OUR TEAM

dwalker@bluedfoundation.org Dina Walker is the founder of BLU Educational Foundation, where she currently serves as the President and CEO. In this role, she leads initiatives that expand access to higher education and advance educational and racial justice in California's Inland Empire. She is inspired to do this work because she believes dismantling systemic barriers and enduring that underresourced communities, especially communities of color, have equitable opportunities to succeed. She founded the College Exodus Project, which has helped over 10,000 underrepresented students gain admission, scholarships, and financial aid to colleges nationwide. She holds a B.A. in Education from San Diego State University, and has completed post-baccalaureate studies in Nonprofit Management from the University of Maryland. Outside of her work at BLU, she is a lifelong member of Bethel AME Church in Fontana, an active member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., The Links Inc., and a lifetime member of NCNW and the NAACP.

kkinermon@bluedfoundation.org Kimberly Kinermon is the longtime Operations Manager for BLU Educational Foundation. In this role, she manages BLU's client management systems.

mprince@bluedfoundation.org M'Cheala Prince serves as the Senior College Success Coordinator for BLU Educational Foundation, where she leads a team of College Success Advisors. She has spearheaded significant initiatives, including the College Exodus Project and the College Success Initiative, which focus on providing college access support to underrepresented students. Before assuming her current role, M'Cheala gained valuable experience working as both a College Success Advisor and a College Prep Advisor at BLU. She is passionate about guiding students and their families through the college access journey. She believes that peer-to-peer mentors can provide a meaningful and strong foundation for students' success. As a dedicated servant leader, M'Cheala finds purpose in the act of leadership. She holds a B.A. in English Creative Writing and an M.A. in English and Writing Studies from California State University, San Bernardino. Her passion for serving families inspired her to earn a Master's degree in Educational Counseling and Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential, intending to become a K-12 Counselor. M'Cheala enjoys the art of dance and danced en pointe during high school. She also enjoys cooking and writing poetry. Another hobby she has is party planning and decorating for family and close friends.

ddavis@bluedfoundation.org Devin Davis serves as a Male Involvement College and Career Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. In this role, he guides students towards their educational, professional, and personal goals. His work at BLU allows him to be a force of change in the field of education, both on a local, student-to-student level and on a legislative level. He graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science. He comes from a family of educators who always stressed the importance of K-12 education and the opportunities higher education presents. When he's not working, he loves attending sporting events, going to the movies, playing video games, and video editing.

sjennings@bluedfoundation.org Sheba Jennings serves as a Community Engagement Specialist for BLU Educational Foundation. In this role, she develops student leaders, works as the Retention Team Lead Advisor, and leads BLU's Arts Programming. She loves working at BLU because she wants to create and be connected to something that has a lasting impact. She wants to open more doors of opportunity for youth in the Inland Empire. Sheba is a proud alumna of Hampton University and is currently an MBA student at Clark Atlanta University, where she is deepening her knowledge of entrepreneurship and entertainment management. Outside of work, she finds joy in writing poetry, creating music, attending live music events, traveling, and spending time in good company and fellowship.

olabeaud@bluedfoundation.org Olani LaBeaud serves as the Public Policy Associate at BLU Educational Foundation, where she leads civic engagement programming that empowers Inland Empire residents to influence the policies shaping their lives. A proud alum of BLU's student programming, Olani experienced firsthand the importance of civic education and advocacy, which inspired her return to BLU as a staff member. Drawing from both personal experience, academic training, and a host of skills, she is committed to increasing civic efficacy, expanding community knowledge, and preparing future leaders to raise their voices for equity and change. She earned a B.S. in Political Science with an emphasis in Law & Society and a minor in Africana Studies from California State University, Northridge, in addition to a host of professional certifications. Olani spends her free time enjoying fellowship with loved ones, embarking on unique adventures, and traveling to explore diverse cultures, cuisines, and entertainment.

