Our team

Tuka Almamori | Senior Advisor, College and Career Program

Tuka was born and raised in Sunnyvale, California. Being the daughter of two Iraqi refugees taught her the importance of hard work and perseverance from a very young age. Tuka has received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from San Jose State University with a focus in Child and Adolescent Development. She is a first-generation college graduate who is passionate about serving underrepresented minority students and helping ensure educational equity for all. She looks forward to continuing her work advising college students, promoting their success, and building meaningful relationships. You can find her exploring the outdoors, hiking, watching basketball, or spending time with her family and friends in her free time.

Alessandra Bolger | Operations Manager

Alessandra Bolger is a San Francisco local and a proud First Graduate, being the first in her family to graduate from college. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Mills College, a local institution renowned for its dedication to social justice. With a deep passion for the arts and education, Alessandra currently serves as the Operations Manager at First Graduate and has been a part of many other esteemed organizations such as The Shubert Organization, The Whitney Museum of American Art, and Children’s Fairyland. Outside of work, Alessandra can be found hiking with her Border Collie or in the studio working on one of her many creative endeavors.

Sabrina Chamberlain | Program Coordinator, High School

Sabrina was born in San Diego, but spent her childhood between Washington and Hawai’i. She attended UC Berkeley as an undergraduate, studying history. She was the first in her family to earn a Bachelor’s Degree. Sabrina recently graduated from San Francisco State with an M.A. in history. Her graduate research focused on the histories of queer people, their experiences and identities.

Sabrina has previously worked as a college advisor, a teaching assistant, and as a nonprofit programs coordinator. Drawing from her own experiences, she is deeply passionate about improving accessibility to higher education. In her free time, Sabrina is an avid reader, a lifelong dancer, and the mother of two, very spoiled cats.

Terri Forman | Chief Executive Officer

Terri joined First Graduate® in 2011 with better than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience as a development director, award–winning marketing communications and advertising director, consultant, and board member. During Terri’s tenure, contributions and support from individuals, foundations, and corporations have increased significantly, helping First Graduate® grow from coaching 185 students to more than 700 students and alumni. Terri has deepened the fundraising and communications capacity of First Graduate® by thinking forward, leading from the heart, and building and mentoring a staff team that partners closely with Board members, thought leaders, and donors.

Marcel Glover | Director, Middle School Program

Born and raised here in the diverse city of San Francisco. I grew up wanting to always make an impact on my community. It all began during senior year of high school when I participated in a program at the De Young Museum through which we went to different elementary schools teaching students about West African Art. It eventually lead me on a journey where I ended up majoring and graduating with a BA in Political Science at San Jose State University. In my last semester of college I worked in a middle school after-school program and have been working with youth for the last 5 years. I am motivated to do the work that I do so students from similar backgrounds as myself have an opportunity to succeed and accomplish their dreams.

Eric Guico | Chief Program Officer

Eric (he/him) is the son of immigrants from the Philippines, who instilled the value of education in him at a very young age. Because of that, Eric became the first in his family to graduate from college in the U.S. and decided to dedicate his career to education. Over the last 17 years, Eric has supported Bay Area students in realizing their dreams of going to and graduating from college.

Eric believes that relationships are what lead to transformation. Alongside the knowledge and opportunities we provide students, we cultivate the relationships through advising, networking, mentoring, and peer connections.

Outside of First Graduate, Eric enjoys martial arts, magic, gaming, and taking his wife, child, and friends on mini-adventures around Northern California.

Maria Gramajo | Program Coordinator, Middle School

Maria was born and raised in the Bay Area and is a first-generation college graduate. Maria graduated from American University with degrees in American Studies and Gender Studies. She is passionate about serving underrepresented communities and working with families and youth. Maria has previously worked at both public and independent schools as well as nonprofits. During her free time, Maria enjoys practicing yoga, boxing, and hiking across the Bay.

Sivan Levaton | Head of Strategic Partnerships

Sivan (aka Sivo) is a strong believer in the power of education to create social change and has dedicated her career to equity. She’s been taking on inaugural roles ever since she sold her startup in 2013. The organizations she’s joined over the years have had an intentional orientation towards social impact and collective responsibility — with a focus on ecosystem shifts and systemic change. She’s an ideas person who loves turning them into action and is often looking for ways to scale and improve the impact made. Sivo has a proven track record securing high-profile partnerships and marketing campaigns, which have helped further her work. Sivan is having a full-circle moment — after launching the original Coach 3.0 program more than a decade ago, she returns to the organization with fresh perspective and a renewed commitment to First Graduate’s mission.

