Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in August ’25 

About Gwynth:Ìý
Dr. Gwynth R. Nelson is the State Executive Director at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). A native of Indianapolis, Gwynth brings over 15 years of experience as a senior manager, educator, and fundraiser. Her professional journey has included leading roles in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and organizational development, where she built strong community and cross-sector partnerships—from corporations and foundations to government and faith-based organizations.Ìý

A lifelong advocate for educational equity, Gwynth has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in business administration and strategic management, equipping future leaders with the tools to drive impact. 

As State Executive Director, Gwynth oversees ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA’s statewide strategy to ensure students and communities across Washington thrive. Guided by the belief that every student deserves to be surrounded by a caring community and the resources to succeed, she is committed to advancing equity, collaboration, and innovation in public education through her leadership.Ìý

Outside of work: 
Gwynth is an avid reader, traveler, and lifelong learner. She enjoys discovering new places and perspectives, often finding inspiration for her work in the stories and experiences of others. Whether curled up with a book or exploring a new city, she finds joy in the journey. 

You just read Dr. Gwynth R. Nelson on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in October ’23 

About Erica:ÌýAs Deputy Director, Erica oversees statewide program impact, expansion, and ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA’s policy and advocacy initiatives. She brings more than a decade of experience in leadership, program development, impact measurement, and change management—guided by a deep commitment to equity and systemic change.

Prior to joining ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA, Erica focused her career on supporting youth and young adults experiencing homelessness in King County, WA. She led wraparound service programs that promoted stability and opportunity for vulnerable populations. Erica has served on the Washington State Advisory Board for the Office of Homeless Youth (OHY) and currently sits on the Board of Directors for Why Not You Academy. She continues to work closely with local legislators, service providers, and community leaders to strengthen policy and improve service delivery across the state.

Erica is passionate about dismantling systems of oppression and co-creating culturally responsive services that reflect the needs and strengths of young people. Her leadership has driven initiatives such as program redesign, expanded workforce development pathways for undocumented youth, and the integration of healing-centered engagement practices into youth services. At ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA, she launched the Leaders of Color/Lived Experience Professional Development Scholarship, which empowers emerging leaders with lived experience.

Her work is deeply personal. Erica’s journey through foster care and homelessness fuels her dedication to ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA’s mission and to creating meaningful change. Her lived experience, combined with her professional expertise, is foundational to her leadership.

Outside of work: Erica, an outgoing introvert, finds joy in concerts, favoring stage left views due to her husband’s role as an audio engineer. Her adventurous spirit thrives on travel, and she cherishes time spent with her two nieces and one nephew. Despite not being a strong swimmer, she relishes being near water and hiking. An avid reader of young adult novels, Erica also enjoys discovering new recipes on TikTok and passionately supports the Raiders, Lakers, and recently, hockey. In both personal and professional realms, she exudes warmth, recently celebrating her marriage to her best friend of over ten years.​

You just read Erica Limón-Trefielo on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Re-joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in July ’23

About Carina:ÌýCarina Raddatz is the Development Director at Communities InÌýSchools of Washington (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). Carina’s career journey began in meeting andÌýevent management, evolving through roles at UW Stout, the Greater Green BayÌýChamber of Commerce, and hospital systems, where she honed her skills inÌýsponsorships, event logistics, and program management. Her passion for deeperÌýand more meaningful engagements led her to discover a love for fundraising.Ìý Ìý​

As the Development Director, Carina oversees the implementation of a comprehensive fund development plan, nurtures corporate and foundation relationships, and coordinates individual giving programs. She collaborates with the Board Resource Development Committee to leverage board member talents and connections. Actively fostering a culture of teamwork and community-centric fundraising, she represents Washington in national ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ initiatives and partnerships. Carina’s unwavering commitment to the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ mission is evident as she contributes to annual projects such as the #AllinforKids gala and various giving initiatives, showcasing her dedication to philanthropy, leadership, and community engagement in her role as Development Director, thereby contributing to the success and growth of Communities In Schools of Washington. â€‹