aibarra@bluedfoundation.org Alondra Ibarra is the Communications Intern at BLU Educational Foundation, where she supports the organization's communication efforts. Her work involves assisting with content creation. What inspires Alondra to work at BLU Educational Foundation is the organization's commitment to supporting communities and promoting higher education. Alondra herself is deeply motivated by educational empowerment, and she is dedicated to contributing to the growth of communities through her role. She holds four associate degrees in Communication, Behavioral Science, and Sociology, and is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Relational and Organizational Communication with a minor in Speech and Language Pathology at California State University, San Bernardino. Outside of her professional life, Alondra enjoys gardening, particularly caring for her succulents, as well as experimenting with new baking recipes and cooking. These hobbies provide a sense of balance and creativity that she brings to her work.

amadrid@bluedfoundation.org Andres Madrid is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. He comes to BLU as a College Corps Volunteer. Andres wanted to volunteer with BLU because his core values align well with the mission of the organization. He enjoys the community, friendliness, and ability to help each other from everyone at BLU. He graduated from Norco College with three associate's degrees in different subjects in only 1.5 years and will be transferring to a California State University this upcoming Fall. Outside of work, he enjoys eating yummy food, spending time with his family, and going to the gym to lift weights or train MMA/BJJ.

wsakyi@bluedfoundation.org Wendybell Sakyi is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. She comes to BLU as a College Corps Volunteer. Wendybell wanted to volunteer with BLU because she'd have the opportunity to support students in achieving their academic and personal goals. She is passionate about creating opportunities that help individuals reach their full potential and strengthen community connections. She currently studies at San Bernardino Valley College. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and exploring new places.

drdanielwalker@gmail.com Dr. Daniel Walker serves as president of Blu Educational Foundation's board. Dr. Walker is a nationally recognized historian, storyteller and social innovation leader. He is also an acclaimed author, filmmaker, and public speaker. Dr. Walker earned his B.A. from San Diego State University, his M.A. from the University of California, Riverside, and his Ph.D in Latin American & African American History from the University of Houston. In 2018, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the Claremont Graduate University for his global contributions to arts, design, and innovation.

rsimpson@bluedfoundation.org Rakayla Simpson serves as Manager of Executive Programs for BLU Educational Foundation, where she leads high-impact initiatives that support youth leadership, civic engagement, and Black-led community organizing throughout the Inland Empire. She is passionate about creating spaces where Black youth and communities can thrive, and is driven by a commitment to equity, cultural preservation, and legacy-building through education, advocacy, and systems change. She has successfully led programs such as SOL Brothers and Soul Sisters Leadership Camp, and the Black Equity Initiative. She also supports leadership training, statewide coalition work, and organizational development for Black-led organizations throughout California. Rakayla holds a degree in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health from Spelman College. Outside of her work at BLU, Rakayla is a creative visionary and "vibe curator," known for her love of music, cultural storytelling, and designing spaces that inspire joy, connection, and collective care.

aallen@bluedfoundation.org Anthony Allen serves as a coordinator for BLU Educational Foundation. His work for the organization focuses on Male involvement programs such as the SOL Brothers Leadership Camp and the King's Next Up listening sessions. He previously served as a College Advisor for BLU.

lgresham@bluedfoundation.org LaTriece Gresham is the Executive Assistant to Dina Walker, supporting Executive Programs such as the Uhuru Education Project, MECCA-IE, the IE Black Women's Collective, and Black Girls UP! She was drawn to work at BLU because of her passion for education and her commitment to ensuring that youth, especially first-generation students, receive the information and opportunities they deserve. LaTriece holds a Master of Education from Arizona State University and takes pride in her work at BLU. In her free time, she enjoys skating, performing spoken word, and spending quality time with her husband and children.

