Cecilia Melgares has always been passionate about assisting students achieve their academic potential by creating structured environments in which they can thrive. As a native of Los Angeles who grew up attending inner city schools as well as the first female in her family to go to college, she has seen first hand how powerful education can be. She believes that every individual, regardless of their socioeconomic background, color, or age, can achieve at high levels if they are willing to rise above and beyond traditional expectations.

Ms. Melgares received her bachelor’s degree in Literature and Education from University of California, San Diego in 2010. Previously, she worked as a School Business Operations Manager at KIPP Academy of Opportunity in South Los Angeles, where she managed operations at a middle school across two campuses. There, she learned the value of providing and developing operational excellence in an academic setting to produce high student achievement. She understands that operations and school functionality serve as the foundation of a school and it is crucial to provide a safe learning environment for students.

In her free time Ms. Melgares enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, experiencing unique culinary creations and traveling. She started as a founding member of Equitas #3 and is now the Managing Director of Operations.