The Board

Julie Mavrogeorge is a nationally recognized leader in educational esports and emerging technologies. With over 30 years of experience in training, coaching, and program development, she has built impactful programs in esports, drones, robotics, and design. Julie is a frequent presenter at major conferences, including NAECAD, TCEA, FETC, and ISTE, and collaborates regularly with Intel, California’s statewide esports group, and national education networks. Her work has been featured in articles and podcasts by NAECAD, CDW, ISTE, and Intel, and she has earned honors such as the 2022 NAECAD High School Esports Director of the Year,  2024 & 2025 the*gamehers Esports, and DA Top 100.

Julie is a certified Microsoft Innovative Expert, a certified Minecraft Education mentor, and trainer. She specializes in implementing systems that maximize program and team efficiency, and is known for her dynamic leadership, integrity, and ability to execute complex projects with precision. Passionate about empowering others, Julie connects people with resources and opportunities that foster growth, collaboration, and innovation in education and esports.

Dr. Richard Woodruff is the Head of the Pacific Gaming Center and Director of Esports at the University of the Pacific, where he leads innovative programming that blends competitive gaming with student development. As the Founder and Commissioner of the Central California Esports League, he has built a regional ecosystem that empowers youth through esports, leadership, and community engagement.

With over 17 years of experience in stress research, trauma-informed care, and emotional intelligence (EQ), Dr. Woodruff has developed groundbreaking models and resources to support organizational wellness and accelerate skill development. His work spans SEL, JEDI, career coaching, and executive leadership, and he is currently completing postdoctoral research on strengths-based self-awareness in executives. A passionate educator and mentor, Dr. Woodruff is a member of SIOP, APA, and NCDA, and is dedicated to unlocking human potential through data-driven strategies and inclusive practices.

Donna Walters is a dynamic educator and esports advocate with a passion for empowering students through technology and innovation. As a Computer Science Teacher at Folsom Cordova Unified School District, Donna introduces students to career pathways in coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence through hands-on, project-based learning. She advises several student clubs, including the Esports Club and the award-winning Game Development Club, FeatherLITE, which earned the 2025 Outstanding Student Game Award.

Beyond the classroom, Donna serves as a key contributor to College Esports, a nonprofit dedicated to workforce development and student success through gaming. She has organized major events such as the Esportspreneur Expo, CESI Tournament, and Bear Cup at the CA State Fair, and has held leadership roles in collegiate esports initiatives across California. Donna’s work has been recognized by the California Legislature, the City of Rancho Cordova, and the Small Business Administration, affirming his impact on education, community building, and the esports industry.

By day, Charles Taylor is a seasoned educator with 25 years of experience in secondary education, currently serving as a Project Coordinator at the Stanislaus County Office of Education’s Educational Technology Center. His journey has spanned classrooms and leadership roles—from Social Studies teacher to Instructional Coach, Curriculum Specialist, and Digital Learning Specialist—supporting diverse learners including EL, special education, alternative education, and advanced students.

Charles also champions student engagement through esports, serving as Vice President of the Central California Esports League, and has been working on building and supporting esports programs throughout Central California.  

By night, he delves into the discovery and research of ancient and eldritch lore in the dollar boxes of local comic stores, with his faithful hound. He is an avid collector of the obscure, and is always on the lookout for a good Dungeons & Dragons game.