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
STATE CHAIR (HE/HIM)
George Balan (gbalan@cahsdems.org), a junior at Miramonte High School, serves as Chair of the California High School Democrats. Based in the Bay Area, George previously served as Finance Director where he worked to build a strong financial foundation for CAHSD. Being appointed to the California Department of Education’s LGBTQ+ Task Force earlier this year, George strives to uplift traditionally underrepresented voices. Aside from his political advocacy, George has achieved recognition as a State Finalist in Congressional Debate and two-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
STATE CHAIR (HE/HIM)
George Balan (gbalan@cahsdems.org), a junior at Miramonte High School, serves as Chair of the California High School Democrats. Based in the Bay Area, George previously served as Finance Director where he worked to build a strong financial foundation for CAHSD. Being appointed to the California Department of Education’s LGBTQ+ Task Force earlier this year, George strives to uplift traditionally underrepresented voices. Aside from his political advocacy, George has achieved recognition as a State Finalist in Congressional Debate and two-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
STATE CHAIR (HE/HIM)
George Balan (gbalan@cahsdems.org), a junior at Miramonte High School, serves as Chair of the California High School Democrats. Based in the Bay Area, George previously served as Finance Director where he worked to build a strong financial foundation for CAHSD. Being appointed to the California Department of Education’s LGBTQ+ Task Force earlier this year, George strives to uplift traditionally underrepresented voices. Aside from his political advocacy, George has achieved recognition as a State Finalist in Congressional Debate and two-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.
PEARL HSIEH
VICE CHAIR (SHE/HER)
Pearl Hsieh (phsieh@cahsdems.org) is the Vice Chair of the California High School Democrats, where she channels her passion for voter education, gun control, racial justice, and reproductive rights. Before joining the CAHSD Executive Board, Pearl interned for Alhambra Mayor Sasha Renée Pérez’s campaign for State Senate District 25, where she canvassed, captured event photos, and phone banked. She also volunteers with Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley and joined Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California to lobby for reproductive rights and healthcare legislation. Outside of her political work, Pearl enjoys debating, listening to Noah Kahan, and exploring new foods.
PEARL HSIEH
VICE CHAIR (SHE/HER)
Pearl Hsieh (phsieh@cahsdems.org) is the Vice Chair of the California High School Democrats, where she channels her passion for voter education, gun control, racial justice, and reproductive rights. Before joining the CAHSD Executive Board, Pearl interned for Alhambra Mayor Sasha Renée Pérez’s campaign for State Senate District 25, where she canvassed, captured event photos, and phone banked. She also volunteers with Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley and joined Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California to lobby for reproductive rights and healthcare legislation. Outside of her political work, Pearl enjoys debating, listening to Noah Kahan, and exploring new foods.
PEARL HSIEH
VICE CHAIR (SHE/HER)
Pearl Hsieh (phsieh@cahsdems.org) is the Vice Chair of the California High School Democrats, where she channels her passion for voter education, gun control, racial justice, and reproductive rights. Before joining the CAHSD Executive Board, Pearl interned for Alhambra Mayor Sasha Renée Pérez’s campaign for State Senate District 25, where she canvassed, captured event photos, and phone banked. She also volunteers with Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley and joined Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California to lobby for reproductive rights and healthcare legislation. Outside of her political work, Pearl enjoys debating, listening to Noah Kahan, and exploring new foods.
SATORI AWUMA
CHIEF OF STAFF
Satori Awuma (sawuma@cahsdems.org) serves as the Chief of Staff of the California High School Democrats. She is a senior at Alhambra High School where she is deeply involved in her school’s community, pushing for a positive student atmosphere through her work in ASB and various on-campus clubs. She stays engaged in her local community through internships and volunteer work around the city, where she most recently campaigned for Sasha Renée Pérez in her race for State Senate. Satori is passionate about equitable education, identity equality, environmental justice, and affordable living for all. Satori understands the importance of youth advocacy and engaging community voices to shape the future of society. In her personal life, she enjoys playing music, practicing tennis, and hanging out with friends. Satori is eager to continue pushing for impactful change on the CAHSD Board this term and to ensure that every voice is heard within CAHSD and across California!
