Citizen Schools California Welcomes New Members to the Team!
We are excited to announce that Citizen Schools California has welcomed four new members to the team this summer! Their experience and passion for helping others will provide invaluable support to CSCA as we continue our mission to close the opportunity gap in the Bay Area. Read below to meet our new members:
MARY ASKINS- Manager of Corporate & Civic Engagement
Tell us a little about your experience prior to joining Citizen Schools:
Prior to coming to CSCA I was the Development Manger for the Redwood City Education Foundation raising funds for the 16 public elementary and middle schools in Redwood City. My primary focus was in corporate sponsorship, volunteer engagement and planning fundraisers. Prior to that I was the Alumni Development Manager for Sacred Hearts Schools, Atherton organizing reunions, engaging alumni in school activities and supporting fundraising efforts for the Development Department.
What excites you most about becoming the new Manager of Corporate and Civic Engagement for CSCA?
What excites me most about becoming Corporate and Civic Engagement Manager for CS is contributing to the mission of the organization. I strongly believe that all children, regardless of their background, deserve the right to succeed and thrive. It's incumbent upon all of us to do what we can to level the playing field so that all children have equal access to the resources necessary to propel them to a bright future. I look forward to using the skills I've acquired to help Citizen Schools' mission.
ALLISON KNIGHT- Director of Foundation Giving & National Partner Management
Tell us a little about your experience prior to joining Citizen Schools: I've had years of enterprise-level experience in both corporate and non-profit sectors. Prior to Citizens Schools, I held a position with Microsoft that involved the successful management of various marketing projects, community relations, and events in New York and Boston. I am passionate about community service and empowering others to achieve more. When not glued to my computer, you can find me watching football, hiking our National Parks, or taking photos.
What excites you most about becoming the new Director of Foundation Giving & National Partner Management for CSCA? I am excited to rejoin the nonprofit world and make an impact with local students while hopefully having a little fun along the way!
ANDREW LUCK- External Engagement & Communications VISTA
Tell us a little about your experience prior to joining Citizen Schools: I do not have much experience working directly with a non profit. But I have had a chance to be a part of one called Students Helping Honduras. They have a similar goal in mind and are very education centered. I have also had two years experience working with Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.
What excites you most about becoming the new External Engagement & Communications VISTA for CSCA? The thing that excites me most about my new position is having the chance to communicate with so many people within the organization, and help with vital role that helps everyone stay in the loop.
VICTORIA DAMICO- Development VISTA
Tell us a little about your experience prior to joining Citizen Schools: Prior to Citizen Schools I attended Towson University where I received a bachelors degree in psychology as well as a minor in health science. During my four years at Towson I worked with a non-profit called Students helping Honduras which actually has similar ideals as Citizen Schools. I got to visit the country of Honduras three times and got to work one on one with students and families as well as built schools side by side with the Hondurans. While at Towson, I also interned at Kennedy Krieger Institute where I got to observe therapy sessions and gain insight into my field of study.
What excites you most about becoming the new Development VISTA for CSCA? I am both eager and excited to work with Citizen Schools because of the proven accomplishments and impact that Citizen Schools has shown. In the few days that I have been here I can see how this non-profit works so hard to eliminate the opportunity gap and provide these children with a sense of belonging and hope. Along with the Citizens Schools mission, I am greatly looking forward to working with the incredible staff members here in Redwood City. Everyone has been so welcoming, helpful, and really making this transition as smooth as possible.