jjones@bluedfoundation.org Jayden Jones serves as a Male Involvement College Advisor for BLU Educational Foundation, where he supports young men of color in preparing for college, careers, and leadership through culturally relevant advising and mentorship. He does this work because he didn't have many role models when pursuing his own postsecondary education, and he wants to empower young men to achieve their goals, follow their dreams, and live fulfilling lives. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Management from California State University, San Bernardino, where he served as President of the Black Student Union and Lead Student Assistant in the Pan African Student Success Center. He is currently pursuing his Master's in Business Administration, also from CSUSB. Outside of work, he is an avid gamer, music lover, and aspiring chef— grounded in faith and deeply committed to his family.

mmetellus@bluedfoundation.org Michael Metellus serves as a College Advisor and Retention Advisor for BLU Educational Foundation. His role at BLU is to assist college students in educational and personal journeys as they navigate what they want their futures to look like. He started this work so that he could pour into students who look like him. As a former BLU student himself, he looks to give the students he works with the same opportunities he was given. He completed his Bachelor's in Social Work, received a yellow belt in Lean Six Sigma project management, and is currently working towards obtaining his MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship and innovation. In his time off, he enjoys reading, running, working out, making clothes, attending community grassroots events, and being outdoors. Family is extremely important to him, and he prides himself on spending as much time with his loved ones as possible.

jbond@bluedfoundation.org Jacklyn Bond is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. She was drawn to BLU for its reputation for growth in the community and teamwork. She was inspired by the opportunity to help others and make a connection. She graduated from Chaffey College with two degrees and is currently pursuing a degree at California State University, San Bernardino She is a proud mother of three, enjoys spending quality time with her family. She has a busy family life, from sports to events, to staying active.

donofre@bluedfoundation.org Dana Onofre-Hernandez is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. She is passionate about helping students realize opportunities available to them and encouraging them to believe they can achieve more than they think is possible. Dana is a first-generation college student at the University of California, Riverside, double-majoring in Psychology and Education. Her future goals include becoming a school psychologist or working directly in school settings to help improve students' educational experiences and outcomes.

othomas@bluedfoundation.org Ocean Thomas is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. She comes to BLU as a College Corps Volunteer. Ocean wanted to volunteer with BLU so that she could help students navigate educational challenges, help them build confidence, and help them find their path. She knows how overwhelming it can be coming out of high school without guidance, and she is passionate about helping students discover opportunities. She currently studies at San Bernardino Valley College. Outside of work, she enjoys going to the gym, hiking, and reading.

accounting@bluedfoundation.org Ronique Chambers serves as the Chief Financial Officer of BLU Educational Foundation, bringing over 15 years of experience in non-profit financial management. She specialized in strategic budget development, grant compliance, and financial forecasting to support the organization's mission. Her passion for community development fuels her commitment to ensuring BLU has the financial stability to expand its vital programs.

djones@bluedfoundation.org Dar'rell Jones serves as the Career Programs Manager for BLU Educational Foundation. In this role, he oversees the organization's career programming and collaborates with K-12 school districts, higher education institutions, and companies to create streamlined and purposeful career pathways. He is a proud second generation native of San Bernardino, California, where all 11 of his aunts and uncles were also born and raised. As a first-generation college graduate, he developed a deep passion for helping other first-generation students navigate their academic and career journeys. This passion has driven him to spend the past 6 years at BLU. Dar'rell graduated from California State University, San Bernardino with a degree in Biology and Business Administration. He has been to over 50 concerts, traveled to 9 countries, and jumped 14,000 feet from a plane (twice).

cjohnson@bluedfoundation.org Caroline Johnson serves as the Community Partnerships Coordinator for BLU Educational Foundation, where she fosters meaningful collaborations to expand college and career access for students across the Inland Empire. She was inspired to join BLU after witnessing the organization's powerful impact on educational equity, which aligns closely with her passion for education and community empowerment. As both an immigrant and a first-generation college graduate with a B.A. in Sociology from the University of California, Riverside, Caroline brings a strong background in social work, self-sufficiency supports, nonprofit program management, and leading initiatives that uplift historically underserved communities. Outside of her professional role, she is a proud mother to her son and enjoys spending time with her family, staying active through hiking, and pursuing creative hobbies such as painting, aerial silks, and DIY projects that keep her grounded and inspired.

