Candidate for
Board Member; Sequoia Union High School District

I have enjoyed a career as an educator for over 40 years, teaching at community colleges in Monterey and Salinas, as well as public universities in California and Arizona. I came to the Bay Area in 1978 to earn a doctorate at Stanford University (Music) and raise my daughter, soon developing roots in Redwood City. My new home served as the springboard for developing an international career as a concert pianist and part time teacher at U.C. Santa Cruz, even as my daughter went through the school system in Redwood City, graduating from Woodside High School. In the course of my performance travels, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to do many presentations to school children of all ages, empowering them to believe in their ability to succeed.

My commitment to education and to my community runs deep. After teaching at the University of Arizona, I went to U.C. Irvine, serving as dean of the School of the Arts 2003-2008. In that position I developed strong outreach partnership with area schools, many of which are in underserved communities. I also served on the boards of several community non-profit organizations, as well as boards of two international professional associations -- the International Council of Fine Arts Deans and The College Music Society, becoming president of the latter. Through all my professional and volunteer experiences, I have developed strong leadership skills, have learned to effectively oversee budgets and have demonstrated creativity in finding solutions when challenges present themselves.

I am a native of Cuba, having emigrated to the U.S. as a teenager. Having found my home in Redwood City, I enjoy being close to my daughter and two grandchildren. For enjoyment, I use my pilot's license to fly in the Bay Area and beyond.