Our Staff Team

Emily founded SJCC in 2021 and has led the organization since day one. With a background in community organizing and non-profit management (previously with local reentry and housing advocacy groups), she oversees strategy, partnerships, and fundraising. Emily has been instrumental in amplifying the successes of San Jose's Cannabis Equity Business Academy graduates and advocating for sustained support through state grants (e.g., the $1M+ grant accepted by the City in 2024 for startup assistance). She holds a Master's in Public Policy from UC Berkeley and lives in East San Jose.

Michael manages our core programs: Equity & Inclusion, Harm Reduction, and Youth Prevention. A former equity applicant himself, he brings firsthand insight into barriers faced by those with past cannabis convictions. He coordinates workshops, mentorship for equity licensees, and resources aligned with San Jose Police Department's Division of Cannabis Regulation guidelines. Michael has helped dozens of residents navigate registration phases post-2024 lottery selection. He holds a certification in Substance Use Prevention and is based in Downtown San Jose.

Sarah handles all external messaging, social media, newsletters, website content, and event promotion. With experience in digital advocacy for environmental and social justice causes, she ensures our education materials are accessible, accurate, and stigma-reducing. Sarah regularly highlights local updates (e.g., alignment with 2025 state reforms on labeling and taxes) and community stories from neighborhoods like Willow Glen and North San Jose. She graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Communications.

David focuses on neighborhood engagement, volunteer coordination, and grassroots partnerships. He organizes monthly meetups, pop-up education tables, and collaborations with community centers across San Jose (from Almaden Valley to Evergreen). Drawing from his background in veteran services and local activism, David ensures programs reach underrepresented groups, including seniors and veterans interested in medical cannabis access. He tracks impact metrics and supports reporting for potential future state equity grants.

Lisa develops and delivers our educational content, from Cannabis 101 webinars to parent resources and senior series. A former public school teacher with expertise in health education, she ensures all materials are evidence-based (drawing from CDPH, DCC, and NORML sources) and culturally sensitive. Lisa has expanded our online resource library and led sessions on responsible use amid evolving regulations. She holds a credential in Health Education and volunteers in her South San Jose community.