SATORI AWUMA
CHIEF OF STAFF
Satori Awuma (sawuma@cahsdems.org) serves as the Chief of Staff of the California High School Democrats. She is a senior at Alhambra High School where she is deeply involved in her school’s community, pushing for a positive student atmosphere through her work in ASB and various on-campus clubs. She stays engaged in her local community through internships and volunteer work around the city, where she most recently campaigned for Sasha Renée Pérez in her race for State Senate. Satori is passionate about equitable education, identity equality, environmental justice, and affordable living for all. Satori understands the importance of youth advocacy and engaging community voices to shape the future of society. In her personal life, she enjoys playing music, practicing tennis, and hanging out with friends. Satori is eager to continue pushing for impactful change on the CAHSD Board this term and to ensure that every voice is heard within CAHSD and across California!
SATORI AWUMA
CHIEF OF STAFF
Satori Awuma (sawuma@cahsdems.org) serves as the Chief of Staff of the California High School Democrats. She is a senior at Alhambra High School where she is deeply involved in her school’s community, pushing for a positive student atmosphere through her work in ASB and various on-campus clubs. She stays engaged in her local community through internships and volunteer work around the city, where she most recently campaigned for Sasha Renée Pérez in her race for State Senate. Satori is passionate about equitable education, identity equality, environmental justice, and affordable living for all. Satori understands the importance of youth advocacy and engaging community voices to shape the future of society. In her personal life, she enjoys playing music, practicing tennis, and hanging out with friends. Satori is eager to continue pushing for impactful change on the CAHSD Board this term and to ensure that every voice is heard within CAHSD and across California!
GABRIELLE BEYER
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Gabrielle Beyer (gbeyer@cahsdems.org) is a rising senior at Tamalpais High School with a passion for law and justice. As an active member of her school's mock trial team, Gabrielle has had the privilege of competing nationally, honing her skills in legal argumentation and advocacy. She also leads "Pen to Politician," a school club dedicated to encouraging youth participation in democratic processes through a letter-writing campaign. Outside of school, Gabrielle is committed to voter engagement across California, co-running the "Future Voters Unite!" campaign and interning for the League of Women Voters in her region. In her free time, Gabrielle enjoys drawing, spending time with friends and dog outside, and listening to music. Gabrielle is so excited about continuing her efforts to inspire change and serving as CAHSD's communications director!
GABRIELLE BEYER
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Gabrielle Beyer (gbeyer@cahsdems.org) is a rising senior at Tamalpais High School with a passion for law and justice. As an active member of her school's mock trial team, Gabrielle has had the privilege of competing nationally, honing her skills in legal argumentation and advocacy. She also leads "Pen to Politician," a school club dedicated to encouraging youth participation in democratic processes through a letter-writing campaign. Outside of school, Gabrielle is committed to voter engagement across California, co-running the "Future Voters Unite!" campaign and interning for the League of Women Voters in her region. In her free time, Gabrielle enjoys drawing, spending time with friends and dog outside, and listening to music. Gabrielle is so excited about continuing her efforts to inspire change and serving as CAHSD's communications director!
GABRIELLE BEYER
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Gabrielle Beyer (gbeyer@cahsdems.org) is a rising senior at Tamalpais High School with a passion for law and justice. As an active member of her school's mock trial team, Gabrielle has had the privilege of competing nationally, honing her skills in legal argumentation and advocacy. She also leads "Pen to Politician," a school club dedicated to encouraging youth participation in democratic processes through a letter-writing campaign. Outside of school, Gabrielle is committed to voter engagement across California, co-running the "Future Voters Unite!" campaign and interning for the League of Women Voters in her region. In her free time, Gabrielle enjoys drawing, spending time with friends and dog outside, and listening to music. Gabrielle is so excited about continuing her efforts to inspire change and serving as CAHSD's communications director!
