoms, civic engagement, and racial representation and equity. She expresses her passion for these topics through organizations such as UNA-USA and the Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods. In her free time, Delilah enjoys drawing, hanging out with friends, and listening to Laufey. Delilah is excited to help youth take action and raise their voices through CAHSD!
DELILAH YEN
LOCAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
Delilah Yen (dyen@cahsdems.org) is a junior at Granada Hills Charter and is excited to be this year's Local Affairs Director for the California High School Democrats! In school, Delilah is a competitor in Congressional Debate and Model United Nations where she researches both global and national issues and advocates for meaningful solutions. More specifically, Delilah is passionate about immigration rights, reproductive freedoms, civic engagement, and racial representation and equity. She expresses her passion for these topics through organizations such as UNA-USA and the Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods. In her free time, Delilah enjoys drawing, hanging out with friends, and listening to Laufey. Delilah is excited to help youth take action and raise their voices through CAHSD!
JAKE MUNZAA
FINANCE DIRECTOR
Jake Munzaa (jmunzaa@cahsdems.org) is the Finance Director for the California High School Democrats and a senior at Vista Murrieta High School. He channels his passion for civic engagement into driving change that expands outreach and advances youth advocacy statewide. Witnessing America’s tumultuous past five years ignited his commitment to protecting democratic institutions and championing student rights. As Finance Director, Jake is excited to get to work this year as he manages fundraising initiatives, oversees budget planning, and ensures financial transparency to support youth-led advocacy across California. Outside of CAHSD, he serves as the inaugural National Vice President of Advocacy for the National Student Council (NASC), where he spearheads nationwide efforts to amplify student voices and promote civic engagement. Additionally, as Southern Regional Director of the California Association of Student Leaders (CASL), Jake helps plan statewide conferences and develop leadership resources for student councils throughout California. Jake’s dedication to advocacy is evident across his roles in local Youth Court, his school’s Associated Student Body (ASB) , and youth advisory council. His work is driven by a belief in the power of students to build a better future and his determination to amplify their voices. Outside of advocacy, Jake competes in track and field, makes 10-hour playlists that he will only listen to once, and loves to travel (ask him where he has been!).
JAKE MUNZAA
FINANCE DIRECTOR
Jake Munzaa (jmunzaa@cahsdems.org) is the Finance Director for the California High School Democrats and a senior at Vista Murrieta High School. He channels his passion for civic engagement into driving change that expands outreach and advances youth advocacy statewide. Witnessing America’s tumultuous past five years ignited his commitment to protecting democratic institutions and championing student rights. As Finance Director, Jake is excited to get to work this year as he manages fundraising initiatives, oversees budget planning, and ensures financial transparency to support youth-led advocacy across California. Outside of CAHSD, he serves as the inaugural National Vice President of Advocacy for the National Student Council (NASC), where he spearheads nationwide efforts to amplify student voices and promote civic engagement. Additionally, as Southern Regional Director of the California Association of Student Leaders (CASL), Jake helps plan statewide conferences and develop leadership resources for student councils throughout California. Jake’s dedication to advocacy is evident across his roles in local Youth Court, his school’s Associated Student Body (ASB) , and youth advisory council. His work is driven by a belief in the power of students to build a better future and his determination to amplify their voices. Outside of advocacy, Jake competes in track and field, makes 10-hour playlists that he will only listen to once, and loves to travel (ask him where he has been!).
JAKE MUNZAA
FINANCE DIRECTOR
Jake Munzaa (jmunzaa@cahsdems.org) is the Finance Director for the California High School Democrats and a senior at Vista Murrieta High School. He channels his passion for civic engagement into driving change that expands outreach and advances youth advocacy statewide. Witnessing America’s tumultuous past five years ignited his commitment to protecting democratic institutions and championing student rights. As Finance Director, Jake is excited to get to work this year as he manages fundraising initiatives, oversees budget planning, and ensures financial transparency to support youth-led advocacy across California. Outside of CAHSD, he serves as the inaugural National Vice President of Advocacy for the National Student Council (NASC), where he spearheads nationwide efforts to amplify student voices and promote civic engagement. Additionally, as Southern Regional Director of the California Association of Student Leaders (CASL), Jake helps plan statewide conferences and develop leadership resources for student councils throughout California. Jake’s dedication to advocacy is evident across his roles in local Youth Court, his school’s Associated Student Body (ASB) , and youth advisory council. His work is driven by a belief in the power of students to build a better future and his determination to amplify their voices. Outside of advocacy, Jake competes in track and field, makes 10-hour playlists that he will only listen to once, and loves to travel (ask him where he has been!).
