Teens of Color Abroad (TOCA) Announces New Board Members for 2025–2028 Term
[Brooklyn, March 18, 2025] – Teens of Color Abroad (TOCA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding global language learning, study abroad, and cultural exchange opportunities for students of color, is proud to announce its new Board of Directors for the 2025–2028 term. This distinguished group brings a wealth of experience across education, marketing, nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, and global engagement.
“Our ten new board members are exceptionally committed to TOCA’s mission. They are undoubtedly a strong team of leaders who will maximize the impact of our work in the lives of the young people we serve and the communities in which they live,” said TOCA Founder and Executive Director, Lamar Shambley. “I want to express my full gratitude to our previous board members who built the foundation for TOCA to proudly march forward into a bright future.”
The new board members include:
Dr. Shené V. Owens – Director of Student Affairs, University of Virginia. Dr. Owens is an educator, mentor, and advocate with over 15 years in higher education, focusing on student success, belonging, and social justice.
Carla Partlow – Director, University of Maryland. With expertise in educational counseling and HR, Carla is passionate about helping students find their strengths and develop global perspectives through international learning.
Sydney Blake Thomas – Senior Manager, Brand Marketing, BÉIS. A marketing leader, Sydney specializes in brand partnerships, activations, and experiences that create authentic audience connections.
Esayas Wureta – Head of Inclusion & Belonging and Community Impact, CSAA Insurance Group. With a background in diversity, philanthropy, and intercultural training, Esayas has worked across 65 countries, leading global inclusion efforts.
Martine Charles – Senior Leadership Development Manager. Martine is a leadership development expert dedicated to fostering inclusive and innovative work cultures while supporting global education initiatives.
Harry Alvarez – Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Offbeat Travel. With over a decade in the travel industry, Harry is committed to making travel accessible and culturally immersive for students and communities.
Kyle Kastler – Associate Director, University of Maryland. Kyle oversees global learning programs, ensuring students have access to international education opportunities. He has extensive experience in study-abroad initiatives.
Sharon Chae Haver – Senior Director, Slalom. With a background in strategy and organizational development, Sharon has led initiatives in education, workforce development, and leadership training.
Dr. Rickkay King – Managing Director of Operations & School Development, New Schools for Virginia. An education leader, Dr. King has co-founded charter schools and nonprofit organizations focused on equitable access to learning.
Lisa Cohen – Co-Founder, Open Horizon. A longtime intercultural educator and facilitator, Lisa has led diversity and inclusion initiatives at Peace Corps and AFS Intercultural Programs.
Each board member will contribute their expertise to TOCA’s various committees, including Culture, Development, Finance, and Governance, ensuring the organization continues to grow and create meaningful opportunities for students of color to engage with the world.
Since its founding, TOCA has awarded over $400,000 in scholarships and provided life-changing global experiences for over 1,000 students. The newly appointed board will be key in advancing TOCA’s vision and expanding its impact in the years ahead.
For more information about TOCA and its programs, visit www.teensofcolorabroad.org
About TOCA
Teens of Color Abroad (TOCA) is a nonprofit organization that provides global language learning and cultural exchange opportunities for students of color. By offering scholarships, immersive study abroad experiences, and educational resources, TOCA aims to bridge gaps in global education and empower the next generation of culturally competent leaders.
Media Contact:
Shena Delgado
Director of Marketing
shena@teensofcolorabroad.org