SOPHENE AVEDISSIAN
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Sophene Avedissian (sophene.avedissian@gmail.com) serves as Press Communications Director for California High School Democrats. Sophene is a junior from Los Angeles and is thrilled to serve on the CAHSD Executive Board for her second year. Sophene’s love of writing sparked her passion for politics. As a contributor to her school’s newspaper and other online publications, she enjoys writing about political issues and events from a youth lens. Along with writing, Sophene is passionate about advocacy and serves as a cohort member of the ACLU of Southern California’s Youth Liberty Squad, where she advocates for issues affecting California youth such as school-based mental health and art access in schools. In her free time, Sophene loves playing soccer, baking, and volunteering in her community. Sophene is excited to continue growing and strengthening CAHSD this term.
SOPHENE AVEDISSIAN
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Sophene Avedissian (sophene.avedissian@gmail.com) serves as Press Communications Director for California High School Democrats. Sophene is a junior from Los Angeles and is thrilled to serve on the CAHSD Executive Board for her second year. Sophene’s love of writing sparked her passion for politics. As a contributor to her school’s newspaper and other online publications, she enjoys writing about political issues and events from a youth lens. Along with writing, Sophene is passionate about advocacy and serves as a cohort member of the ACLU of Southern California’s Youth Liberty Squad, where she advocates for issues affecting California youth such as school-based mental health and art access in schools. In her free time, Sophene loves playing soccer, baking, and volunteering in her community. Sophene is excited to continue growing and strengthening CAHSD this term.
SOPHENE AVEDISSIAN
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Sophene Avedissian (sophene.avedissian@gmail.com) serves as Press Communications Director for California High School Democrats. Sophene is a junior from Los Angeles and is thrilled to serve on the CAHSD Executive Board for her second year. Sophene’s love of writing sparked her passion for politics. As a contributor to her school’s newspaper and other online publications, she enjoys writing about political issues and events from a youth lens. Along with writing, Sophene is passionate about advocacy and serves as a cohort member of the ACLU of Southern California’s Youth Liberty Squad, where she advocates for issues affecting California youth such as school-based mental health and art access in schools. In her free time, Sophene loves playing soccer, baking, and volunteering in her community. Sophene is excited to continue growing and strengthening CAHSD this term.
CARMEN LIMON
DEPUTY COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Carmen Limon (climon@cahsdems.org) is the Deputy Communications Director for the California High School Democrats. A student at Chino High School in San Bernardino County, Carmen is passionate about blending her love for the arts and politics in her work. She is actively involved in the California Association of Student Councils (CASC), serves on Congresswoman Norma J. Torres' Youth Advisory Committee, and contributes to her school’s yearbook and leadership programs. Beyond advocacy, Carmen enjoys writing, origami, public speaking, and engaging with her community. She is excited to continue her advocacy journey and is eager to strengthen and expand the impact of the California High School Democrats this term.
CARMEN LIMON
DEPUTY COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Carmen Limon (climon@cahsdems.org) is the Deputy Communications Director for the California High School Democrats. A student at Chino High School in San Bernardino County, Carmen is passionate about blending her love for the arts and politics in her work. She is actively involved in the California Association of Student Councils (CASC), serves on Congresswoman Norma J. Torres' Youth Advisory Committee, and contributes to her school’s yearbook and leadership programs. Beyond advocacy, Carmen enjoys writing, origami, public speaking, and engaging with her community. She is excited to continue her advocacy journey and is eager to strengthen and expand the impact of the California High School Democrats this term.