Outside of work: Carina volunteers as a beach naturalist with the Seattle Aquarium and enjoys beach camping, hiking, tidepooling, crafting, gardening, and reading.  Carina and her husband, Sam, dream of living abroad in Italy someday. The couple, originally from Wisconsin, now resides in Washington with their three fur babies—Sonny, Pip, and Groot. â€‹

You just read Carina Raddatz on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in July ’18​

About Kayla:ÌýKayla McKinney is the Director of Finance and Operations at Communities InÌýSchools of Washington (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). After college, Kayla started as a personal trainer, quicklyÌýrealizing her natural talent for managing finances and operations. This shift inÌýresponsibilities led her to take charge of the fitness facility’s finances and operations. HerÌýfinancial expertise can be traced back to her upbringing, where her mother had a successfulÌýcareer in finance, covering roles from banking to managing accounts receivables for aÌýprominent nonprofit.​

As a Director of Finance and Operations, Kayla manages various critical projects throughout the year, showcasing her diverse skill set. Her responsibilities include:​

• Conducting audits.​
• Creating budgets for the State Office and emerging affiliates.​
• Managing payroll.​
• Providing IT support.​
• Overseeing accounts receivable/accounts payable processes.​

Kayla loves working with numbers, budgets, and spreadsheets. She’s organized and feels satisfied with working with financial data. Kayla is driven and goal-oriented, ensuring that numbers match up perfectly. She takes pride in her professional expertise and enjoys bringing clarity and structure to the financial landscape at Communities In Schools of Washington.​

Outside of work: Kayla likes to create quilts and knit, and she also enjoys snowboarding and hiking. In her free time, she likes to watch football and support her favorite teams. Kayla is very close to her family, especially her husband, relatives, and nieces. She also loves going to tropical places and visiting Disneyland. Her ultimate dream is to live on a farm where she can grow her own food and flowers. Kayla was born in Spokane, WA, and grew up in Maple Valley, WA. 

You just read Kayla McKinney on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in OctoberÌý‘25

About Deb:ÌýDeb is the Grants Manager at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). Her journey into communications and writing began with a lifelong love of stories—an appreciation that naturally led her to study English literature. Over time, she discovered a fascination with how powerful words can be when used thoughtfully and intentionally, which inspired her to pursue a graduate degree in Communication Studies.​

Before joining ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA, Deb built a rich and varied career in communications, development, and nonprofit leadership. She began her professional path in retail management and communications roles at organizations such as Hamilton College,ÌýCondé Nast, and a graphic design firm. After earning her master’s degree and raising her family, she joined the Kids Discovery Museum on Bainbridge Island, where she spent more than a decade growing the organization’s fundraising programs as Deputy Director. Later, as a Grant Writer for Boys & Girls Clubs of King County, she wrote and managed more than 75 grant applications each year—developing deep expertise in youth development, education, and philanthropy.​

Deb brings to ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA extensive experience in grant writing, fundraising, and storytelling. In her role as Grants Manager, she:​

• Manages multiple grant projects and deadlines throughout the year.​
• Develops compelling proposals and reports that reflect the mission and impact of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA and its affiliates.​
• Collaborates with colleagues and partners to prepare strong, data-driven funding requests.​
• Builds and maintains relationships with funders to support ongoing organizational growth.​

Deb finds it most rewarding to tell the story of the organization through grant proposals—celebrating progress, highlighting impact, and helping to make meaningful work possible.ÌýShe isÌýdeeply aligned with the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ mission, believing that every student deserves access to education and opportunity.​

Outside of work:ÌýDeb enjoys watching baseball and football, going to the movies, listening to live music, walking along the water, and catching up with friends. A creative at heart,Ìýshe’sÌýoften knitting, quilting, or trying out new craft projects she finds on Pinterest. She also loves exploring Bainbridge Island on her e-bike—often with her dog, Kona, riding along in a backpack for the adventure.

