Boost Board of Directors
Tony Brekke
President of the Board (Haas MBA ’03) – VP Dodge & Cox
“Boost has been a critical resource for under-served Bay Area youth for over 35 years. Without it, thousands of qualified, deserving kids would have faced a more challenging path to achieving their college dreams. Beyond that, sponsoring and supporting this type of initiative helps Haas to stand out as not only a premier business school, but one that strives to be a contributing participant in the local community. Boost makes me proud to be a Haas alum.”
Olive Davis
(Retired) Program Director, Berkeley Business Academy for Youth
“I’m committed to Boost at Haas because talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t always equally accessible. As an undergraduate at Berkeley Haas, I was involved with Boost and witnessed firsthand the impact it had on high school students’ lives. Seeing students build confidence, expand their aspirations, and recognize their potential reinforced my belief in the power of access and mentorship. It’s inspiring to now serve as a Board member of an organization that invests in future business leaders and is committed to helping students see what’s possible.”
Cathy Garza
Consultant
“I am committed to the work Boost does to ensure that more low income, first generation high schoolers are made aware of and supported in post secondary educational pathways. Boost’s four year program does an excellent job preparing students for life (practical business and personal finance skills) and for college (application support, financial aid resources, and campus tours.) As a low income, first generation student, I had the good fortune of having an engaged and committed high school counselor help me launch my college journey. High school counselors are not always available these days; Boost fills that gap and more!”
Marco Lindsey
Associate Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Haas School of Business
“Boost’s work is important because it creates opportunities for young people to thrive now and in the future. More importantly, Boost is instilling a new sense of belief in its scholars. They are learning not only that they can attend college, but that they are the kind of people who belong in college. To me, that is the real game changer they need.”
Vanessa Lopez
Founder and CEO of Vamos College Advising
“Boost’s work is transformative because it serves as a trusted resource, helping students navigate important decisions while building on their strengths, goals and aspirations.”
Peter Molloy
Lecturer in Entrepreneurship, Haas School of Business
“I grew up in England and was shocked to see how low upward socioeconomic mobility is in the US. Only 5-10% of students move from the bottom quintile into middle class. By giving these Boost scholars a great pre-college education that number can jump significantly.”
Dr. Frank Schultz
Lecturer and Distinguished Teaching Fellow, Haas School of Business
“I am committed to Boost because access to education is a catalyst that transforms individuals, families, and entire communities. Yet, the pathway forward is often opaque to those unfamiliar with the process. Boost does the critical work of illuminating that path—providing the clarity, motivation, and encouragement students and families need to confidently pursue more knowledge and skills.”
Emeritus Executive Board Member