CARMEN LIMON
DEPUTY COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Carmen Limon (climon@cahsdems.org) is the Deputy Communications Director for the California High School Democrats. A student at Chino High School in San Bernardino County, Carmen is passionate about blending her love for the arts and politics in her work. She is actively involved in the California Association of Student Councils (CASC), serves on Congresswoman Norma J. Torres' Youth Advisory Committee, and contributes to her school’s yearbook and leadership programs. Beyond advocacy, Carmen enjoys writing, origami, public speaking, and engaging with her community. She is excited to continue her advocacy journey and is eager to strengthen and expand the impact of the California High School Democrats this term.
ALLISON CHO
POLICY DIRECTOR
Allison Cho (allisoncho25@gmail.com), a senior at John A. Rowland High School, epitomizes a blend of empathy and determination in her activism, aiming to empower communities through policy solutions. Her advocacy efforts are evident in her founding role of YouthForEarth, a coalition dedicated to promoting environmental literacy and sustainability. As the ASB President of her school and SoCal JSA Speaker of the Assembly, Allison prioritizes fostering a positive student environment and advocating for equitable opportunities for all. Her experience as a district intern for Assemblymember Lisa Calderon and Senator Archuleta underscores her commitment to public service. Currently serving as the Policy Director at What We All Deserve, Allison has introduced four impactful policies this year alone, further demonstrating her dedication to effecting meaningful change at both local and state levels. In her free time she loves going to cafe runs and the beach with friends. Allison looks forward to this upcoming year and is proud to serve along CAHSD’s Executive Board.
ALLISON CHO
POLICY DIRECTOR
Allison Cho (allisoncho25@gmail.com), a senior at John A. Rowland High School, epitomizes a blend of empathy and determination in her activism, aiming to empower communities through policy solutions. Her advocacy efforts are evident in her founding role of YouthForEarth, a coalition dedicated to promoting environmental literacy and sustainability. As the ASB President of her school and SoCal JSA Speaker of the Assembly, Allison prioritizes fostering a positive student environment and advocating for equitable opportunities for all. Her experience as a district intern for Assemblymember Lisa Calderon and Senator Archuleta underscores her commitment to public service. Currently serving as the Policy Director at What We All Deserve, Allison has introduced four impactful policies this year alone, further demonstrating her dedication to effecting meaningful change at both local and state levels. In her free time she loves going to cafe runs and the beach with friends. Allison looks forward to this upcoming year and is proud to serve along CAHSD’s Executive Board.
ALLISON CHO
POLICY DIRECTOR
Allison Cho (allisoncho25@gmail.com), a senior at John A. Rowland High School, epitomizes a blend of empathy and determination in her activism, aiming to empower communities through policy solutions. Her advocacy efforts are evident in her founding role of YouthForEarth, a coalition dedicated to promoting environmental literacy and sustainability. As the ASB President of her school and SoCal JSA Speaker of the Assembly, Allison prioritizes fostering a positive student environment and advocating for equitable opportunities for all. Her experience as a district intern for Assemblymember Lisa Calderon and Senator Archuleta underscores her commitment to public service. Currently serving as the Policy Director at What We All Deserve, Allison has introduced four impactful policies this year alone, further demonstrating her dedication to effecting meaningful change at both local and state levels. In her free time she loves going to cafe runs and the beach with friends. Allison looks forward to this upcoming year and is proud to serve along CAHSD’s Executive Board.
EMILY LIN
DEPUTY POLICY DIRECTOR
Emily Lin (go.emily.lin@gmail.com) is beyond excited to serve as the Deputy Policy Director for California High School Democrats! Emily is a sophomore at The Castilleja School. She is highly involved in student gov (having served as the MS Student Body President and Freshman Class Vice President), and her experience on other school boards such as the DEIJ Council has added many unique perspectives to her leadership experience. Her passion for politics isn’t just contained in school walls - Emily also interns for her city Mayor and holds numerous positions at other organizations, most recently founding the Cali chapter of the largest student-run 501c in the national debate circuit. She is highly active in the Congressional Debate national circuit, traveling around every month to compete. But when she’s not arguing about carbon taxes at nationals, you can see her arguing about geofence warrants as the prosecution’s pretrial attorney in Mock Trial, sailing around the San Fran Bay, playing tennis or lacrosse with her school team, or going for late night runs around town. Emily can’t wait to continue advocating for change with CAHSD.
