About Andrea
Andrea first became involved in education as a dedicated parent, attending meetings, chairing committees, and volunteering at school events before expanding into leadership roles. Watching her own children progress through Orange Unified School District provided her with firsthand insight that exceptional schools are built by people who show up consistently and handle the essential work of getting things right. She ran for the Board in 2016 in a special election because she believed OUSD needed a trustee focused on students and the community experience. Ten years and two re-elections later, her commitment remains steadfast as she seeks to provide the stability our schools need now more than ever.
Deep Community Roots
Andrea was born and raised in Los Angeles and attended public schools from kindergarten through high school.  Her family operated small businesses in which she grew up helping,  She got her first job at the age of 13 at a gift shop, and understands what it means to work hard and stretch every dollar.  While studying at California State Los Angeles, she worked at a non-profit where she eventually met her husband.  She then worked in the publishing industry at both SELF and Vogue Magazine.Â
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In 1995, Andrea and her husband Tom made Orange their home and later moved down the road to Anaheim Hills where they currently reside.  When her first child was born, they made the decision for Andrea to stay home to raise their children while Tom fulfilled his extensive work and military travel commitments. Andrea raised her family here and watch her children graduate from OUSD. When she makes decisions as a Trustee, she does so as a long-term neighbor who is deeply invested in the community's future rather than as an outsider.
Andrea and Tom are proud parents of three children. Tom is a retired Lt. Colonel who served our country outside of the U.S. post- 9/11. During his service, the school community provided vital support to their family, a gesture Andrea has never forgotten. This personal experience drives her work, as she wants every family in Orange Unified to feel that same sense of belonging and support.
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Beyond her volunteer work, Andrea enjoys traveling, playing the piano, and spending quality time with her family and friends.  She believes that traveling is a vital part of growth, compassion, and peace.
Awards and Recognitions
Andrea is grateful and honored to receive the following recognition:
PTA Elected Official Honorary Service Award - Anaheim Hills Elementary School
PTA Golden Oak Honorary Service Award - Canyon High School
PTA Continuing Honorary Service Award - Canyon High School
Volunteer of the Year - Canyon High School 2012
PTA Continuing Honorary Service Award - Canyon High School
PTA Continuing Honorary Service Award - El Rancho Charter School
PTA Honorary Service Award - El Rancho Charter School
Volunteer of the Year Award - Nohl Canyon Elementary School
Anaheim City Council - Recognition for CARE
President's Volunteer Service Award 2015
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Community Involvement
Andrea is deeply involved in public education and community service, As a school board member, she regularly attends school events, meets with parent and community organizations, and prioritizes listening carefully to the concerns of those she serves. Andrea also works with local non-profits/organizations to create partnerships to expand opportunities for students.Â
Current Positions and Involvement
Orange Unified Legislative Coalition - 7 years
Asian Pacific Islander School Board Members Association ,
    President and Board Member - 9 years
Orange Unified Council of PTA, Executive Board Member - 15 years
Orange County School Boards Association, Board Member- 1 year
CA School Boards Association, Council of Presidents - 4 years
Public Schools Defenders Hub, Advisory Board Member - 2 years
Canyon High School Foundation Board Member - 10 years
S.T.A.R.S. - Science, Technology and Arts Foundation Running Springs Foundation
    Board Member, 8 years
Toastmasters Board - 3 years
Member of various Parent Groups
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Past Positions and Involvement
CARE - Community Advancement for Renovation and Education - Co-Founder
El Rancho Charter School PTA Board Member and President
Canyon High School PTA Board Member and PresidentÂ
Nohl Canyon School Association Executive Board MemberÂ
   Vice President, After School Programs, Programs, Room Parent, 6th grade Committee
Orange Unified District Advisory Committee Member
Canyon High School Girls Basketball Booster Board Member
Girl Scout Troop Volunteer and Leader
National League of Young Men, Board Member
Mom's ClubÂ
Asian Pacific Women's Network, Board Member
