Board of Directors

Chair-Elect (2022-23), Chair (2023-25), Past Chair (2025-26)

Charity Freeman

My CSTA Story

Charity’s journey as “unofficial brand ambassador for CSTA” began when she received a scholarship to attend the 2019 CSTA Annual Conference. There, she learned about CSTA’s then–brand new Equity Fellowship and went on to join its first cohort! Since then, Charity has written several articles for CSTA’s The Voice, served as the first Equity Strand Lead of the Annual Conference Committee, and led CSTA’s Nominations and Elections Committee. She became chair of the Board of Directors in July 2023. “#iLoveMyCSTA, and I’m passionately committed to our organization’s growth as we support and advocate for our teachers to be seen, heard, and valued.”

My Story

As part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s computer science department, Charity Freeman is supporting the launch of two new graduate degree programs in her hometown of Chicago. Tried and true, she’s a diehard Bears fan, staunch supporter of the “Sears Tower,” and a firm believer that ketchup doesn’t belong on hot dogs. Her determined spirit carries into her work in CS education throughout the state of Illinois, where she helps lead the newly formed ECEP Illinois team. As a governor-appointed member of the Illinois P–20 Council, she co-chairs a project-based working group on scaling K–12 CS education. Charity is also the lead instructor of the Teaching Methods in Computer Science endorsement course for in-service teachers at UIUC’s College of Education.

In her spare time… That’s funny. Charity’s rarely-enjoyed hobbies include watching football, playing tennis, and enjoying dinner with her family. Meanwhile, she’ll continue focusing on building and sustaining K–20 CS education ecosystems that systematically identify and address disparities in opportunities, outcomes, and representation in computing education.

At-Large Rep (2020-24), Chair-elect (2024-25), Chair (2025-27)

Dr. Abigail Joseph

My CSTA Story

Since joining CSTA as a member in 2013, Abigail has continued to grow her involvement with the organization and commitment to championing equity and access to excellent inclusive CS education.  In 2016 she helped found a local chapter, CSTA San Mateo County, and was part of the inaugural cohort of Equity Fellows in 2019.  She has served on the Board of Directors since 2021 as an Appointed Board Member, K-8 Teacher Representative, and now At-Large Representative.  She is dedicated to creating pathways for everyone to feel empowered and see themselves in Computer Science by developing their CS story.

My Story

Dr. Abigail Joseph (she/her) has an extensive career as an educator in the California Bay Area as a teacher, coach, facilitator, and speaker. A recent career highlight is a TEDx talk, Ubuntu Innovation: A Beacon for Humanity. Abigail currently works as an Instructor for the Oracle Education Foundation designing project-based experiences for high school students that develop technical acumen through design thinking and futures thinking challenges. She is a CSTA Equity Fellow Alum and serves on the Board of Directors for CSTA and Maker Nexus, a local Silicon Valley community makerspace. In addition to pursuing her multiple artistic passions, as The Innovation Doctor, she finds joy in inspiring and empowering communities to use innovation to design and live connected lives filled with play, joy, and wonder. She enjoys innovating the possibilities of tomorrow with her husband in California. Follow her on social media at @drabigailjoseph.

State Department Representative (July 2024-June 2026)

Andrea Wilson Vazquez

My CSTA Story

I became involved with CSTA as a teacher who started volunteering with a local CS-focused nonprofit on the weekends. I was passionate about the need to bring CS into the K-12 school day so that all learners could experience the power of creating new things with technology and was excited to find others with similar vision! I soon joined my chapter’s leadership team and then got involved with national CSTA projects, including as an Equity Fellow (2022-23), CSforELs program facilitator, and most recently joined a team helping to update the CSTA coaching toolkit.

My Story

Andrea Wilson Vazquez is the Computer Science Specialist for the Minnesota Department of Education where she leads collaborative statewide initiatives that expand equitable and sustainable access to and participation in computer science education, K-12. She supports Minnesota schools and educators to provide high-quality CS education to prepare students for personal and professional success by developing computer science knowledge, skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Before joining MDE, Andrea was the Deputy Director of the ECEP ECEP Alliance and the Director of Educator Training and School Partnerships for a Minnesota-based nonprofit called Code Savvy. She has a passion for facilitating equity-focused computer science professional development and is experienced in strategic planning and resource development for K-12 computer science education programs. She also has over 10 years of experience in education and previously worked as a K-12 teacher and an instructional coach, with a specific focus on computer science ed, makerspace, and supporting K-12 English learners.