EMILY LIN
DEPUTY POLICY DIRECTOR
Emily Lin (go.emily.lin@gmail.com) is beyond excited to serve as the Deputy Policy Director for California High School Democrats! Emily is a sophomore at The Castilleja School. She is highly involved in student gov (having served as the MS Student Body President and Freshman Class Vice President), and her experience on other school boards such as the DEIJ Council has added many unique perspectives to her leadership experience. Her passion for politics isn’t just contained in school walls - Emily also interns for her city Mayor and holds numerous positions at other organizations, most recently founding the Cali chapter of the largest student-run 501c in the national debate circuit. She is highly active in the Congressional Debate national circuit, traveling around every month to compete. But when she’s not arguing about carbon taxes at nationals, you can see her arguing about geofence warrants as the prosecution’s pretrial attorney in Mock Trial, sailing around the San Fran Bay, playing tennis or lacrosse with her school team, or going for late night runs around town. Emily can’t wait to continue advocating for change with CAHSD.
EMILY LIN
DEPUTY POLICY DIRECTOR
Emily Lin (go.emily.lin@gmail.com) is beyond excited to serve as the Deputy Policy Director for California High School Democrats! Emily is a sophomore at The Castilleja School. She is highly involved in student gov (having served as the MS Student Body President and Freshman Class Vice President), and her experience on other school boards such as the DEIJ Council has added many unique perspectives to her leadership experience. Her passion for politics isn’t just contained in school walls - Emily also interns for her city Mayor and holds numerous positions at other organizations, most recently founding the Cali chapter of the largest student-run 501c in the national debate circuit. She is highly active in the Congressional Debate national circuit, traveling around every month to compete. But when she’s not arguing about carbon taxes at nationals, you can see her arguing about geofence warrants as the prosecution’s pretrial attorney in Mock Trial, sailing around the San Fran Bay, playing tennis or lacrosse with her school team, or going for late night runs around town. Emily can’t wait to continue advocating for change with CAHSD.
ROHIN PRASHANTH
POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Rohin Prashanth (rprashanth@cahsdems.org) is a senior at Mountain House High School, in Mountain House, California. He serves as the Political Director for the California High School Democrats. Rohin stays involved in his community and in politics through various capacities. Prior to serving as Political Director, he served as CAHSD's Regional Director for the North Valley. In this position, his advocacy work was centered in local politics and organizing where he supported the campaigns of multiple State Assembly and Senate races, expanded CAHSD, and spearheaded voter promotion efforts in rural areas. Outside of politics, Rohin still focuses on the importance of youth civic engagement as he is his school's Speech and Debate President, and the founder of Vernian, a nonprofit organization that combats the decline in opportunity for the youth in the areas of political engagement and social entrepreneurship. In his spare time, Rohin enjoys spending time with friends, reading, and playing pool. Rohin is excited to help grow CAHSD and serve as part of its executive board!
ROHIN PRASHANTH
POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Rohin Prashanth (rprashanth@cahsdems.org) is a senior at Mountain House High School, in Mountain House, California. He serves as the Political Director for the California High School Democrats. Rohin stays involved in his community and in politics through various capacities. Prior to serving as Political Director, he served as CAHSD's Regional Director for the North Valley. In this position, his advocacy work was centered in local politics and organizing where he supported the campaigns of multiple State Assembly and Senate races, expanded CAHSD, and spearheaded voter promotion efforts in rural areas. Outside of politics, Rohin still focuses on the importance of youth civic engagement as he is his school's Speech and Debate President, and the founder of Vernian, a nonprofit organization that combats the decline in opportunity for the youth in the areas of political engagement and social entrepreneurship. In his spare time, Rohin enjoys spending time with friends, reading, and playing pool. Rohin is excited to help grow CAHSD and serve as part of its executive board!
