Kelsey Hernandez (she/they) joins EdTrust-West as an LA Partnerships and Engagement Associate. Kelsey brings a background in communications, event planning, and program operations to the team. Most recently, she worked as a Volunteer Coordinator, managing volunteer efforts to support programs for unhoused individuals and those from low-income backgrounds. Growing up in Boyle Heights, a community facing poverty, injustice, and limited growth, Kelsey developed a strong determination to give back and promote prosperity. Her early involvement in the community exposed her to both its beauties and inequities, particularly in education. Kelsey remains committed to addressing barriers within the education system and advocating for the success of students of color and multilingual learners. She believes in influencing policymakers to adopt a more equity-minded approach, challenging the “it’s good enough” mentality that often pushes students out of the classroom. As a proud first-generation college graduate, Kelsey earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Reflecting on the 6th Education Equity Forum and 25 Years of Action
Martine Blake
Oct. 1, 2026
By Martine Blake As a new member of the EdTrust-West Team, I eagerly looked forward to this year’s Ed Equity Forum. I’d expected lively conversations and
