Meet Our Board of Directors

GIRLS EDUCATION FUND INC 501C(3)

  • Francie’s journey from Vietnam to the U.S. and eventually Puerto Vallarta is a testament to her resilience and entrepreneurial drive. After achieving great success in the corporate world, including serving as president of a $500 million company and holding senior positions at major retailers like Crate & Barrel, she moved to Mexico eight years ago to pursue a new lifestyle. It was here that she founded Bonito Kitchen, her first restaurant, which quickly became one of Vallarta’s most beloved establishments.

    Beyond her business achievements, Francie has always been committed to helping those in need. Her volunteer efforts span from soup kitchens to disaster relief, and she has raised funds to support schools in remote villages. During the pandemic, she co-founded the first food bank in Vallarta, providing vital food to the community in a time of crisis.

    Her work with the food bank highlighted the critical need for more opportunities for girls. Francie firmly believes that when girls have access to the support and resources they deserve, entire communities prosper. This conviction drives her dedication to the Vallarta School for Girls, which she sees as a transformative force for positive change, empowering future generations of women leaders and inspiring hope in the community.

  • Thomas Barnes is a retired lawyer with over 30 years of experience in the legal profession. Most of his career was dedicated to Nationwide Insurance, where he focused on tax and employee benefit issues for nearly two decades before transitioning to corporate governance matters. Thomas concluded his tenure at Nationwide as Senior Vice President, Assistant to the CEO, and Secretary.

     

    In addition to his professional achievements, Thomas has a long history of community involvement, serving on the boards of several nonprofit organizations. His contributions include the Columbus Chapter of the American Red Cross, a Columbus halfway house, and an organization committed to preventing child abuse. Notably, Thomas secured the initial 501(c)(3) designations from the Internal Revenue Service for two organizations, furthering their missions and impact.

     

    Thomas began his academic journey at the U.S. Air Force Academy before transferring to The Ohio State University, where he earned a degree in Political Science. He went on to attend The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, graduating with honors.

     


  • Linda Ellerbee, a trailblazing journalist, Emmy-winning producer, and best-selling author, has dedicated her career to empowering women and amplifying their voices. Now enjoying an active retirement in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and the Berkshires in Massachusetts, Ellerbee continues to inspire with her legacy.

    Starting at the Associated Press in 1972, she quickly rose to prominence as a national political correspondent for NBC News and anchor of NBC News Overnight, celebrated for its intelligence and sharp writing. Her groundbreaking work earned her multiple accolades, including an Emmy for the ABC historical series Our World.

    In 1987, Ellerbee founded Lucky Duck Productions, creating documentaries and launching the Emmy-winning Nick News, known for tackling tough issues with honesty. Her series When I Was a Girl, celebrated women’s stories, earning further acclaim.

    Ellerbee also authored books such as Move On, chronicling her life as a single working mother, and Take Big Bites, a humorous exploration of travel and culture.

    Even after retiring in 2015, Ellerbee’s voice remains influential, encouraging women worldwide to embrace change, challenge norms, and uplift one another.

    DUPLICATE

  • Deborah Cole, a consultant, writer, and photographer, divides her time between Austin, Texas, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. After 35 years in commercial construction and maintenance, Deborah transitioned from business owner to advocate, offering her expertise to support women in business. She holds degrees from Kilgore College, the University of Texas, and post-graduate degrees from Texas A&M University and the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest.

    Throughout her career, Deborah grew her business to the top 25 in its industry and served on community boards, always dedicated to service. As an author of three books, Deborah uses her writing, teaching, and documentary-style photography to educate and inspire. Her photography is exhibited in galleries in Texas and New York, further showcasing her creative talents.

    Deborah continues to empower women in business, offering guidance and sharing her wealth of experience to uplift others in their entrepreneurial journeys.

Meet Our Advisory Board

  • Cecil Kerfont holds an undergraduate degree in liberal arts and a master’s in counseling psychology. He has spent his career in executive roles in the non-profit sector, most recently as VP with the Canadian Cancer Society, where he led a team that raised 100 million dollars for cancer research. In addition, he has run a private counseling practice for the past twenty years, assisting people with various mental health issues.