Mario Ortega | High School College Access Coordinator

Mario was born and raised in the Bay Area and is a first-generation college graduate. Having lived in the Bay Area his whole life, Mario has a deep understanding of the community, its people, and its culture. Mario first became involved with college access programs as a student at his high school, Richmond High where he graduated in 2018. Following graduation he attended San Francisco State University, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration Management in 2022. After receiving his degree, Mario worked at his old high school as a College Advisor. As a college access program alum, college advisor, and first-generation student, Mario knows the importance and impact these programs can have on high school students as they move forward with their college aspirations. Having seen the importance and impact first hand, Mario is eager to pay it forward by joining the First Graduate team and bringing his experience and passion to help students succeed.

Mubeenah Shaikh | Senior Manager, College & Career Program

Mubeenah is a proud San Francisco native and grew up in the South of Market area. Mubeenah has always had a passion and dedication to work in her community. She attended San Francisco State University and graduated with a BS in Health Education. Mubeenah is a first-generation college graduate and looks forward to working with students and families on navigating the barriers and difficulties in higher education. I am passionate about social justice and educational access and equity. In her free time, you can find her cooking Indian food with her family, reading books, traveling, or exploring new restaurants.

Denise Castillo Chavez | Site Lead, Middle School Program

Denise Castillo Chavez is a proud first-generation college graduate from Santa Clara University. She has over ten years of working in education with experience ranging from college admissions, student advising, facilitating, and organizational operations. Having benefited from college access programs such as TRIO Rising Scholars since middle school, Denise believes in the power of education to transform the lives of students, families, and entire communities. She is excited to empower middle school students to sharpen their academic skills, and build their knowledge about the abundant opportunities that are available through a college education. On weekends, she is exploring all of the gems that Oakland and the Bay Area have to offer including cafes, restaurants, parks, and libraries.

Seth Tarver | Special Projects Coordinator

I Graduated from Oregon State University with a degree is Business with a focus on management. I am passionate about finding solutions and resources to help underserved communities. I believe that education is the best solution to uplifting areas in need and I am happy to help First Graduate® assist in that process.

Will Thornton | Program Coordinator, Middle School

After growing up in Flagstaff, Arizona, Will spent time working and travelling before earning his bachelor’s degree from The City University of New York’s Hunter College. He became deeply involved with the activist community in NYC, instilling in him a commitment to social justice and equity for all people. With years of experience in educational roles ranging from teacher to tutor to after school program leader, Will is excited to join First Graduate in their goal to help students become first generation graduates. On the weekends Will is likely playing board or video games or finding a new hiking trail to explore with Meadow, his crazy mini-poodle.

Efe Umukoro | High School Program Coordinator

Hello, my name is Efe Umukoro! My parents immigrated to America from Nigeria, in hopes of giving me and my brother a better life. I grew up in Lancaster, California and moved to San Diego for college where I received my bachelor’s degree with a major in Psychology and a minor in Leadership Development from San Diego State University! During my time in college, I joined a dance team, became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and founded my own high school mentorship program within the Afrikan Student Union at SDSU. Through developing my program, I discovered my love for working with high schoolers and helping close the opportunity divide for students from minority communities! I am so excited to join the First Graduate® team and serve as a positive resource in the lives of San Francisco students! In my free time, I enjoy binge watching tv shows, singing and working out!

Oscar Murguia Zepeda | Program Manager, High School

Oscar is the proud son of immigrants from Jalisco, Mexico and is a first-generation college graduate. Oscar was born and raised in San Jose, California and attended De Anza College upon graduating high school and transferred to the University of California Berkeley GO BEARS! and received his bachelor’s in Anthropology and minor in Chicanx studies. Before joining First Graduate® Oscar worked at a high school in San Jose as a College Adviser and enjoyed interacting with his students and creating meaningful relationships through things they had in common and supporting their sporting and extracurricular events. Oscar enjoys assisting and seeing his students thrive and achieve their educational goals.

During his free time Oscar enjoys attending sporting events and is a HUGE Cal Football, Chivas de Guadalajara, and (always Oakland) Las Vegas Raiders fan! And enjoys investigative journalism and documentaries as well as travelling to new places and visiting his family in Mexico.

Meet Our Interns

Kelly Aguilar | Intern

Kelly was born and raised in San Francisco and went to ICA Cristo Rey High School. There she
learned through the Corporate Work Study Program how to work in different fields and is
currently a sophomore at University of San Francisco. Her major is in Psychology and a minor in
neuroscience and is very excited and grateful to be part of First Graduate and help empower
students to reach their full potential

Jesus A. Aguilar Martinez | Intern

Jesus is a University of San Francisco student majoring in Critical Diversity Studies with a minor in Public Policy. As the son of immigrant parents, he is passionate about advocating for farmworkers’ rights, Latinx empowerment, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and diverse representation. As a first-generation, Mexican-American student, he understands the challenges first-generation students face entering the new journey of higher education. His advocacy began in high school with M.E.Ch.A, organizing a major workers’ rights march. Since then, he has worked with Congressman Mike Thompson and interned with 10,000 Degrees through the Bank of America Student Leaders program. Beyond activism, he is a mariachi violinist, mentor, and dedicated volunteer. He also has a dog named Pablo and loves spending time with friends!