Teacher Education Representative (July 2026 – June 2028)

Brittany Templeton

My CSTA Story

Brittany Templeton’s CSTA story began at a Greater Houston Chapter meeting that sparked something powerful. She dove in immediately, later becoming Chapter Secretary and helping expand membership, strengthen community, and create inclusive professional learning that reimagined what CS could be. She supported teachers through certification prep and hands‑on accessibility work, always focused on making CS feel possible for everyone. In 2026, Brittany joined the CSTA Board of Directors, thrilled to give back to the community that shaped her as an educator. Her mission is simple: uplift CS teachers, amplify their voices, and build pathways for future leaders.

My Story

Brittany Templeton is an accomplished educator with more than 17 years of experience spanning Special Education, Mathematics, and multiple Science disciplines. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to empowering teachers and students through inquiry‑based learning, inclusive instructional practices, and meaningful engagement across all classrooms. Her work reflects a deep belief that every learner deserves access to high‑quality, inspiring educational experiences.

As the Assistant Director for Computer Science and Mathematics, Brittany collaborates with the Computer Science Secondary Certification Hubs, the Digital Health Workforce Initiative, Young Scholar Invent, and various STEM and Computer Science workshops. In this role, she focuses on expanding equitable STEM learning opportunities, strengthening teacher capacity, and supporting students as they prepare for rapidly evolving academic and career pathways. Her leadership includes developing professional learning, guiding educators through certification processes, and designing programs that make STEM accessible, relevant, and empowering.

Her professional journey is marked by a commitment to educational excellence, innovation, and service. She is passionate about helping educators feel confident, supported, and equipped to bring transformative learning experiences to their students.

Above all, Brittany is driven by a mission to create environments where both teachers and students can thrive. She continues to champion engaging, equitable, and forward‑thinking approaches to teaching and learning, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to discover their potential.

K–8 Representative (July 2023 – June 2025)

Carla Neely

My CSTA Story

Since joining CSTA in 2018, Carla has come to appreciate and respect how much scope computer science offers for students to add their own individuality and creativity. Carla believes that students need to be exposed to computer science beginning at the early grades, just as they require early exposure to learn a second language. Computer science needs to be equal and equitable for all students, and Carla considers herself an advocate for girls in computer science, especially girls of color and girls from other underrepresented communities.

My Story

Carla Neely is a 5th–8th–grade science and computer science teacher. She has found a way to integrate the two subjects together, resulting in memorable learning experiences for all of her students, and she now coaches teachers at her school to integrate computer science into core subjects. Carla is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. In her spare time she like to crochet and read books by Stephen King.

College/University Faculty Representative (July 2026 – June 2028)

Deborah Kariuki

My CSTA Story

CSTA has been an important part of my journey as a computer science educator, leader, and advocate. Through service in CSTA Texas, CSTA Maryland, and national committees, since 2012, I have found a community deeply committed to supporting teachers and expanding access to high-quality computer science education. My work as an assistant teaching professor, graduate program director, and teacher educator connects closely with CSTA’s mission because I care deeply about preparing strong educators and building pathways for students to thrive. CSTA has given me opportunities to lead, collaborate, and contribute to the field, and I am grateful to continue giving back through this community.

My Story

Deborah Kariuki is a Computer Science education leader whose career brings together software engineering, cybersecurity, academic leadership, and community service. With a professional background spanning industry, K-12, and higher education, she has dedicated her work to expanding access to computer science and cybersecurity education and to helping institutions build strong, future-ready programs.

She serves as an Assistant Teaching Professor, Graduate Program Director, and Director of Computer Science Education, where she leads curriculum development, supports students and faculty, and helps shape innovative pathways in computing education. Her work includes designing academic programs, developing courses, mentoring learners at different stages, and preparing educators to teach computer science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity with confidence.

Before entering academia, Deborah worked for many years as a software engineer and technology professional, an experience that continues to ground her leadership in practical knowledge and real-world problem-solving. She is also deeply engaged in cybersecurity education and outreach, with a focus on secure programming, cyber hygiene, inclusive teaching, and human-centered approaches to technology.

In addition to her institutional leadership, Deborah has served in numerous professional and community organizations that support underserved students in cybersecurity, K-12 computer science, and educator development. She is known for building partnerships, creating meaningful learning opportunities, and advocating for broader participation in computing.

As a board member, Deborah brings strategic thinking, technical expertise, collaborative leadership, and a strong commitment to service. She values mission-driven work and contributes a thoughtful perspective shaped by education, innovation, and a genuine desire to create lasting impact.