    Cecil spends his winters in Puerto Vallarta, where he is involved in raising money for various causes. His current passion is helping to start a school for young girls. His motto is "education equates freedom."

  • Marsha Meadows, an educator and philanthropist, has dedicated her life to empowering communities through education and inclusion. A Brenau University graduate with additional studies at the University of the Americas in Mexico City, she began her career teaching English in Georgia, later transitioning to ESL instruction in Houston to support individuals from diverse backgrounds.

    Beyond teaching, Marsha led scholarship programs at Citizens National Bank, helping low- and moderate-income students access higher education. Her volunteer efforts in Houston and Highlands, North Carolina, focused on uplifting Hispanic communities and fostering cultural understanding.

    Marsha’s passions for travel, martial arts, and philanthropy reflect her commitment to growth and community impact.

    As a valued member of our board of advisors, Marsha brings unparalleled dedication and experience, inspiring meaningful change and advancing opportunities for women and underserved communities.

  • Dr. Luján has dedicated over 30 years to empowering children, young adults, and women through education. Holding a Doctorate in Education from the University of California, a Master's in Elementary Education, and a Bachelor's in Spanish Literature from Colorado College, she has made significant contributions to global education.

    Throughout her career, Dr. Luján has held leadership roles at American schools worldwide, including the American School Foundation in Mexico City, Schutz American School in Alexandria, Egypt, and the American School of Las Palmas in the Canary Islands. She currently serves as the International Academic Coordinator for Endicott College’s Master’s Degree Programs in International Administration, focusing on developing leaders, especially women, in education.

    Dr. Luján has also conducted over forty accreditation visits for NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges), ensuring educational standards worldwide. She lives between Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Denver, Colorado, continuing her mission to elevate education and support women in leadership.

  • Tricia retired from the real estate industry in Northeast Washington in 2012. After a year of "country shopping," Tricia and her husband, Mike, made Vallarta their permanent home in December 2013, marking a decade since the move. In 2014, Tricia created the Facebook group "Puerto Vallarta: Everything You Need or Want to Know," now with over 150,000 members worldwide, providing a positive resource for residents and visitors.

    With a 25-year career in real estate, Tricia worked as an Asset Manager, Paralegal, Commercial Underwriter, and independent broker. Originally from Missouri, she has lived in various U.S. locations with her two children.

    Tricia and Mike are active in Vallarta, supporting the arts, engaging with Democrats Abroad, and contributing to local charitable causes. Recently, Tricia launched a website dedicated to being a comprehensive resource for the Vallarta community, expanding her commitment to supporting and informing locals and visitors alike.

  • Chiara retired in 2015 and married her best friend, Tom. In 2018, they settled in Puerto Vallarta. With a diverse career in real estate and building contracting, Chiara also raised five children and now enjoys three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A published author and active blogger, she founded The Turning Point Integrated Therapies and Celebrations Weddings & Ceremonies.

    Chiara has been a dedicated community leader, serving as Board President for 'Our School' and Vice President of the Next Level Youth Association. A strong advocate for social justice, she founded The Stand On 6th Ave and served as President of The Pleneurethics Society. She is currently Vice President of the Vallarta Garden Club.

    Passionate about women’s leadership, Chiara participates in meditation and women’s leadership circles. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and celebrating life with friends, always valuing empathy and meaningful connections.

  • Richard "Randy" Lee, a New Mexico native with a Marketing degree from New Mexico State University, has a diverse background in ranching, Quarter Horse breeding, family restaurants, and energy ventures. From 2006 to 2018, he worked with a California restaurant group before relocating to Puerto Vallarta.

    Randy and his husband Gabriel Romero (a Mexico City Native) now call Puerto Vallarta home and currently work for Hogar Realtors while also managing their real estate portfolios in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City and New Mexico.

    Shifting to a hybrid lifestyle focused on giving back, Randy and Gabriel support Vallarta Food Bank, Vallarta Gay+ Community Center, and volunteer for animal rescue with Horizon Helpers. They recently embraced supporting the Vallarta School for Girls, reflecting their commitment to fostering education, growth, and opportunity in the community they love.

