Educational equity is so important because if it wasn’t for 10,000 Degrees, I would have fumbled my way through the university system, not been able to complete my degree in four years, racked up college debt, and maybe not even graduated. Those obstacles are there for so many students. If it wasn’t for the support of 10,000 Degrees, any one of those obstacles could have taken me off that college degree completion path.
A college degree is something that no one can ever take from you. It’s a proud piece of paper that you can always hold up. More than that, a degree opens up doors – jobs you’d never have access to or even dream about. It truly did so for me, and now as an educator, I strive to be sure my students have the same opportunities I had thanks to 10,000 Degrees support.
My dream is to create hope and opportunity for students today. I want to help fulfill their dreams and change the lives of young students who will be the next generation of scholars in our community.
Pepe in middle back row along with alum Graham Brandt (from left to right), Board Chair Sandy Donnell, founder Judy Edgar, and alum Saul Peña
Former Board Chair & Honorary Board Member
Director of Community Partnerships, San Rafael City Schools
Sonoma State University, 2008
Dominican University of California, 2002