Monica is the Founder, Executive Director, and President of EmpowerED Alternatives. She has over 25 years of experience in education and community mobilizing as a teacher, principal, associate director, college faculty, and educational consultant in the US and China. Monica started in Hartford at the Institute for Community Research, training teens in Youth Participatory Action Research. In 2001, she became an educator in Hartford Public Schools. Most of her time as a teacher has been in alternative education. As a principal of a turnaround school, Monica engaged the students, staff and community in school improvement. Monica earned a BS in biochemistry from Oklahoma State University, an MPH from Yale University, and an EdD from the University of Hartford.

Randi is a dedicated leader in the field of education with extensive experience in special education, student services, and alternative education. Randi ‘s background includes classroom teaching at every grade level, serving as the Principal for Alternative Schools and Programs for a large urban district, and as a District Director of Student Service. She is a dedicated advocate for children with a focus on educational access, mental health, and inclusive support systems. Randi’s career has focused on creating equitable educational environments and advocating for the well-being and success of all students, particularly those with special needs. 

Maria is a first-generation college graduate with Mexican roots and also a product of Hartford Public Schools. Her passion for education started on a high school trip to South Africa. While visiting the townships, she witnessed students living in poverty and struggling to access basic education, but they had a spark in their eyes and were eager to learn. This experience led her to over a decade of service in education as a middle school educator in Hartford. She is currently a middle school math interventionist in East Hartford. She believes all students should have access to education, feel empowered, and should be given the educational opportunities and tools to be successful. Someone in her educational experience took a chance on her and helped her find opportunities to develop those tools, and she wants to provide the same opportunities for youth like her.

Liz is the Program Director for COMPASS Youth Collaborative in Hartford, CT. In 1995, during the height of Hartford’s gang wars, Liz co-founded The Southend Knightriders Youth Center, which later became COMPASS, advocating to build a space for young people in her city. Since then, she continues to advocate for youth in her community. She has received the SINA Neighborhood Service Award and the Humanitarian Award from Springfield College. Liz holds a degree in Human Services Springfield College and a Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Goodwin University.

Charlize (Liz) is a teen who has experienced traditional and alternative education. In middle school, Liz was a model student, receiving high honors in her classes and earning student of the month several times. Then, high school happened, and something changed. One day during her 10th grade year, she went to an alternative education class and stayed there because students in the class did things together, talked about what was happening in the school and checked in on how people were feeling. This resulted in Liz and others in the class stepping up in leadership, helping develop a school-wide Student Health and Wellness Day. The project gave them a sense of importance and a way to have their own voice heard. Currently, Liz is continuing her education online, pursuing her high school diploma. 

Dr. Marcus L. Ware, an accomplished educational leader, brings over a decade of experience in transforming K-12 public schools to drive academic excellence and foster inclusive learning environments. Dr. Ware is currently the Superintendent of Chicopee Public Schools. Prior to his role in Chicopee, Dr. Ware has served as the Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives at Windham Public Schools, was the Assistant Principal and Principal at Windham Middle School, and served as Head of School at Springfield’s Commonwealth Academy. He holds an Associates from Springfield Technical Community College, a Bachelor's in Arts from Western Connecticut State University, a Master's in Education from Cambridge College, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of Hartford.

Clarissabeth Heredia is a Hartford-born and raised resident, business developer, and property management professional with over 15 years of experience in real estate operations, tenant relations, and community engagement. Her work sits at the intersection of housing, economic opportunity, and community development, where she has consistently focused on creating pathways for individuals and families to access stability and opportunities for growth.

​

Throughout her career, Clarissabeth has led initiatives, built strategic relationships, and advocated for solutions that strengthen neighborhoods and support long-term community impact. She brings a results-driven mindset, a deep understanding of the local landscape, and a commitment to advancing equitable opportunities for the communities she serves.

​

Clarissabeth is passionate about using her voice, experience, and network to drive meaningful change. As a member of the EmpowerED Alternatives Board of Directors, she looks forward to supporting the organization’s mission through leadership, collaboration, and action.

Michael S. is a student leader, scholar, and global ambassador whose intelligence, compassion, and maturity have distinguished him throughout his academic and community experiences. Michael is recognized for his intellectual curiosity, strong communication skills, and commitment to service. He has represented his school and community through Model UN, debate, public speaking, the arts, and student leadership initiatives, consistently earning praise for his poise, thoughtfulness, and ability to connect with others. In February 2026, Michael served as a Youth Ambassador with EmpowerED Alternatives during the Global Learning Institute in China, helping facilitate cross-cultural learning and engagement. He returned as a Youth Ambassador Leader for the 2026 Summer Global Learning Institute: China. Michael attends Westminster School, where he plans to continue pursuing academic excellence and leadership opportunities. As the youngest member of the EmpowerED Alternatives Board of Directors, Michael brings a powerful youth voice, a global perspective, and a deep commitment to educational opportunity and youth leadership.