ROHIN PRASHANTH
POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Rohin Prashanth (rprashanth@cahsdems.org) is a senior at Mountain House High School, in Mountain House, California. He serves as the Political Director for the California High School Democrats. Rohin stays involved in his community and in politics through various capacities. Prior to serving as Political Director, he served as CAHSD's Regional Director for the North Valley. In this position, his advocacy work was centered in local politics and organizing where he supported the campaigns of multiple State Assembly and Senate races, expanded CAHSD, and spearheaded voter promotion efforts in rural areas. Outside of politics, Rohin still focuses on the importance of youth civic engagement as he is his school's Speech and Debate President, and the founder of Vernian, a nonprofit organization that combats the decline in opportunity for the youth in the areas of political engagement and social entrepreneurship. In his spare time, Rohin enjoys spending time with friends, reading, and playing pool. Rohin is excited to help grow CAHSD and serve as part of its executive board!
KAMILA RIVERA
DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Kamila Rivera (kamila_rivera2008@icloud.com) is a current junior attending Troy High School in Fullerton. She is passionate about educational reform, advocating for reproductive rights, and combatting teen involvement in gang violence. Outside of CAHSD, Kamila serves as the Vice Chairwoman for the City of La Habra Youth Committee. Additionally, she is a City Teen Leader, Policy Director at Generation Up, and the Chapter Lead for FJUHSD Diversify Our Narrative. Kamila is dedicated to serving her local community, constantly collaborating with other teens across the city to create projects that have a large scale impact. She is ready to tackle any issue head on, and will not stop until a solution is found. She also understands the importance of amplifying youth voices to ensure our issues, concerns, and opinions are being heard and believes that by uniting, we can ensure the appropriate officials are elected into office this year. As Deputy Political Director, Kamila will prioritize the California High School Democrats and fulfilling their mission. In her free time, Kamila enjoys hanging out with her family and friends, listening to music, as well as cooking & baking. She is excited for this upcoming year and to serve alongside such a wonderful Executive Board.
KAMILA RIVERA
DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Kamila Rivera (kamila_rivera2008@icloud.com) is a current junior attending Troy High School in Fullerton. She is passionate about educational reform, advocating for reproductive rights, and combatting teen involvement in gang violence. Outside of CAHSD, Kamila serves as the Vice Chairwoman for the City of La Habra Youth Committee. Additionally, she is a City Teen Leader, Policy Director at Generation Up, and the Chapter Lead for FJUHSD Diversify Our Narrative. Kamila is dedicated to serving her local community, constantly collaborating with other teens across the city to create projects that have a large scale impact. She is ready to tackle any issue head on, and will not stop until a solution is found. She also understands the importance of amplifying youth voices to ensure our issues, concerns, and opinions are being heard and believes that by uniting, we can ensure the appropriate officials are elected into office this year. As Deputy Political Director, Kamila will prioritize the California High School Democrats and fulfilling their mission. In her free time, Kamila enjoys hanging out with her family and friends, listening to music, as well as cooking & baking. She is excited for this upcoming year and to serve alongside such a wonderful Executive Board.
