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
EdD Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in Higher Ed Administration, Grand Canyon University
Nicole Varveris (she/her)
PROGRAM MANAGER, NEXT BLACK EDUCATOR WORKFORCE
M.A. Educational Counseling, National University
B.S. Sociology, University of Oregon
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
Deonna Smith (she/her)
PROGRAM MANAGER (EDUCATION & CURRICULUM)
EdD. Educational Leadership & Social Justice, Loyola Marymount University
M.A. Education Emphasis in Mathematics & Urban Education, University of Notre Dame
B.A. in Political Science, International Relations, Spanish, Minor- Women’s & Gender Studies, Philosophy, Gonzaga University
Trisden Shaw (he/him)
CURRICULUM DESIGNER
M.A. in African American Studies, UCLA
B.A. in Political Science, Minor Journalism & Women/Gender Studies University of Nevada, Reno
Kaiya Farmer (she/her)
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
B.A. Political Science & B.A. Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles