Overview

Rachelle Manning

Director, SanMar Sports

Rachelle joined SanMar in 2013 and currently serves as the Director of the Sporting Goods Division, SanMar Sports.

With a wealth of expertise in sporting goods and apparel, she offers invaluable insights into the industry. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from Sacramento State University, where she was a dual-sport athlete, playing both softball and basketball. Rachelle later earned her master’s degree from the University of Tennessee, where her thesis, “Marketing Intercollegiate Women’s Softball: Important Considerations,” played a pivotal role in supporting the addition of softball at the university. Today, Tennessee Softball is one of the most successful programs in the SEC and Division I Softball.

April Alimadadian

Executive Experiences Program Manager at Meta

April is passionate about creating unforgettable experiences that showcase Meta’s innovative vision for the metaverse. As a dedicated member of the Executive Briefing Program team, she expertly manages cross-functional operations teams to deliver impactful events and exclusive offerings during briefings. With over five years of experience managing events at Meta, April has a proven track record of success. She single-handedly developed Meta’s business tours program from the ground up and even built an internal events tool to streamline operational efficiencies. In her free time, April loves being an aunt to her three-year-old niece and nephew. Watching them grow and explore their creativity inspires her in all aspects of life.

Christy Baird

Fire Technology Instructor/Coordinator at College of San Mateo

Christy Baird has taught and coordinated Fire Technology at the College of San Mateo for 26 years. She previously spent 24 years as a firefighter with the City of Palo Alto, retiring as a Fire Captain on Engine 66. She also served as a training captain, engineer, firefighter, and Hazmat Specialist, and was part of Task Force 3 for a decade. A proud Livermore native, Christy lives in Walnut Creek with her wife of 22 years, Heather. Their two sons, Dyllan and Cole, have followed in her firefighting footsteps. Dyllan, 29, is a firefighter for Palo Alto, while Cole, 22, works for CAL FIRE. Before finding her passion for firefighting, Christy explored careers as a child care director, cruise ship staff member, collegiate women’s soccer coach, bartender, casino dealer, and even sold vacuums door-to-door. Her journey reflects her belief that the real adventure is in embracing the path along the way.

Aisha Baro

Executive Director at Life Science Cares Bay Area

With over 20 years of experience in Business and Biotech, Aisha is the Executive Director of Life Science Cares in the Bay Area, an organization that catalyze Life Sciences companies into giving back in the community through grants, employee volunteer engagements and an internship program that provides opportunity to underserved students to enter Biotech companies. Aisha spent 17 years at Roche Pharmaceuticals and Genentech before she pivoted her career to launch the Bay Area chapter of Life Science Cares. Outside of work, Aisha is an engaged citizen active in local politics and a mother to a vibrant 8-year-old girl.

Karen Decker

Economic and Community Vitality Manager at City of Half Moon Bay

Karen is a dynamic leader with 20+ years of experience driving initiatives and securing community victories in the nonprofit and government sectors. As Economic and Community Development Manager for Half Moon Bay, she leads the Coastside Recovery Initiative, raising $6M for impactful projects. Previously, she spent 15 years in nonprofits, holding leadership roles at Asian American Recovery Services and HealthRIGHT 360, where she developed a risk management program for 800 employees and advised on merger negotiations. Known for her exceptional communication skills, she excels in strategic planning and mentoring. Karen holds a graduate degree in Ethnic Studies and a bachelor’s in Human Communication. She enjoys the Coastal Trail with her husband and two sons.

Nina Lang

VP, Business Community Manager at City National Bank

Nina has more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, focusing on commercial lending, relationship management and business development. Nina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and is passionate about assisting small businesses with achieving their financial plans by curating a customized strategy, and providing the necessary tools and resources to bridge financial gaps. Her client-centric approach enables her to cultivate lasting relationships with clients, and to provide support through various business stages. Outside of work she loves spending time with her 4 year old son and husband. In her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga and working out.

Vanessa Vargas Siega

Student Doctor at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine