Luis Santana has a Masters degree in Social Work and extensive experience in community organizing, counseling, outreach and recruitment, and professional development. He has also worked as a missionary coordinating street outreach and mental health counseling efforts in South America . As of 1999, Luis has assumed the position of Executive Director of the organization, overseeing programming geared to improve student achievement, including development and replication of after school literacy programs throughout Fresno and parent education and involvement programs. Luis currently serves as Chairman of the Local Childcare Planning Council, has served Board for the United Way of Fresno County , serves on the Preschool Leadership Council of the League of Women Voters of Fresno, is Chairman of New Life Urban Strategies, belongs to The Central Valley Latino Rotary Club and is a member of the East Fresno Kiwanis Club
Matilda Soria- Research and Development Director.
Matilda Soria has been working at the organization since 2001; she began as a volunteer before leaving Fresno to pursue a graduate degree. Matilda has earned a Bachelors of Arts degree in Psychology and a Minor degree in Ethnic Studies from California State University , Fresno . She has also earned a Masters degree in Human Development and Psychology, with a specialization in Risk and Prevention from Harvard University . She has extensive experience conducting scientific and behavioral research among ethnic and at-risk populations, as well as in the development and management of educational programs for children and families. She serves on the Family Area Network Board of the California Department of Education; the Advisory Committee of the Fresno Unified School District – Community, Family, Engagement Network (CFEN); the United Way Successful Children Vision Council; and the First 5 of Fresno County Advisory Committee. She is also a lifetime member of the Honor Societies of Golden Key and Phi Kappa Phi.
Jenny Brietigam- After School Program Manager
Jenny Brietigam became a part of the Reading and Beyond’s administrative staff as Community Connection Coordinator in June of 2004 after volunteering at the organization for 5 years. Jenny was born and raised in Fresno , attended local schools and graduated from Fresno State in 2003 with her Bachelors in Communication. Jenny is responsible for building community support for the organization through PR, volunteerism and fund development. She is a member of the Fresno County Women's Chamber of Commerce, Fresno Women's Network, and South Fresno Lion’s Club.
Kao Saetern- Executive Assistant
Kao Saetern joined the organization as a part-time staff through the course of studies. Kao graduated from California State University , Fresno with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with emphasis in Finance. Upon graduation, Kao continued with Reading and Beyond as a full time staff and is now the Executive Assistant. Kao is an Alumni of Delta Sigma Pi. Kao loves to eat chicken and sleep.
Bob Silveira- Financial Manager
Bob Silveira joined the origination’s staff in October 2005 after leaving a career in financial government operations for Fresno County . Bob earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business with an emphasis in Accounting from CSU Fresno. He has extensive experience in Financial Management and joins the organization staff as a part-time Financial Manager.
Sandra Jones- College Prep Coordinator
Mrs. Jones’ background is in Entrepreneurship with a focus on after school program management. She is responsible for enhancing and expanding ‘literacy-focused’ after school programs throughout the region and building ‘best practice’ templates for the organization. Mrs. Jones attended California State University , Fresno where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Management and Marketing.