Madison Brown | Intern

Hi! My name is Madison Brown (they/she pronouns) and I am a first year nursing student at the
University of San Francisco. I’m from Santa Clarita, California (which is SoCal), but I love being in NorCal. Some things I like to do are journal, dance (even though I’m horrible), listen to all kinds of music, and be one with nature.

I’m excited to be a part of this program, get to know our students, and help them succeed in
their near futures. I am more than happy to share a bit about me, and I would love to also know more about you!

Karla Cancio | Intern

Hello, my name is Karla Garcia. I am a daughter of two Mexican parents born in Veracruz, Mexico. I was born and raised here in the Bay Area. Currently, I am a Nursing student at the University of San Francisco.

When I am not learning about the human body, I am at the beach watching the sunset, dancing, hiking, or baking. I am passionate about guiding young individuals to see them become the leaders of tomorrow.

Jesus Aguilar | Intern

Hello! My name is Jesus, a Critical Diversity Studies Major, Politics & Public Policy minor at the University of San Francisco! I have very strong ties to the Latine community in ways such as fundraising, event coordinating, and the policies that affect them, so please feel free to ask me any questions if you are interested in these spaces as well! I enjoy going out in the city, walking, trying new foods, and I will always find a way to get a matcha latte on the road!

Janely Castanon | Intern

Hello! My name is Janely Castanon and I am a freshman at the University of San Francisco, majoring in biology. I really enjoy cooking many cultural foods, listening to music, being adventurous, and watching good shows and movies. I also enjoy hanging out with my family and friends, as I am a very family oriented person. I am also a former member of the First Graduate program since middle school and it’s been such a great journey and it’s a pleasure to be able to give back to that community that helped me and be able to support the needs of these students.

Kaelin Chan | Intern

Kaelin Chan is a first-generation college student at the University of San Francisco, where she is pursuing a degree in Business Analytics. She especially enjoys taking on projects that require her to problem-solve, bring structure to complicated situations, and find ways to make things easier for the people around her. Outside of academics and work, she coaches and competes in Taekwondo.

Violet Diaz | Intern

Hi! My name is Violet Diaz. I am a sophomore at the University of San Francisco, majoring in Sociology. Careerwise I plan to pursue immigration law. In my free time I enjoy reading, baking, and playing football! I really enjoy spending time with family and friends, as well as making new friends. So, if you ever see me around, feel free to say hello!

Melanie Garcia | Intern

Hello, I am Melannie Garcia! My hometown is San Jose, CA. I am a first-generation nursing student currently in my third year at the University of San Francisco. During my free time, I love to try out new recipes, crocheting, and reading. I am enthusiastic and grateful to be a part of this community. I love working with students and look forward to getting to know you all!

Atticus Haynes | Intern

Hello! My name is Atticus Hynes. I am a junior at the University of San Francisco studying sociology with a concentration in criminology. I want to go into Juvenile Law in the future and represent kids. I love reading, painting, playing video games, and listening to music. I have previous experience working with students at my junior college, so I know a lot about different college experiences. I am excited to inspire students to have a positive outlook!

Azlyn Henri | Intern

Hello, my name is Azlyn Henri. I am a San Francisco native and currently studying Business Marketing at San Francisco State University. I grew up in the San Francisco Unified School District and feel deeply connected to the community. I enjoy going to the gym, reading, baking, and all my beautiful houseplants! I want to work with students with IEPs/learning disabilities someday and make a difference in my community.

Hibatallah Herchi | Intern

Hi, I’m Hibatallah Herchi! I’m a first-year neuroscience major at the University of San Francisco. My favorite things to do are cook/bake, watch medical dramas, and explore. I love learning about new things, so if you ever see me and have any facts to share, please do!

Kit Kulina | Intern

Hello! My name is Kit Kulina and I grew up in Sausalito, CA. I am currently pursuing a B.A. in Theater — with an emphasis in directing and design — from the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television. I have previously worked as a sewing instructor for elementary and middle school students, a theater camp counselor, and a Fundraising/Outreach Chair for a student theater company. In my free time on campus I enjoy participating in clubs, doing visual arts, and exploring the LA food scene. I am enthusiastic about connecting with students and am excited to continue to work with the First Graduate team.

