FOUNDER

Paul Cummins

In 1995, Dr. Paul Cummins founded New Visions Foundation with a bold mission: to expand access to quality education for students from diverse backgrounds. Out of this vision came New Roads School—an independent school rooted in the principles of Engaged Education and dedicated to serving a socio-economically diverse community. Believing that all young people deserve a meaningful and inclusive education, Dr. Cummins focused his efforts on educational equity beyond traditional classrooms. He went on to help launch three charter schools in underserved communities and develop impactful programs for foster youth and youth impacted by the justice system. 

TRANSITIONING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

Roberta Shintani

Roberta has held C-Suite positions in various industries. While seeking her desire to give back and give thanks, she is able to apply her cultivated skill set as Executive Director. She is a former film industry executive with over 25 years of operational and financial expertise where she managed multi-million dollar budgets.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Stefanie Lahbil

Stefanie Najat Lahbil is a visionary nonprofit leader with over two decades of experience driving impact at the intersection of education, community empowerment, and social justice. As Executive Director, she is committed to advancing equity and expanding opportunities for youth through education, mentorship, and transformative systems change. Her career includes leadership roles as a principal, assistant principal, and international educator, reflecting a deep-rooted dedication to inclusive learning environments and community-centered solutions. Stefanie holds a Master of Public Affairs and a Master of Education from the University of Minnesota.

DIRECTOR OF IMPACT & DEVELOPMENT

Latavia Pineda

Latavia is a dedicated professional with a career spanning community empowerment, advocacy, and workforce development. With a background in international relations and certification in English/Spanish translation from American University, Latavia has worked with non-profit organizations across California, Colorado, and Washington, D.C. Latavia has a proven track record of creating comprehensive departmental strategies, and aligning organizational goals with relevant initiatives to enhance program reach. Her commitment to fostering inclusive environments and empowering diverse communities continues to drive her success in every project she leads.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & STRATEGY

Imani-Grace King

Imani-Grace King is a writer, filmmaker, and creative leader whose work centers on storytelling as a catalyst for healing and transformation. With a dual degree in Communication Studies and Politics & International Affairs from Furman University, she possesses a strong background in marketing, social advocacy, film production, strategic operations, and leadership. She brings both heart and expertise to her role at the Coalition for Engaged Education. Her commitment to system-impacted youth and providing trauma-informed care informs everything she does. Imani is also the founder of Letters to the Souls, a writing and production platform dedicated to healing through creativity and human connection.

COMMUNICATIONS & YOUTH NAVIGATOR MANAGER

JaMurl Scott

Ja'Murl started as a client for the Coalition for Engaged Education and later joined as a Youth Navigator while attending Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC).  After graduating, he returned to the Coalition, using his expertise and lived experience to manage the Youth Navigator program and the organization's IT department. JaMurl brings a wide range of skills to his position and supports all social media, website, and office administration efforts.

DATA ANALYSIS

Annie Gibbs

Annie holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Pepperdine University and brings extensive experience in data analytics and nonprofit work to the Coalition for Engaged Education. With a passion for supporting underserved communities, she combines her technical skills with a deep commitment to social impact. Annie previously worked in data analytics for University Advancement at Pepperdine, where she contributed to strategic initiatives and data-driven decision-making. Her nonprofit experience includes advocating for mental health and global causes. As Program Data Analyst, Annie is dedicated to using data to drive positive outcomes for foster and justice-involved youth in Los Angeles.

CASE RESOURCE SPECIALIST

Bertha Cordova

Bertha was born and raised in Los Angeles and has worked with foster and justice system-impacted youth for 16 years. With personal lived experience in both systems, she is deeply driven to make a difference in the lives of young people who have faced challenges similar to her own. Bertha is committed to building strong relationships with youth and advocating on their behalf as Case Resource Specialist. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her six children and grandson, as well as attending car shows and concerts.

CASE RESOURCE SPECIALIST

Christian Gudiel

Christian has been part of the Coalition for Engaged Education since 2011. He joined the Coalition to support youth impacted by the justice system and to be a part of their journey toward positive change. His passion for working with young people and counselors, and his desire to make a meaningful difference, motivated him to become a Youth Navigator. Christian serves as a full-time Case Resource Specialist, helping youth and young adults achieve their goals. 

CASE RESOURCE SPECIALIST

Bryan Arredondo

Bryan’s interest in the criminal justice field began after his final release from probation camp at age 15, when he received a full scholarship to attend UCLA’s Mock Trial Summer Institute. This experience sparked his passion for law and advocacy. Bryan went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Cal State LA, majoring in Social Work with a minor in Criminal Justice. As a Case Resource Specialist, Bryan advocates for his clients, whether they are facing legal challenges, emotional struggles, or in need of vital resources.

CASE RESOURCE SPECIALIST

Samantha DeLaO

Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, Samantha always knew she wanted to give back to her community. She earned her B.S. in Medical Sociology from Mount Saint Mary’s University in 2019 and has since worked in the field of social work. Supporting individuals on their journeys has always been her passion and the driving force behind her work. For Samantha, making a positive and lasting impact, no matter how big or small, makes it all worthwhile. She strongly believes that this work is not about “fixing people” but about empowering them to find their voice and become the best versions of themselves, whatever that may look like.

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT & CASE RESOURCE SUPPORT

Deshanae Crittendon

Deshanae “DeDe” joined the coalition to be a part of a cause that truly empowers youth with the skills to navigate life. She attended Y.O.U.A.H.S, an alternative high school, and feels like this line of work chose her. She feels privileged to care deeply for the well-being of others. DeDe supports all office operations and administrative tasks for our Case Resource Specialists. She also plans to embark on a new journey of exploring the world of customizing her own clothing.  She wants to learn all she can and be a guiding light to those who feel lost.

ACCOUNTANT 

Hugo Rojas

Hugo was born and raised in the Miraflores neighborhood of Lima, Peru. He immigrated to Los Angeles, California, in 2004 and became an American citizen in 2021. After studying accounting in college and working for several years as a math tutor supporting students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, he realized he wanted to help young people overcome the obstacles they face in life. Hugo has worked as a bookkeeper and accountant for over 10 years.

YOUTH NAVIGATOR

Aniya Scott

Aniya joined the Coalition to help youth in Los Angeles County access the resources they need and deserve. She’s passionate about supporting young people like herself in reaching their goals and finding success. Aniya plans to attend college to study accounting. In her free time, she enjoys expressing her creativity through painting, designing, and making custom mugs.

YOUTH NAVIGATOR

Micheal Strickland

From cartoons to simple sketches, Micheal is both an artist and a creator across multiple digital media platforms. He enjoys video editing as both a hobby and a career path. Micheal is currently a student at Los Angeles Job Corps and Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC), where he is working toward an associate degree in Digital Media. He hopes to become a full-time editor in the future.