mhall@bluedfoundation.org Mia Hall is a College and Career Advisor with BLU Educational Foundation, where she supports students in reaching their college and career goals through personalized advising and mentorship. She started this work because, as a disabled student, she wanted to help guide other represented students like her navigate through college without having to jump through the same hoops she did. She holds four associate's degrees from Moreno Valley College and a Bachelor's degree from the University of California, Riverside. In her free time, she enjoys watching anime, playing video games, reading, and expressing her creativity through various arts and crafts projects.

jkeys@bluedfoundation.org Janine Keys serves as a College and Career Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. She joined BLU, excited to return to her hometown, to empower and equip all families as they explore the endless opportunities available within higher education and the Inland Empire. She is a proud first-generation graduate from the University of California- Irvine, where she double majored in Sociology and Anthropology with specializations in Global Studies, Medical Anthropology, and Social Problems and Public Policy. She spent a year in Taipei, Taiwan, and learned Mandarin at NTNU MTC, and taught English to young adults at Thrive English. In her free time, she enjoys creating playlists, playing the guitar, taking walks at the park, and exploring new places with friends.

apearsall@bluedfoundation.org Avery Pearsall is a Community Engagement Specialist with the BLU Educational Foundation, where he builds partnerships, connects resources, and supports initiatives that uplift students and families across the Inland Empire. He is inspired by BLU’s mission to expand educational equity and is driven by a passion for empowering historically underserved communities. Avery holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Bowie State University, a master’s degree in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University, and has built a successful acting career alongside his work in education. Avery has earned recognition for his leadership in community schools work, holds a background in education and youth development, and has completed professional training in community engagement, trauma-informed practices, and program coordination. In his personal time, he enjoys traveling, creating memorable artistic experiences with friends and family, and exploring new ways to serve the community with his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

jcadiz@bluedfoundation.org Jeanelle Cadiz serves as a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. She comes to BLU as a College Corps Volunteer. Her main job is to help underserved students apply for college and financial aid She is a sophomore at California State University San Bernardino and is pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies Some of her hobbies include volunteering, drawing, analyzing media, and listening to music. "

jortiz@bluedfoundation.org Jerry Ortiz is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. Jerry was inspired to join BLU because its mission to support underrepresented students through education connects deeply with his own experience as a first-generation Latino who turned personal struggles into a drive to guide others toward success. He is currently pursuing a B.A. in Sociology at the University of California, Riverside. He holds 3 associate's degrees from Rio Hondo College in Social Sciences, Social Behavior and Self-Development, and Sociology. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active through the gym and hiking, volunteering, and exploring new places through travel.

mtreto@bluedfoundation.org Metzli Treto is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. In this role, she hopes to be part of the support system for students going through the college process for the first time. As a first-generation college student, she understand the pressures that come with learning how to navigate the college system. She currently studies psychology with a minor in child development because working with people of all ages and making a difference in their lives is her passion. She has successfully completed over 900 community service hours in two years through the College Corps program. She loves to read and draw as a past time.

asherman@bluedfoundation.org Allison Sherman serves as the Director of BLU Educational Foundation where she is second in command for organization leadership and overall program implementation. With over 16 years of experience in education, Allison looks to provide data-driven programming and curated content for underserved youth and young adults that will provide upward social mobility and community development. She completed undergrad at the University of California, Riverside and her graduate program in educational counseling from the University of Southern California. She is currently a multiple business owner, is married with 3 children, and loves to travel and experience the outdoors.

retrenne@bluedfoundation.org Ruth Etrenne serves as the Civic Engagement Manager for BLU Educational Foundation, where she leads parent engagement efforts, civic leadership trainings, and community programs that strengthen Black student and family advocacy. As a proud Haitian American, Ruth is passionate about building community power, advancing educational equity, and creating opportunities for marginalized groups to thrive and have a voice. Ruth holds a Bachelor's degree from Loyola University Chicago. She has a strong background in program management, advocacy, and community organizing. Her accomplishments include facilitating leadership trainings and coordinating multi-organization initiatives. Outside of work, she treasures time with her church community, family, friends, and enjoys mentoring young leaders, traveling, beach days, and creative expression.

