Board of Directors

Board Chair, Teacher Education Representative (July 2022 – June 2026)

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.

Board Chair Elect (2024-2025); K–8 Teacher Representative (July 2022 – June 2026)

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.

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.

9–12 Board Representative (July 2023 – June 2025)

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 2024-June 2026)

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 (October 2022 – June 2026)

Edge Angeles

My CSTA Story

Although Edge had attended CSTA conferences and became a bag stuffer in Omaha in 2018, he didn’t really know what to expect, or that it would lead him to love the people who were involved. From stuffing bags to meeting with CSTA’s executive director to leading the first non-American CSTA chapter to serving on the board, Edge is inspired to keep going by the people he shares the love with and the people who share it along the way.

My Story

Edge is currently a licensed high school CS teacher, and he has been teaching CS and computer education since 2005. He has taught at several of the premier private high schools in the Philippines, and he spent a considerable amount of time teaching theoretical CS and software development at the tertiary level. While working at the university level, Edge contributed to the recommendations for the curricula of bachelor’s degrees in computer science and entertainment and multimedia computing. Edge now works to generate computer science content and curricula at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

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.

9-12 Teacher Representative (July 2024-June 2026)

Kimberly Hermans

My CSTA Story

Being the only computer science teacher at her school, Kimberly was eager to connect to other computer science teachers, even if that meant driving over an hour on a Saturday morning to attend the closest CSTA meeting back in 2012. In 2018, Kimberly was able to attend her first CSTA Conference, where she presented on Google Firebase. Kimberly was inspired by the community of educators at the conference, and soon after joined a newly chartered local CSTA chapter closer to her home. She has since been involved with CSTA, presenting at conferences and serving as a representative to CSTA GLA.

My Story

Kimberly Hermans has taught AP Computer Science A for 14 years and AP Computer Science Principles since the pilot program’s inception in 2013. She also has 7 years of experience lecturing computer science at California State University, Fullerton, and the University of California, Irvine. In addition to educating students, Kimberly helps to support other teachers through her work in a program to help preservice teachers pursuing computer science credentials in California and serving as a College Board consultant and mentor.
Kimberly is a former Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow where she served her fellowship at the National Science Foundation in the Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) directorate. She helped to support programs that broadened participation in computing. Kimberly has a deep passion for working in broadening participation in computing, and continues that work through her current role as the Community College Working Group facilitator for Expanding Computer Science Education Pathways (ECEP).
Outside of the computer science education world, you can probably find Kimberly on or in the water, as she loves the beach and has traveled the world to SCUBA dive.

College/University Faculty Representative (July 2024-June 2026)

Lauren Bricker

My CSTA Story

I was hired as a High School CS teacher in 2007 with a PhD but no formal teacher training. I was a “team of 1”, struggling to adapt college curriculum to suit my students in an accessible and inclusive way. Fortunately, I heard about the local (Puget Sound) CSTA chapter forming and was invited to join. I have been a member and part of the leadership team in at-large, secretary, treasurer, and president positions since then. CSTA national and local chapters are invaluable communities for educators who teach computing, and I’m so pleased to be a part of them.

My Story

Dr. Lauren Bricker is in her eighth year as an Associate Teaching Professor in the Allen School at the University of Washington after teaching middle and high school Computer Science (CS) for ten years. She primarily teaches Introductory Computing, Interactions Programming, Web Development, and also facilitates CS teacher training workshops.  Her other passions include 3D Modeling and Printing, designing Makerspaces, and Computer Graphics. Dr. Bricker was recognized as one of three GeekWire STEM Educators of the year in May, 2021, was featured as Geekwire’s “Geek of the Week” in January, 2012, has been invited to give talks at Ignite Seattle, NerdNite, Fremont Women in Tech, and Maker Faire Seattle, and was interviewed as part of Code.org’s Equity in Computer Science video. She is also the president of the Puget Sound Computer Science Teacher’s Association, a chapter of ACM’s CSTA, and serves on their board of directors as the University Representative. Prior to teaching, she worked as a software engineer, consultant and manager for companies large and small. Dr. Bricker holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from University of Washington, and B.S. in Theoretical Math from the University of Michigan. When not working she’ll either be found on her bicycle or running, with a cat on her lap while crafting (mostly knitting or crocheting), or with her family.

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 2024-June 2026)

Rachel Pauley

My CSTA Story

Joining CSTA was a significant milestone in my career. My passion for technology began at 10 with a Commodore 64 computer, sparking a lifelong interest in computer science. As the Director of Technology for Raleigh County Schools, I see the transformative power of computer science education daily. The dedication and innovative spirit of our teachers reinforce my belief in equitable access to computer science education for every student. CSTA supports and guides teachers, and through my involvement, I advocate for high-quality programs to ensure every student can explore and excel in this critical field.

My Story

Rachel Pauley holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership from Concord University, a Technology Education Certification from Fairmont State College, and is CCNA certified. Her career is dedicated to advancing technology and STEM education. Joining CSTA ignited her passion for computer science education.

As the Director of Technology for Raleigh County Schools, Rachel manages daily operations, budget oversight, and the implementation of computer science and STEM programs. She has partnered with the West Virginia University Center for Excellence in STEM Education and the West Virginia University Institute of Technology, securing National Science Foundation CSforAll grants to introduce computer science in middle schools.

Rachel’s leadership experience includes roles as a teacher, coach, Digital Learning Coordinator, and Principal at Beckley-Stratton Middle School. She has strengthened school-community relations and provided professional development for integrating technology and STEM education into the curriculum. Her advocacy for equitable access to computer science education is evident in her efforts to promote high-quality programs in her district.

Rachel believes in the transformative power of computer science education. She is inspired by the dedication and innovation of computer science teachers, whose commitment ensures all students have the opportunity to excel in this critical field.

Outside of work, Rachel enjoys golfing, reading, and working with the homeless through her Hopeful Hearts Outreach. She is excited about the support CSTA provides to teachers and is committed to ensuring every student has access to high-quality computer science education.

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

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.