9–12 Board Representative (July 2023 – June 2027)

Delmar Wilson

My CSTA Story

Since becoming a CS teacher in 2017, Delmar has been a driving force in creating a more equitable computer science culture for students at his school. As a 2023 CSTA Equity Fellow, his dedication to increasing equity in computer science extends beyond the classroom. Delmar tirelessly advocates for underrepresented students and organizes extracurricular activities to engage and empower them. Through his work within and outside of the classroom, Delmar strives to break down barriers, empower underrepresented students, and cultivate an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and capable of achieving their dreams in the field of computer science.

My Story

Delmar Wilson has been a public school educator for seventeen years, and he has taught mathematics, AP Computer Science Principles, and Cambridge Thinking Skills at Miami Springs Senior High. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Delmar is chair of the math department, ESSAC chairperson, union steward, and head coach of boys’ varsity basketball.

As Delmar began working on his doctorate degree in 2013, he came to the realization that there weren’t enough minorities in computer science. He created an AP CSP course at his school and began by recruiting his ninth graders, none had ever dreamed of taking a computer science course, much less an AP course. Over the years, this course has become a student favorite, and in 2021 he started the school’s first Computer Science Honor Society. As a veteran teacher, Delmar continues to push CS forward by utilizing his CS Honor Society to broaden CS participation and by introducing students to CS during Computer Science Week. Delmar believes that computer science is not just for a select few; it is for everyone. It has the power to transcend boundaries, break barriers, and unlock the unlimited potential within each and every student. As teachers of the 21st century, we have a commitment to ensure that we are effectively preparing our students to be future leaders.

K-8 Teacher Representative (July 2026 –June 2028)

Dr. Tiffany Henderson

My CSTA Story

Joining the CSTA board in 2024 has been a transformative experience for Tiffany, reinforcing her dedication to advancing computer science education. Coming from a background where CS opportunities were offered but not taken advantage of, she is continually inspired by the commitment of CSTA members who strive to provide exceptional support to their students. This inspiration drives Tiffany’s advocacy for equitable access to quality CS education for all learners. Throughout her two-year term, she is committed to championing initiatives that empower educators and cultivate inclusive and innovative learning environments.

My Story

As a CSTA board member, with a robust background in computer science education and a commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments, Tiffany has spent the past sixteen years enhancing curricula and advocating for equitable access to STEM education. Her experience includes leading professional development workshops for educators, creating interdisciplinary learning modules, and collaborating with stakeholders to drive systemic change in schools. Passionate about empowering the next generation of computer scientists, Tiffany believes in the transformative power of education and is dedicated to supporting educators and students in achieving their full potential.

International Representative (July 2026 – June 2028)

Edwin De Guzman

My CSTA Story

My journey with the Computer Science Teachers Association began in 2011, when I was a young educator seeking growth. Through active participation in seminars, workshops, and curriculum use, I strengthened my teaching practice/career. In 2020, I joined CSTA Philippines as a regional member, and in 2021, I served as Vice President for Communications, leading teacher training, collaborations and partnerships.

Driven by my advocacy to improve CS education, I helped equip educators and enthusiasts nationwide.

In 2025, I was elected as President of the CSTA Philippines. I now lead collaborations with NGOs, the private sector, and the government to expand impact, build networks, and create more opportunities to grow and reach greater heights.

My journey with CSTA reflects a deep commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy. From a young teacher seeking growth to leading a national chapter, I remain dedicated to ensuring that every educator is equipped, every learner is empowered, and computer science education continues to thrive in the Philippines.

My Story

Mr. Edwin de Guzman has been serving the Academe for almost 17 years now. He has served the different institutions in the Philippines (NCR) as an Instructor, Researcher, Program Coordinator, and Dean. Mr. de Guzman is currently a Teaching Academic Staff at the University of Santo Tomas – Manila.

Currently, Mr. de Guzman is the new CSTA Philippines President. He was the former Vice-President for Communications of the Computer Science Teachers Association – Philippines. Also, he is the Vice-President for External Affairs of the Multimedia Arts Association of the Philippines (MMAAP) – NCR Chapter, the Director for Community Engagement of the Global Society of Modern Education, and a former Secretary of the Council of Deans for IT Education-NCR. Active members of the Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines, the Philippine e-Learning Society, and the PSITE and ICT Industry Council of the Philippines.

Moreover, Mr. de Guzman finished his BS in Information Technology at the University of the East & obtained his MS in Information Technology at Bulacan State University. He also earned his Doctorate in Information Technology at La Consolacion University Philippines-Malolos and received his Special Awards for Research Publication.