meme@bluedfoundation.org Megan Eme serves as BLU Educational Foundation's Operations and Communications Specialist. She is responsible for the Foundation's day-to-day management and communications strategy. After 5 years as a public school teacher, she transitioned to BLU so that she could continue advancing education access for young people in our community. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Communication and her Master's of Communication Management from the University of Southern California and her teacher's certification from the University of Michigan. In her spare time, she volunteers on the scholarship committee for the Town & Gown of USC, as a member of the Junior League, and as a Public Relations advisor for Alpha Chi Omega Sorority at Michigan State University. She enjoys playing tennis, cheering on the USC Trojan football team, and spending time with her rescue dog Jalapeño.

shughes@bluedfoundation.org Shernae Hughes serves as Wellness Specialist for BLU Educational Foundation. In this role, she provides workshops and training around mental health and wellness for students and staff of BLU. She holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Southern California and a graduate degree from Howard University.

cmercado@bluedfoundation.org Chelsea Mercado is the Lead College & Career Advisor (Retention), where she supports students by connecting them to the resources, guidance, and pathways they need to thrive in higher education. She works at BLU because she has a deep drive and passion for ensuring students receive the support they deserve, especially in spaces that don’t always make them feel seen or like they belong. She believes in the importance of never letting society forget the transformative power of higher education. Chelsea holds three associate degrees, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University San Bernardino, and a master’s degree in Higher Education Enrollment Management and Policy from the University of Southern California. Outside of work, she enjoys life with her loving husband and three children (twin boys and a daughter), and spends her free time creative writing, thrifting for unique clothing pieces, and collecting jade crystals.

bwhite@bluedfoundation.org Bernice White serves as BLU's Lead College Success Advisor. In this role, she ensures that BLU's students receive the support they need with college applications, financial aid, scholarships, and all things related to their postsecondary journey. Bernice began my journey with BLU as a volunteer and later became a College Success Advisor. Working at BLU gives her the opportunity to give back to my community and support students who look like her and who may be navigating challenges she once faced. What inspires her most is seeing students submit their college, financial aid, or scholarship applications and then receive their acceptance or award letters—the joy on their faces and the boost in confidence they experience is truly unmatched. Bernice is a proud San Bernardino Valley College alumna, where she earned my Associate’s degree in Psychology. She is currently a junior at California State University, San Bernardino, pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. Outside of BLU, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family. Most of their time together is spent at home—playing games, sharing good food, and simply enjoying each other’s company"

nfigueroa@bluedfoundation.org Natalie Figueroa is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. Helping the next generation attend college is what motivates her work at BLU. As a first-generation student herself, she understands the challenges that can arise, and she is passionate about helping other students who might face the same obstacles she did. She is a senior at California State University, San Bernardino, working towards her bachelor's degree in psychology. She earned her associate's degree in Behavioral and Social Sciences from Victor Valley College. When she is not working or studying, she loves to hike, read, and spend time with her dog.

apuentes@bluedfoundation.org Alyssa Puentes is a College Success Advisor at BLU Educational Foundation. She comes to BLU as a College Corps Volunteer. Alyssa wanted to volunteer with BLU because her focus area is K-12 education. She has previously been a Civic Engagement intern at BLU, where she worked on supporting Cal Grant Reform. She is working on her associate's degree in Science at San Bernardino Valley College On the weekends, she volunteers for the City of Grand Terrace Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), where she has taken training on disaster preparedness and emergency medication administration, such as Narcan for opioid overdoses. She is very family-oriented and loves to be outdoors, barbecuing, exercising, and just being outside in the sun!. The beach is my favorite place to be in the summer!