Board of Directors
Erin Banks, Ph.D.
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I am an advocate for equity and inclusion. As a leader in higher education, I am keenly aware of the importance of quality education on the career trajectory and long term opportunities for our youth. I joined Helps Education Fund to be a part of an organization that strives to create access and open doors for all children and families, regardless of socioeconomic status. I want to be a part of a movement to educate our next generation.
Megan Bennett, Ph.D.
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
To improve educational outcomes for all children and ensure educational equity across a multitude of learning environments.
Michael De Los Santos, MPS
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I believe a fundamental part of success is education, and any adult or child who faces a barrier to education is going to fight an uphill battle to be successful. This is why I joined Helps Education Fund’s Board. I think the work we are doing to promote equitable access to educational programs is vital to the success of those who need those services. I am excited to do my part to help elevate this important work.
Edwin Jeffords
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I’m passionate about community service and our youth.
Mwenda Kudumu, M.Ed.
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I want to be a part of a solution that moves educational research from theory to practice. Helps Education Fund uses evidence-based education techniques to break down social barriers that prohibit a more just society.
Anam Lodhi
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I believe that all individuals should have access to quality education, no matter what their background or differences. As a future special education teacher, equal and inclusive access to education is of the utmost importance to me and Helps Education Fund strives to deliver that.
Rajan Merchant, MBA
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I joined Helps Education Fund because of our mission to provide free or low-cost educational programming to students from historically underserved schools. Educational equity is a key driver in improving our local communities here in NC.
Suath Penagos
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I am very passionate about education and helping children reach their full potential. I love that Helps Education Fund focuses on bridging the achievement gap through its high-quality, evidence-based programs. Through Helps Education Fund’s work, we can make a difference in so many children’s lives.
Preeti Prabhu, M.A.
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I believe that every child deserves equitable opportunities for growth and development. At Helps Education Fund, it is our constant endeavor to engender evidence-based learning outcomes through research and effective program delivery.
Will Rike
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
I joined the Helps Education Fund Board to help support the organization’s finance and reporting needs to assist in resource growth and broaden our impact.
Angelia Schmidt
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
Growing up, I saw firsthand the impact educational inequity has on student outcomes into adulthood. I joined Helps Education Fund because I believe no child’s future opportunities should be predetermined by circumstances they were born into.
Patrick Shearon
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
My family and I have been given many opportunities in education and I see the value that it drives in our lives. I am passionate about helping create opportunities for all children to achieve their potential through access to education.
Harihara Subramanium
Why I joined Helps Education Fund:
Children are our future and the surest way to make this world a better place for all of us is to give them an even chance. They will never disappoint.