Leadership
Champions for students.
Stewards of possibility.
Guiding our organization with bold vision, generous spirit, and unwavering optimism.
Behind every grant awarded, scholarship funded, and dream supported is a team of leaders committed to raising funds to support our PROPEL Grant Program and expand the San Juan Education Foundation’s reach and impact.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is a spirited group of education advocates, community champions, and business leaders who guide the mission and impact of the San Juan Education Foundation.
Meet our Governance Team
Baelee Zeiher
Board Chair, 2026-2027
Health & Benefits Consultant, Segal
Jonathan Wesson
Board Vice Chair, 2026-2027
Sacramento Madison Branch Manager, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
Laura Williams
Treasurer, 2026-2027
Chief Financial Officer & Owner, Metro Metrics LLC
Carolyn Hopkins-Vasquez
Secretary, 2025-2026
Vice President of Client Services, 3Fold Communications
Interested in Serving?
We’re always looking for passionate leaders who want to invest in San Juan Unified propelling student achievement and enriching the lives of educators.
Board Advisory Committee
Formed in 2024, the Board Advisory Committee brings more voices to the table — offering guidance, insight, and community-rooted expertise to support the work of our Board of Directors.
Meet the members of the Board Advisory Committee
Want to Lend Your Voice and Insight?
Meet Our Executive Director
Colleen Cadwallader leads the San Juan Education Foundation with vision, energy, and deep community roots. A proud San Juan Unified parent and longtime Sacramento resident, she brings over 30 years of nonprofit and program leadership to the role.
Since 2021, Colleen has expanded our reach and impact—building on the legacy of founding director Pam Lapinski. Her past work includes leading grant management for the California State PTA, championing environmental education at the Sacramento Tree Foundation, and growing local Girl Scout leadership.
“It’s a privilege to serve the district where my children grew up. Helping ensure every student has opportunity and every educator has the tools to fuel their dreams inspires me every single day.”
The San Juan Education Foundation receives direct financial support from San Juan Unified and proudly serves as a bridge between community, schools, and opportunity.