Team Member

Niki Lomibao Director, People & Cultre Why did you become involved in this organization?  I joined Candelen because I’ve seen firsthand the organization’s impact on early childhood education in Arizona. Having started my nonprofit career supporting the Quality First Coaching…

Mindy Zapata Director, Programmatic Expansion Why did you become involved in this organization?  I became involved with Candelen because I deeply believe in the power of early childhood education and the importance of supporting caregivers and families during the most…

Marilou Cleland Accounting Director Why did you become involved in this organization?  Being a part of an organization that supports the community is fulfilling. I became part of Candelen because I know the organization is making a lasting impact on…

Ruth Ray Program Director Why did you become involved in this organization? I became involved with Candelen because its mission and vision deeply align with my own values and experiences in early childhood education. Throughout my own journey in this…

Rob Podlogar Chief Executive Officer Why did you become involved in the organization? The span of work that Candelen oversees was the big draw for me wanting to be part of the organization. We are making an impact on individuals,…

Kavita Bernstein Chief Impact Officer Why did you become involved in this organization? I became involved in this organization because its mission aligns deeply with my belief that every child and family deserves equitable access to support, education, and opportunity…

Angela Tapia Program Director What did you become involved in this organization? I joined this organization because its mission deeply resonated with me. I’ve always believed in the power of community to create lasting change and wanted to be part…

Omar Saif Chief Financial Officer Why did you become involved in this organization? I became involved in Candelen because I saw an opportunity to strengthen the organization’s financial foundation in support of its mission. As CFO, my focus has been…