Board

We are a non-hierarchical organization. Our board shares power and responsibility with our members. We govern with systems that empower each individual with equal decision-making authority. Click here for meeting agendas & minutes. 

Mele Benz - Chair

Mele's ancestors are from Tonga and Europe. She was born in Honolulu, HI, and was raised on a farm that's been in her family for four generations in Hilmar, CA. She is mom to two children in the Chico Unified school system. Mele has worked in TK-12 education for 20 years as a coach, teacher, and administrator. She serves as a leadership coach with the NorCal Educational Leadership Consortium and manages her daughter's soccer team.

Adrienne Jimmerson - Secretary

Adrienne Jimmerson is a Korean American educator of 20 years. She was born in Seoul, Korea and adopted to her family in Chico, California where she grew up. Adrienne and her husband are raising their mixed-race sons in Chico.  In her free time she enjoys travel, exercise, spending time with family, and volunteering at the Butte Humane Society.  

Shawna Pollard - Treasurer

Shawna Pollard was born and raised in a small town called Merced, CA. She is a Butte College Alumni and holds an AS Degree in Office Administration. Shawna and her spouse have lived in Chico for 15 years. Her two boys were born in Paradise/Chico and attend schools in the CUSD. In her career she has worked in Education, Production and Administration. She is an African American woman, who has a passion for this cause and the commitment to see the job through.