You just read Deb Baker on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in July ’24

About Grace:ÌýGrace Fritzke (she/her) serves as the Data & Implementation Specialist at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). She holds a BA in Religion from Whitman College and an MA in History of American Religions from Syracuse University. Grace’s academic background is complemented by her interest in data and management support, developed through her work on academic theses and her involvement with the Toppled Monuments Archive, an initiative focused on cataloging contested statues across the United States.​

Grace’s passion for education began early in her life, volunteering at her elementary school during middle school and tutoring peers throughout high school. Her career journey includes roles in elementary, middle, and high schools, where she gained valuable experience in data management and helped others navigate systems and databases. As she transitions into her role at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA, Grace is excited to focus on training, technical assistance, and data management, while continuing to explore the full scope of her responsibilities.​

Outside of work: Grace enjoys dancing, playing pickleball, and spending time with her three cats—Tuesday, Ori, and Tarri. She and her husband, Nick, love tackling house projects together and hosting BBQs for friends. Raised in a suburb of Portland, Oregon, Grace is known for her supportive nature and her nearly six-foot-tall stature!

You just read Grace Fritzke on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in May ’24

About Joanie: Joanie Fuller (She/Her) is the Admin Support Coordinator at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ, bringing a rich background in psychology and social work to her role. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Joanie began her career as a preschool teacher at an inclusive center, which ignited her passion for supporting children with diverse backgrounds and abilities. This experience inspired her to pursue a Master’s in Social Work, aiming to address systemic issues and promote equity within communities. Joanie’s professional journey includes extensive administrative and organizational support roles in community-based programs, where she honed her skills in volunteer coordination, program management, data management, grant writing, organizational development, and financial administrative support.​

At ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ, Joanie thrives in her multifaceted role, coordinating meetings and conferences, providing technical support, assisting with reconciliation processes, and handling various office administrative tasks. Her favorite aspect of the job is the opportunity to be a flexible and versatile support system, enhancing the impactful community work conducted by her colleagues. Joanie finds great fulfillment in using her skills to empower and bolster the dedicated efforts of those working directly with marginalized populations, ensuring the organization’s mission is carried out effectively and compassionately.​

Outside of work:  Joanie Fuller cherishes quality time with her family and friends, especially when it involves playing board games and enjoying delicious food. A former college rugby player who played fullback, Joanie is also the second oldest of seven siblings, with five younger brothers. She shares her life with her husband, their two young children, and a feisty cat named K’nuckles. Born in Chattanooga, TN, Joanie spent her childhood in Iowa before moving to the Eastside during middle school. One of her personal dreams is to travel more with her kids, creating lasting memories and exploring new places together.

You just read Joanie Fuller on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in Aug. ’22​

About Nova:ÌýNova Hernandez brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role as theÌýPeople Partner for Communities in Schools of Washington (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). Nova’s career journeyÌýreflects her unwavering dedication to education and connecting people of all ages withÌýeducational opportunities. During her university years, she served as a field representativeÌýfor the University of Maryland in Germany, assisting military students in navigating theirÌýacademic journey. Transitioning into her first HR role with the same university, NovaÌýspecialized in recruiting and onboarding employees across the European theater.​

Upon returning to the U.S., Nova ventured into the for-profit sector but felt a strong pullÌýtowards the nonprofit realm, aiming to leverage her skills acquired through her Master’s inÌýPublic Administration. Volunteering on the grant committee for Communities In Schools ofÌýTacoma, she was crucial in researching and writing grants. Nova’s dedication andÌýexpertiseÌýdid notÌýgo unnoticed, leading her to a full-time role as the Director of StrategicÌýImpact with ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Tacoma, where she served as the executive director from 2020-2022.​