KAMILA RIVERA
DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR
Kamila Rivera (kamila_rivera2008@icloud.com) is a current junior attending Troy High School in Fullerton. She is passionate about educational reform, advocating for reproductive rights, and combatting teen involvement in gang violence. Outside of CAHSD, Kamila serves as the Vice Chairwoman for the City of La Habra Youth Committee. Additionally, she is a City Teen Leader, Policy Director at Generation Up, and the Chapter Lead for FJUHSD Diversify Our Narrative. Kamila is dedicated to serving her local community, constantly collaborating with other teens across the city to create projects that have a large scale impact. She is ready to tackle any issue head on, and will not stop until a solution is found. She also understands the importance of amplifying youth voices to ensure our issues, concerns, and opinions are being heard and believes that by uniting, we can ensure the appropriate officials are elected into office this year. As Deputy Political Director, Kamila will prioritize the California High School Democrats and fulfilling their mission. In her free time, Kamila enjoys hanging out with her family and friends, listening to music, as well as cooking & baking. She is excited for this upcoming year and to serve alongside such a wonderful Executive Board.
VANESSA EJIKE
LOCAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
Vanessa Ejike (vejike@cahsdems.org) is a junior attending Gretchen Whitney High School in Cerritos, California. She is thrilled to serve as the Local Affairs Director for the California High School Democrats and hopes to be an endless resource for all members! Vanessa is deeply involved in her school, serving on the Executive Board of several clubs on campus, including her school’s Key Club, Small Business Club, National Honor Society, and Black Student Union. During the summer, she interned for Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s District Office. In her free time, she loves listening to music while shamelessly reading fantasy romance books! Vanessa is excited to work with fellow activists across California, especially the Regional Committee, to empower youth to take an active role in shaping the future of their communities.
VANESSA EJIKE
LOCAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
Vanessa Ejike (vejike@cahsdems.org) is a junior attending Gretchen Whitney High School in Cerritos, California. She is thrilled to serve as the Local Affairs Director for the California High School Democrats and hopes to be an endless resource for all members! Vanessa is deeply involved in her school, serving on the Executive Board of several clubs on campus, including her school’s Key Club, Small Business Club, National Honor Society, and Black Student Union. During the summer, she interned for Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s District Office. In her free time, she loves listening to music while shamelessly reading fantasy romance books! Vanessa is excited to work with fellow activists across California, especially the Regional Committee, to empower youth to take an active role in shaping the future of their communities.
VANESSA EJIKE
LOCAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
Vanessa Ejike (vejike@cahsdems.org) is a junior attending Gretchen Whitney High School in Cerritos, California. She is thrilled to serve as the Local Affairs Director for the California High School Democrats and hopes to be an endless resource for all members! Vanessa is deeply involved in her school, serving on the Executive Board of several clubs on campus, including her school’s Key Club, Small Business Club, National Honor Society, and Black Student Union. During the summer, she interned for Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s District Office. In her free time, she loves listening to music while shamelessly reading fantasy romance books! Vanessa is excited to work with fellow activists across California, especially the Regional Committee, to empower youth to take an active role in shaping the future of their communities.
JONAH D'ALESSIO
FINANCE DIRECTOR
Jonah d'Alessio (jdalessio@cahsdems.org) is the Finance Director for the California High School Democrats. He is a sophomore 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, 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, and seals.
JONAH D'ALESSIO
FINANCE DIRECTOR
Jonah d'Alessio (jdalessio@cahsdems.org) is the Finance Director for the California High School Democrats. He is a sophomore 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, 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, and seals.
JONAH D'ALESSIO
FINANCE DIRECTOR
Jonah d'Alessio (jdalessio@cahsdems.org) is the Finance Director for the California High School Democrats. He is a sophomore 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, 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, and seals.
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.
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 (shay@shayfrancoclausen.com) 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 (shay@shayfrancoclausen.com) 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 (shay@shayfrancoclausen.com) 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 (jordan@eldridgepolitical.com) 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 (jordan@eldridgepolitical.com) 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 (jordan@eldridgepolitical.com) 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.
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Paid for by the California High School Democrats PAC. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.
©2024 CAHSD. All rights reserved.
Paid for by the California High School Democrats PAC. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.
©2024 CAHSD. All rights reserved.
Paid for by the California High School Democrats PAC. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.
©2024 CAHSD. All rights reserved.