OUR ADULT ADVISORY BOARD
OUR ADULT ADVISORY BOARD
The Executive Board of the California High School Democrats is assisted by an Adult Advisory board. Together, they work to expand and promote the organization while ensuring that all CAHSD chapters and members are connected with opportunities to grow their political involvement.
The Executive Board of the California High School Democrats is assisted by an Adult Advisory board. Together, they work to expand and promote the organization while ensuring that all CAHSD chapters and members are connected with opportunities to grow their political involvement.
SHAY FRANCO-CLAUSEN
The honorable Shay Franco-Clausen is a fierce and dynamic powerhouse, who advocates tirelessly to empower, educate and prepare women of color to take their rightful seat at the decision-making table. Overcoming many adversaries and barriers growing up in San Jose, Shay engages her community with empathy and diligence. Serving on many boards and commissions, she brings her “first-person” experience in creating stronger, comprehensive legislation benefiting the marginalized communities that she has proudly risen from. Just this last year, Shay was instrumental in three legislation wins; passing Senate Bill 273, Authored Senator Susan Rubio, “Expanding the Statute of Limitations on felony Domestic Violence”, protecting 1,000 acres of California's most threatened pieces of land in Coyote Valley, passing Proposition 17 to restore voting rights of those on parole and currently working to remove involuntary servitude from the State Constitution.Shay is elected to the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, is the West Coast Regional Program Director for IGNITE National, elected Santa Clara County Democratic Delegate, former Director of Gender and Equity for the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee, former Chair of Santa Clara County Commission on the Status of Women, former Corresponding Secretary for the CDP Black Caucus and former Chair of the Justice and Advocacy Committee. Shay is also a loving mother of five children with her wife Yolanda and a Bay Area DJ. “I am just trying to be the Women I wished I would have met at 14,” Shay says is the impetus to her advocacy.
SHAY FRANCO-CLAUSEN
The honorable Shay Franco-Clausen is a fierce and dynamic powerhouse, who advocates tirelessly to empower, educate and prepare women of color to take their rightful seat at the decision-making table. Overcoming many adversaries and barriers growing up in San Jose, Shay engages her community with empathy and diligence. Serving on many boards and commissions, she brings her “first-person” experience in creating stronger, comprehensive legislation benefiting the marginalized communities that she has proudly risen from. Just this last year, Shay was instrumental in three legislation wins; passing Senate Bill 273, Authored Senator Susan Rubio, “Expanding the Statute of Limitations on felony Domestic Violence”, protecting 1,000 acres of California's most threatened pieces of land in Coyote Valley, passing Proposition 17 to restore voting rights of those on parole and currently working to remove involuntary servitude from the State Constitution.Shay is elected to the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, is the West Coast Regional Program Director for IGNITE National, elected Santa Clara County Democratic Delegate, former Director of Gender and Equity for the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee, former Chair of Santa Clara County Commission on the Status of Women, former Corresponding Secretary for the CDP Black Caucus and former Chair of the Justice and Advocacy Committee. Shay is also a loving mother of five children with her wife Yolanda and a Bay Area DJ. “I am just trying to be the Women I wished I would have met at 14,” Shay says is the impetus to her advocacy.
SHAY FRANCO-CLAUSEN
The honorable Shay Franco-Clausen is a fierce and dynamic powerhouse, who advocates tirelessly to empower, educate and prepare women of color to take their rightful seat at the decision-making table. Overcoming many adversaries and barriers growing up in San Jose, Shay engages her community with empathy and diligence. Serving on many boards and commissions, she brings her “first-person” experience in creating stronger, comprehensive legislation benefiting the marginalized communities that she has proudly risen from. Just this last year, Shay was instrumental in three legislation wins; passing Senate Bill 273, Authored Senator Susan Rubio, “Expanding the Statute of Limitations on felony Domestic Violence”, protecting 1,000 acres of California's most threatened pieces of land in Coyote Valley, passing Proposition 17 to restore voting rights of those on parole and currently working to remove involuntary servitude from the State Constitution.Shay is elected to the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, is the West Coast Regional Program Director for IGNITE National, elected Santa Clara County Democratic Delegate, former Director of Gender and Equity for the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee, former Chair of Santa Clara County Commission on the Status of Women, former Corresponding Secretary for the CDP Black Caucus and former Chair of the Justice and Advocacy Committee. Shay is also a loving mother of five children with her wife Yolanda and a Bay Area DJ. “I am just trying to be the Women I wished I would have met at 14,” Shay says is the impetus to her advocacy.
