OUR TEAM
We create inclusive spaces and provide high-quality programs, events, and resources to foster belonging, empowerment, and self-efficacy.
Together, we're building a more equitable future. Interested in learning more about our team or contributing to the mission?
Email us at info@projectsankof.org

Dr. Maisha Beasley (she/her)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Ed.D International and Multicultural Education | Univ. of San Francisco
M.A. Higher Education Administration | Univ. of the Pacific
B.A. Communication | San Diego State Univ.
Tyrone Cutkelvin (he/him)
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
M.B.A. Global Technology Management | American InterContinental University
B.S. Accounting | University of Belize
Dr. Samarah Blackmon (she/her)
DIRECTOR, CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT & TRAINING, SOCIAL JUSTICE TRAINING INSTITUTE (SJLI)
Ph.D. in Education, UCLA School of Education & Information Studies
MPP (Master's in Public Policy), UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs
B.A. in Journalism, University of Washington
Dr. John Edwards (he/him)
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL INITIATIVES & PROGRAMS
Ed.D. Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in Higher Ed Administration, Grand Canyon University
Dr. Ashley Barton (She/her)
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PROGRAMS & EDUCATOR PATHWAYS
Ed.D., Educational Leadership USC
M.Ed. Student Affairs UCLA
B.A. Sociology, UCLA
Nicole Varveris (she/her)
PROGRAM MANAGER, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
M.A. Educational Counseling, National University
B.S. Sociology, University of Oregon
JERZY MESSAN (HE/HIM)
PROGRAM MANAGER, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
B.A. Sociology, UCLA
Mel deVivar (she/her)
COMMUINCATIONS MANAGER
M.Ed. Student Development Administration, Seattle University
B.S. Design Studies and Advertising, Minor in Asian American Studies, San Jose State University
B.S. in Social Sciences, San Jose State University
Saianna Smith (she/her)
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Cal State Fullerton (expected 2026)
M.Ed. in Counseling, Univ. Southern California
B.A in African American Studies, UC Irvine