Currently, Nova oversees various projects throughout the year, including benefitsÌýadministration, HR shared services in the network, and providing direct HR support forÌýemerging affiliates and state office teams. Her favorite aspect of the job lies in theÌýmission-driven environment, where each team member, regardless of their role, shares aÌýcommon purpose and commitment to serving youth and advancing educational equityÌýthrough their contributions to the organization’s work.​

Outside of work: When the weather is pleasant, Nova can often be found at the park or playground, spending quality time with her husband, two wonderful children, and their dog, Lucy. She’s an avid cook, traveler, and enjoys immersing herself in new cultures. Born in Vancouver, she has lived in Washington most of her life, except for a brief time in Germany.​

You just read Nova Hernandez on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

​Joined  the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in Oct. ’23 â€‹

About Reema:ÌýReema brings a wealth of expertise and a decade-long careerÌýjourney in marketing and communications to her role at Communities In SchoolsÌýof Washington (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). Armed with a degree in Marketing and Communications,ÌýReema has finely tuned her internal and external communications skills,Ìýmastering PR and social media strategies through successful collaborations withÌýglobally recognized brands such as Gatorade, Meta, Microsoft, Nike, andÌýOld Spice. She has dedicated her talents to pro-bono clients,Ìýincluding the Compton Girls Club, Travel Portland, Travel Oregon, and TheÌýAmerican Indian College Fund.​

At ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ, Reema spearheads numerous projects throughout the year, leading the planning, creation, development, and implementation of the organization’s internal and external communications and marketing strategies. Her passion for the job is evident in her favorite aspect – the ability to bring her full background and expertise to the table professionally and personally. Reema takes pride in leveraging the well-honed skill sets and tools she has developed to generate awareness, enhance ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ visibility, ensure continuity across the WA Network, and contribute to successful fundraising and brand visibility for the organization. Her dedication and strategic insights are vital in promoting the mission and impact of Communities In Schools in Washington.​

Outside of work: Reema is a Pacific Northwest native who loves to travel and experience different cultures. She is into cycling, skiing, yoga, and pilates. She volunteers with local retirement homes, participates in United Way Donation Days, and contributes to Project Hope for the Homeless. She enjoys art history, ceramics, and painting. She dreams of restoring a mid-century modern home and sharing her life with her husband, Jeff, and their Bernese Mountain Dog, Loowit.​

You just read Reema Patel on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in Oct. ’24

About Megan: Megan brings over 13 years of experience as a Graphic Artist for Spokane Public Schools and two years as the Digital Marketing Manager for Canopy Credit Union. Now, as the Marketing & Communications Coordinator at the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office, she plays a pivotal role in developing and implementing ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA’s graphic design needs, web content, social media strategy, email marketing, and other special projects. With her extensive background and up-to-date knowledge of the latest trends and best practices, Megan ensures ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA’s marketing and communications efforts stay ahead of the curve and effectively achieve their objectives.​

In addition to her roles in these organizations, Megan launched an online ecommerce business in 2010, selling handmade products and digital crafting patterns. She also works as a freelance marketing and graphic design contractor, collaborating with various marketing agencies and clients across industries. Driven by a passion for contributing to her local community, Megan excels in roles that allow her to creatively make a difference.​

​Outside of work: Megan loves to travel, with a special fondness for Scotland, which she visits whenever she can. She’s an avid reader—especially of horror—enjoys theater, rock concerts, and can’t go a day without multiple cups of tea. She also has a soft spot for all things Barbie.​

A unique fact about Megan is that she spent three years of her childhood living in a tent without running water or consistent electricity, an experience that deeply shaped her resilience. While Megan has achieved much in her career, she still holds onto her childhood dream of becoming an author.​

Her family includes her supportive husband, Nick, and two Disney-loving daughters, Ivy (9) and Aurora (5). Megan grew up in rural Stevens County (Valley/Chewelah) and moved to Spokane at 16 after the passing of her mother.

You just read Megan Petersen on ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.