  • With over 50 years in the entertainment industry, Kevin-Anthony has made his mark as both a performer and entrepreneur. His vocal talents and dynamic performances have captivated audiences in 28 countries, with notable Broadway and National Tour credits including Miss Saigon, Grease, Dreamgirls, and Saturday Night Fever. He was also featured at the White House for President Clinton and Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton. Kevin’s leading roles earned rave reviews from major newspapers such as USA Today, The New York Times, and The Washington Post.

    As an entrepreneur, Kevin-Anthony co-founded B2: Productions, which produced Black 2: Broadway in New York City. He has been a booking agent, securing opportunities for artists like George Clinton, Anita Baker, and Jennifer Holliday. Now a prominent figure in Puerto Vallarta’s artist community, Kevin-Anthony continues to headline top venues while producing and performing his own shows.

  • Denise, originally from North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Canada, has been dedicated to working with children since her teenage years. She obtained a Bachelor of Education in 1987 and initially taught in a Canadian elementary school. After relocating to Japan with her husband, Al, Denise continued her career before returning to Canada, where she served as an elementary school administrator for seven years. In 2006, Denise and Al spent six months in Mexico, where she volunteered to teach conversational English in Mazatlan. They later settled in Puerto Vallarta, where Denise contributed to a local orphanage. During Canadian summers, Denise also worked as a Teacher Therapist for young offenders in custody.

    Denise feels blessed to have had the opportunity to teach children in diverse learning environments and cultures. She is honored to be part of a team dedicated to educating young girls in Puerto Vallarta, embracing this exciting new chapter in her life.

  • Elva is a respected executive with over 38 years of experience in the technology industry, having retired from Verizon after holding various leadership roles in external affairs, foundation, public policy, and communications. Throughout her career, she provided oversight to corporate policies and strategies, ensuring their success.

    Elva has been deeply involved in community service, particularly in empowering diverse and underserved groups. She has served on several nonprofit boards, including the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Los Angeles League of Women Voters, Casa de Esperanza, and the Children’s Museum of Los Angeles.

    Her dedication to community empowerment has earned her numerous awards, including recognition from the National Latina Women Business Association, Sacramento Urban League, and Pomona Valley Boys and Girls Club. Elva holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from the University of LaVerne and a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from California Lutheran University, both magna cum laude.

  • Derek Carkner, a Toronto native, has called Puerto Vallarta home for the past seven years, blending his career as a real estate agent with a passion for the arts. A talented actor, singer, and pianist, he collaborates with top vocalists in the city, sharing his artistic talents on stage. Derek also expresses his creativity through writing and photography, with his work featured in publications like Out & About Vallarta, Vivo Vallarta, and the PV Mirror.

    A committed philanthropist, Derek is deeply involved in charitable efforts. With two decades of experience in Canada's not-for-profit sector, he dedicates his time to causes such as the food bank, river cleanups, animal rescue, children’s shelters, and toy drives. His efforts make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need.

    Derek’s contributions to both the arts and humanitarian work embody his dedication to his community and his compassion for others.

  • Cassandra Shaw, a creative woman entrepreneur originally from Vancouver, BC, moved to Puerto Vallarta in 1999, driven by her passion for jewelry design and the arts. She established her gallery and jewelry boutique in the historic heart of Vallarta, making it a cultural landmark in the city.

    As an artist, Cassandra's work spans vibrant paintings and stunning jewelry designs. Her paintings explore light and shadow through bold, layered colors, while her jewelry incorporates natural stones, fossils, and bones, celebrating Mexico's renowned silver craftsmanship. Each piece reflects her unique artistic vision and dedication to creating meaningful art.

    In addition to her entrepreneurial spirit, Cassandra is deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting local causes and giving back to her community. As a successful woman entrepreneur in Mexico, she continues to inspire through her creative endeavors and commitment to enriching both the arts and her community.

Martha Angel, School Administror

Our Staff

Staff

Psychologist - Elizabeth Casillas

Accountant - Karla Romero Amaral

Cook - Veronica Meza

Magda Farias Romero, Head Teacher

Teachers

Jova Vega Zamora

Gabriela Judith Ruiz

Lucia Lara Lopez

Esther Liliana Marquez