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Leadership

Our Board of Directors are volunteers working to support publics schools and the community.

The leadership for the EEF is comprised of an Executive Director and a Board of Directors made up of community leaders, parents, educators, and local businesses.

Officers of the Board

  • Elaine Elefante-Leano
    I grew up on the west side of Chula Vista and have witnessed the incredible expansion and growth of the Chula Vista community. I now live in the east side of Chula Vista and have worked for the Sweetwater Union High School District for over 34 years! I am excited to be part of EEF where students are the priority, change is the reality and collaboration is the strategy.

    Elaine Elefante-Leano

    Immediate past PRESIDENT
  • Therese Caballes
    “As someone who has specialized in building strong communities over the past 15+ years, I recognize the importance of engaging the greater community to partner in developing and enhancing the educational opportunities locally.”

    Therese Caballes

    PRESIDENT
  • Jesus “Leo” Ulloa-Higuera
    "I look forward to using my understanding and appreciation of diversity to support the human potential of each learner. I look forward to using my skills, and abilities to motivate, encourage and drive students to become curious life-long learners, particularly in STEM fields."

    Jesus “Leo” Ulloa-Higuera

    Vice President
  • Rachel Garrett
    “As someone who has specialized in building strong communities over the past 15+ years, I recognize the importance of engaging the greater community to partner in developing and enhancing the educational opportunities locally.”

    Rachel Garrett

    TREASURER
  • Giovanna Castro
    As a Chula Vista native, I am passionate about giving back and making a positive difference in my community.

    Giovanna Castro

    Secretary

Directors of the Board

  • Heather Daud Rubio
    Serving on the BOD is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the quality of education and the future of our community. I believe in the power of collaboration and community involvement. I believe I bring a perspective that blends practical experience with strategic thinking.

    Heather Daud Rubio

  • Dr. Melanie Brown
    I want to cast a “wider net” in regards to math, science, engineering and technology programs for students and educators who are in need of additional support collaboration and resources. I also want to continue to develop the involvement and depth of “Art” in scientific and mathematical disciplines.

    Dr. Melanie Brown

  • Camille Bruno
    “I have lived in Eastlake since it was built in 1987 and I have first-hand experience of what the EEF has given to the schools in the Eastlake Community since it's inception. I have more time to give now that my 3 children are grown. All 3 of them benefited in some way from the contributions of the EEF to their schools. I feel that I have alot to give and creative ideas that will help with broadening the scope of ideas and events that the EEF supports. I am well connected in the community and Love Eastlake!”

    Camille Bruno

  • Salim French
    "I want to share my skills to contribute to an educational board that helps serve the educational needs of this community."

    Salim French

  • Mariana Hughes
    As a teacher at Eastlake High School for 24 years and a parent in this community, I have seen the important work that the EEF has done over the years--up close-- and I am excited to contribute to this important effort!

    Mariana Hughes

  • Lillian Leopold
    "Service to students and community are among my core values. It is my honor to support EEF’s longtime commitment to education and the projects that strengthen our community."

    Lillian Leopold

  • Michael Minjares
    “Growing up in Chula Vista, I know the special place this is. I welcome the chance to give back to the community that helped shape me.”

    Michael Minjares

  • Brian Sinclair
    "Helping students engage with STEM is a passion of mine. I look forward to working with our education community to help our kids."

    Brian Sinclair

  • Antonio Villar
    To help our community provide resources to our local schools so that students and educators have the necessary resources to thrive and succeed.

    Antonio Villar

  • Gloria McKearney
    "As a principal for many years in the Eastlake Community , I was always grateful for the support and friendship that EEF provided the school and me and would like to give back to EEF and the community now that I am retired."

    Gloria McKearney

    2018-2024
  • Ian Burgar
    “I believe that no child should lack the fundamental tools and resources needed to obtain a quality education. As a father of twins and member of the Eastlake community serving on the board of the EEF was a clear way to put those beliefs into action.”

    Ian Burgar

    2018-2024
  • Debbie Fisher
    “I want to give back to the community that I live in now that I’m retired. I want to make a difference so students are exposed to the myriad of career choices.”

    Debbie Fisher

    2018-2024

Emeritus Board Members

EastLake Alumni & Friends

Staff

Interns