JORDAN ELDRIDGE
Jordan Eldridge has been in the political arena since serving on the Foothill De Anza Community College District Board of Trustees as the Student Trustee from De Anza College in 2007-2008. Jordan’s political career was launched with his involvement in the Silicon Valley Young Democrats and California Young Democrats, organizations that have been credited as being the launching pad for many Democratic elected officials and government affairs professionals across California. Jordan has worked on dozens of campaigns and has legislative experience having worked for two California State Assemblymembers and a State Representative in Massachusetts. After Jordan received his Master of Public Administration degree from Northeastern University in 2015, he worked for the Santa Clara Valley Water District in Local and Regional Government Relations; has worked as a labor organizer; represents the Santa Clara County Democratic Party on the Executive Board of the California Democratic Party; and is a Local Board Member of the United States Selective Service System. He served on the governing board of the Rancho Rinconada Recreation and Park District from 2010-2013 and was appointed to fill a vacancy on the same board in 2019. Jordan Eldridge founded Eldridge Political Partners LLC in December 2018 – a political consulting firm specializing in campaign finance; campaign management and general political consulting; and public policy and advocacy work. He is excited to be a member of the Adult Advisory Board of the California High School Democrats!
JORDAN ELDRIDGE
Jordan Eldridge has been in the political arena since serving on the Foothill De Anza Community College District Board of Trustees as the Student Trustee from De Anza College in 2007-2008. Jordan’s political career was launched with his involvement in the Silicon Valley Young Democrats and California Young Democrats, organizations that have been credited as being the launching pad for many Democratic elected officials and government affairs professionals across California. Jordan has worked on dozens of campaigns and has legislative experience having worked for two California State Assemblymembers and a State Representative in Massachusetts. After Jordan received his Master of Public Administration degree from Northeastern University in 2015, he worked for the Santa Clara Valley Water District in Local and Regional Government Relations; has worked as a labor organizer; represents the Santa Clara County Democratic Party on the Executive Board of the California Democratic Party; and is a Local Board Member of the United States Selective Service System. He served on the governing board of the Rancho Rinconada Recreation and Park District from 2010-2013 and was appointed to fill a vacancy on the same board in 2019. Jordan Eldridge founded Eldridge Political Partners LLC in December 2018 – a political consulting firm specializing in campaign finance; campaign management and general political consulting; and public policy and advocacy work. He is excited to be a member of the Adult Advisory Board of the California High School Democrats!
JORDAN ELDRIDGE
Jordan Eldridge has been in the political arena since serving on the Foothill De Anza Community College District Board of Trustees as the Student Trustee from De Anza College in 2007-2008. Jordan’s political career was launched with his involvement in the Silicon Valley Young Democrats and California Young Democrats, organizations that have been credited as being the launching pad for many Democratic elected officials and government affairs professionals across California. Jordan has worked on dozens of campaigns and has legislative experience having worked for two California State Assemblymembers and a State Representative in Massachusetts. After Jordan received his Master of Public Administration degree from Northeastern University in 2015, he worked for the Santa Clara Valley Water District in Local and Regional Government Relations; has worked as a labor organizer; represents the Santa Clara County Democratic Party on the Executive Board of the California Democratic Party; and is a Local Board Member of the United States Selective Service System. He served on the governing board of the Rancho Rinconada Recreation and Park District from 2010-2013 and was appointed to fill a vacancy on the same board in 2019. Jordan Eldridge founded Eldridge Political Partners LLC in December 2018 – a political consulting firm specializing in campaign finance; campaign management and general political consulting; and public policy and advocacy work. He is excited to be a member of the Adult Advisory Board of the California High School Democrats!
Please feel free to email any member of the Executive Board if you have any questions or suggestions.
Please feel free to email any member of the Executive Board if you have any questions or suggestions.
Please feel free to email any member of the Executive Board if you have any questions or suggestions.