Mr. de Guzman has several research presentations and publications, both local and international. His research topics are software engineering, information systems, mobile applications, and artificial intelligence.

He is an Imagi Educator Ambassador. Lastly, he also earned different certification programs like MTA, MOS, MCP, IT Specialist in Database, and Google Certifed Educators 1 and 2, which are globally acknowledged.

Partner Representative, Microsoft (July 2023 – June 2025)

Jacqueline Russell

My CSTA Story

Jacqueline Russell attended her first CSTA conference in 2017, and she has been involved with CSTA as a sponsor, partner, volunteer, and member ever since. Jacqueline joined the Board of Directors in 2023 and is thrilled to be able, through this role, to give back to the community of CS teachers who changed her own life and who open doors for students everywhere.

My Story

Jacqueline Russell is a product manager for Microsoft Education. Jacqueline has worked at Microsoft since 2005 in various groups focused on technology in education. She is passionate about using technology to enable innovative learning experiences and bring increased creativity to teaching and learning. Jacqueline has worked in the tech industry for over 20 years as a developer, IT consultant, and product manager. She holds a computer science degree from Amherst College and an MBA from INSEAD. Outside of work, Jacqueline enjoys snowboarding, playing squash, and making and coding with her two young kids.

State Department Representative (July 2025-June 2027)

Lavita Williams

My CSTA Story

I joined CSTA in 2016 when I started teaching computer science and was the only CS teacher in my school. I was seeking a supportive community and professional development to strengthen my teaching and bring relevant skills to my students. CSTA gave me the resources, connections, and confidence to grow. I later led my district’s CS professional learning community and now serve as the Computer Science Program Lead at the Georgia Department of Education, where I advocate for equitable access to high-quality CS education while remaining rooted in the community that started it all.

My Story

Lavita Williams is an experienced educator and passionate advocate for equitable computer science (CS) education. With over 20 years in education, Lavita began teaching computer science in 2016 and quickly recognized the need for a strong professional community and quality professional development. As the only CS teacher in her school—and one of the few in her district—she joined the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) to deepen her content knowledge, refine her teaching practice, and connect with fellow educators across the country.

Her leadership in CS education grew as she led her district’s Computer Science Professional Learning Community, providing support and collaboration opportunities for educators expanding access to CS. Today, Lavita serves as the Computer Science Program Lead at the Georgia Department of Education, where she oversees statewide initiatives, supports educators, and works to ensure all students—regardless of background or zip code—have access to rigorous and relevant CS instruction.

Lavita is a CS4GA backbone member, a graduate of the GaDOE Aspiring Leaders cohort, and a dedicated contributor to state and national efforts to reimagine CS pathways for students. She has developed professional learning resources for school administrators and counselors to better support and promote CS education and regularly presents at conferences, including Georgia EdTech and CS Con.

Lavita’s work is grounded in her belief that computer science is for everyone and that empowering educators is key to unlocking opportunities for all students in our rapidly evolving digital world.

School District Representative (July 2026-June 2028)

Rachel Miller

My CSTA Story

Rachel Miller’s work in computer science education began as a third-grade teacher, where she was always looking for ways to help students become creators, not just consumers, of technology. She often collaborated with her school’s tech teacher, at the time, to bring new ideas into the classroom. Rachel was later hired onto a Research Practice Partnership to help lead the integration of computational thinking into K–5 classrooms, and she has remained deeply involved in this work over the past eight years. She has presented at CSTA and CSTA New England and continues to work alongside educators to expand access to meaningful computer science learning experiences.

My Story

Rachel Miller is an educational leader in Springfield Public Schools, MA, where she leads district-wide work in the implementation of the Digital Literacy and Computer Science (DLCS) standards and oversees Advanced Placement (AP) programming.

Her work in computer science education began as a third-grade teacher, when she joined a Research Practice Partnership focused on integrating computer science and computational thinking into K–5 classrooms. Over the past eight years, she has continued this work, helping to coordinate the development of elementary curriculum and working alongside educators to bring these experiences into classrooms in meaningful ways, including holding a yearly CS showcase!

That experience has shaped her path into district leadership, where she now supports administrators and educators across a large urban district serving over 24,000 students. She leads professional learning for both DLCS and AP, working to strengthen instructional practice, and expand access to rigorous coursework.

Rachel is especially passionate about early access to computer science and ensuring educators feel prepared and supported to bring this work into their classrooms.