Zakoi Lageman | Intern

Hi! My name is Zakoi Lageman. I’m originally from Memphis, Tennessee, and I’m currently a freshman at the University of San Francisco majoring in Global Studies. In my free time, I love painting, skating, and exploring new bakeries around the city. I’m passionate about community service and often volunteer at local homeless shelters and soup kitchens. Coming from a small city that’s often defined by its struggles, I’ve learned the importance of hope, resilience, and opportunity. My goal is to motivate and guide kids to look toward the future ,to help them see that their dreams are possible, no matter where they start.

Sonia Nguyen | Intern

Hi, my name is Sonia Nguyen. I am a first-year psychology student at the University of San Francisco, originally from Milpitas CA. In my free time, I love to learn new instruments, collect/make trinkets, watch TV shows, and spend time with friends and family. I have previous experience tutoring young kids and teens, and I’m passionate about understanding others and helping people feel heard/ valued.

Sophia Nguyen | Intern

Hello! My name is Sophia Nguyen, and I am a freshman at the University of San Francisco, currently majoring in biology. In my free time, I really enjoy going on hikes, listening to music, going to the gym, hanging out with friends, and trying new foods. I’ve always been passionate about helping out kids, whether it was through UNICEF, tutoring, coaching, or volunteering. I am so excited to join the First Graduate program this year, and to continue to give back to younger kids.

Theo Chapin | Intern

I was born in San Francisco but raised in upstate New York. I use he/they pronouns. I am a third year Psychology major and Theology minor at the University of San Francisco. I love working with kids and seeing their personalities and interests develop. I hope to be either a school psychologist or a private practice therapist with a specific speciality in children and adolescents. I enjoy baking, cooking, crocheting and am an amateur photographer! I am also a part of queer communities on my campus.

Olivia Craig | Intern

Olivia Craig is a 3rd year nursing student originally from Southwest Colorado, currently pursuing her undergraduate degree at the University of San Francisco. Since moving to San Francisco in 2022, Olivia has embraced the rich opportunities the university offers and is dedicated to making a difference in healthcare. Her goal is to work in the emergency department of an underserved hospital, where she hopes to provide essential care to those in need.

As a first-generation college student, Olivia understands the challenges of navigating the financial aid and college application processes. Outside of her studies, she enjoys outdoor adventures, experimenting with new recipes, and exploring the vibrant city of San Francisco with her partner.

Keyla De La Cruz-Sanchez | Intern

Hello, My name is Keyla De La Cruz-Sanchez. I am currently a transfer student at the University of San Francisco, majoring in Psychology. I am a first-generation college student and grew up all around the bay area.

When I am not studying or working, I enjoy going on hikes, listening to music, and watching my favorite comfort shows/movies! I am beyond thrilled and honored to be included in the incredible team at First Graduate; I hope to be able guide students on the best path and help them succeed and achieve their dreams.

Lydia Cunha | Intern

Currently residing in San Francisco, however born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil. I am in my senior year at University of San Francisco pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance. I have a passion for business administration and have been lucky to explore that in my position at First Graduate for over a year now. In my free time I enjoy exploring San Francisco, traveling and spending quality time with my friends and family.

Melannie Garcia | Intern

Hello, I am Melannie Garcia! My hometown is San Jose, CA. I am a first-generation nursing student currently in my first year at the University of San Francisco. During my free time, I love to try out new recipes, crocheting, and reading. I am enthusiastic and grateful to be a part of this community. I love working with students and look forward to getting to know you all!

Alicia Lo | Intern

Hello! My name is Alicia Lo and I am from San Bernardino, California. I am a kinesiology major at the University of San Francisco. When I am not working or studying, I enjoy photography, traveling, learning languages, and cooking. I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to serve as the development intern for this academic year.

Crystal Perez | Intern

Hello, my name is Crystal Perez! I am a first generation college student and I recently transferred into the nursing program at the University of San Francisco. I was born and raised in the Bay Area but one day I would like to be a travel nurse so I could explore different parts of the world and different cultures. My hobbies include walking/exercising, listening to music, and self-care. I’m thrilled to join First Graduate because I empathize with the challenges of navigating the education system, and I’m eager to share my personal experiences with others to hopefully inspire and make an impact on someone else’s life.

Charlynn Pulou | Intern

My name is Charlynn Pulou and it is such a pleasure to meet you. I am a sophomore at the University of San Francisco and my major is Psychology. I enjoy listening to music and watching anime whenever I have time. I also love shopping at Bath and Body Works and I also have a cat named Butter who is my whole world.

Janae Rapley | Intern

Hey! I’m Janae, a second year math major at University of San Francisco. Along with attaining my Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics, I am also pursuing my Master’s in Arts and Teaching in Urban Education and Social Justice (thanks to the 4+1 program offered through the Undergraduate Teaching Education Center!) My family and I are Jamaican and I was raised on the East Coast, but came to San Francisco for University. I love singing, reading, and going into nature during my free time! I am excited to work with First Graduate because supporting students during their educational journey means a lot to me!