She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) at American International College, where her research focuses on early computer science, equity, and long-term educational outcomes.

9-12 Teacher Representative (July 2026 – June 2028)

Maria Camarena

My CSTA Story

Maria’s CSTA journey began in 2019, when she sought to connect with other computer science teachers who were passionate about advocating for their communities. Since then, she has been involved in the Computer Science Honor Society (CSHS) Advisory Committee, the Awards Committee, and has had the honor of serving as a CSTA Impact Fellow. Through CSTA, Maria found leadership opportunities, connection, validation, and a network of educators united by one shared mission, bringing equitable computer science education to all students.

My Story

Maria Camarena is a secondary computer science teacher at Maywood Center for Enriched Studies in the Los Angeles Unified School District. She established a computer science pathway at her school focused on expanding access and disrupting inequities in STEM education, particularly for girls and Latinx students. Through initiatives such as the MaCES Girls Who Code Club and the Computer Science Honor Society, Maria works to create spaces where students feel seen, empowered, and inspired to pursue opportunities in computing.

Her accolades include the 2020 Computer Science Teachers Association/Infosys Teaching Excellence Award, the 2022 National Center for Women & Information Technology National Educator Award, and being named a 2024 LAUSD Teacher of the Year. She is also a proud CSTA Impact Fellow Alumni.
Beyond the classroom, Maria enjoys spending time with her family and creating favorite moments with the people she loves most. She also enjoys sharing her students’ accomplishments and advocating for equitable computer science education through social media at @csiseverywhere.

Admin/Coaches Subcommittee, 2025 Conference Committee; At-Large Representative (July 2023 – June 2027)

Rudy Escobar

My CSTA Story

Since joining CSTA, Rudy has been an active member of CSTA Sacramento and CSTA California Far North. As a tech manager, he provides technical support and promotes equitable access to computer science education. Rudy is also a leader in the CSTA LatinX Affinity Group and a member of the CSTA Policy Committee, contributing to discussions on advocacy, policy, and professional development. He is committed to CSTA’s mission of promoting high-quality CS education for all students.

My Story

Rudy Escobar is a STEM and computer science coordinator with expertise in STEM, particularly science, computer science, and engineering. With over a decade of experience, he is a highly accomplished educator who consistently advocates for equitable access to computer science and STEM education. Prior to his career in education, Rudy worked in the pharmaceutical, environmental, and food industries using his engineering, science, and computer science background. Rudy specializes in PreK–12 computer science, STEM, physical computing, robotics, project-based learning (PBL), engineering, science, NGSS assessments, and PBL curriculum development.

Rudy promotes computer science and STEM education in California through conferences, workshops, and initiatives, advocating for equitable opportunities for all students, particularly underrepresented ones. As a micro:bit champion he has directed micro:bit and science conferences. Rudy has developed resources, provided professional development, and created partnerships to promote computer science and STEM education throughout the state. He has developed distance learning resources and organized C-STEM camps for underrepresented students. Rudy has also collaborated with local universities to support future educators and tutors in STEM and computer science.

Rudy has also partnered with organizations to advocate for and develop project-based STEM lessons. He has provided support for English=language learners, Universal Design for Learning, and social-emotional learning in K–2 science and engineering lessons for the California Department of Education. Rudy’s expertise has been instrumental in evaluating and revising training tools and incorporating current trends and data into the standard curricula for science, computer science, and engineering.

CSTA Board Treasurer (July 2024 - June 2026)

Yolanda Lozano

My CSTA Story

I joined CSTA in 2018 when I began teaching in New Mexico. As the only CS teacher at my high school, I was thrilled to connect with like-minded educators statewide and nationally. Gradually, I became more involved, leveraging my programming experience to contribute to the group. This led to my role as president of the New Mexico chapter, and eventually, I was elected to the board.

My Story

Yolanda’s interest in computer science began as a TA for a technology course at the University of Michigan. She earned an MS in data modeling and Management from Carnegie Mellon, followed by roles at Rice University and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve. She later embraced an entrepreneurial challenge with a Harvard Business School tech/finance start-up, leading to its successful acquisition. After a career in software, retiring from Citrix Systems in corporate strategy, she now manages funding from NSF, USDA, and major tech companies to advance equitable CS education. Yolanda serves on the IEEE Quantum Education Committee, is a board member of Elevate Quantum Workforce Collaborative (EQWC), state representative for AI4K12, treasurer of the Computer Science Teachers Association, and teaches computer science at Gogebic Community College.