About The Black Parents Association
About the Black Parents Association
The Black Parents Association (BPA) of the San Mateo Union High School District is a vibrant, multi-ethnic volunteer community of parents, guardians, faculty, staff, students, and allies. A shared mission unites us: to create equitable and inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. BPA connects and empowers families, engages community leaders, and works hand-in-hand with faculty and staff to confront and dismantle educational, racial, and social inequities. We serve as the bridge that brings these diverse voices together, offering tools, resources, and unwavering support to help shape the next generation of leaders.
Our focus centers on uplifting and supporting low- to moderate-income high school students across San Mateo County—especially those who are underrepresented and underserved and seeking mentorship and guidance throughout their high school and college journey.
Why Our Work Matters
Our students face systemic challenges that create deep disparities in their educational experience. They navigate environments where they are often underrepresented—lacking peers, faculty, and curriculum that reflect their identities. They are underserved by systems that overlook the economic, family, and neighborhood realities they confront daily. As a result, many experience feelings of isolation and a diminished sense of belonging, making it difficult to fully engage and excel academically.
These challenges are compounded by the rising cost of living in San Mateo County and the financial barriers that put higher education out of reach for many families. Without intentional support, the pathway to college and beyond becomes increasingly difficult to navigate.
How BPA Makes a Difference
To address these critical needs, BPA provides a range of comprehensive programs and services throughout the school year, including:
- Leadership Development and Mentorship – Empowering students to lead and mentor younger peers, fostering confidence and resilience.
- College Readiness Resources – Equipping families with timely information and tools to navigate the journey to higher education.
- Scholarship Opportunities – Awarding financial support to eligible graduating seniors to ease the burden of college costs.
- Community Forums and Advocacy – Hosting quarterly forums that gather input from students, families, and educators to shape and improve our programs.
- Equity Advisory Leadership – Serving on the Equity Advisory Committee to advocate for policies that drive meaningful, lasting change.
At BPA, when students feel seen, supported, and empowered, they are capable of achieving extraordinary things. Our work is rooted in a deep commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed—not just academically but in life.
Board of Directors
Dr. Charles Hansen
Board President
Dr. Charles Hansen is a seasoned nonprofit executive leader with over 20 years of experience driving organizational success, fostering equity, and empowering communities. As Chief Program Officer at Peninsula Family Service since 2022, Dr. Hansen has led transformative initiatives, including Youth Financial Empowerment and expanded access to subsidized childcare, senior services, financial empowerment, and mental health programs across San Mateo County.
A first-generation college graduate and the child of an immigrant parent from Ghana, Dr. Hansen holds an MBA and a Doctorate in Social Work. His career includes leadership roles with the YMCA, Salvation Army, and Boys & Girls Club, where he achieved significant fundraising milestones and expanded community impact.
Dr. Hansen also serves on the County Civil Service Commission, San Mateo Unified High School District Equity Advisory Committee, and as a San Francisco Foundation Koshland Fellow, helping to direct $300,000 in equity-focused investments into the community. Known for his commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, he inspires teams and fosters environments rooted in ethical service, transparency, and active listening.
Dr. Hansen joined the Black Parents Association to advocate for policies that drive meaningful change and to help build a stronger sense of belonging for students who often feel isolated in their educational journey. His commitment to equity and creating opportunities for all students aligns seamlessly with BPA’s mission, making his involvement a powerful extension of his dedication to community empowerment.
Joy Pasamonte Henry
Secretary
Joy Pasamonte Henry, who immigrated to the U.S. in her early twenties, has been a resident of Millbrae for over ten years. She grew up on military bases in Japan and a US Embassy Compound in Indonesia.
She is a product manager for a financial institution during the day, with experience in project and product management, communications, contract negotiations, and marketing.
Her volunteer work spans a multitude of areas that she is deeply passionate about: financial literacy, civil liberties, and equity in education advocacy. Joy volunteers for and sits on the Board of Directors for the ACLU Northern California – North Peninsula Chapter, Fixin’ San Mateo County (a non-profit working on oversight in San Mateo County), Mills High School, The SMUHSD Black Parents Association, and the Millbrae Community Foundation.
Joy’s three daughters influence and shape her decisions to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves, to work towards racial and social equity, and to make every effort to be a flawed but kind, compassionate human.
She is excited to be a part of the Black Parents Association – empowering and supporting the Black and mixed-race students of the San Mateo Union High School District.
Elena Cistrunk
Treasurer
As a Sr. Specialist in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Aristocrat Technologies, I’ve spent over two decades championing innovation and inclusion—starting in the Design & Development and Learning Solutions departments before finding my home in People & Culture. My 21 years with the company taught me the art of adaptability, teamwork, and gracefully navigating corporate coffee machines.
When not fostering equity and inclusion, I’m juggling life with my son and our feisty dog, and sharing space (and laughs) with my brother and my four-legged nephew. As an aspiring homesteader, I love getting my hands dirty in the garden, dreaming of the day I trade conference calls for chickens and cucumbers!
I joined the Black Parents Association board because I am passionate about ensuring that all students get access to the resources they need to be successful in college and beyond, and I look forward to serving our community.
We are dedicated to promoting quality education for our students.
Support us today!
Over the past four decades, The Black Parents Association (BPA) of the San Mateo Union High School District has helped students to seek and afford opportunities for higher education. Our Association provides scholarships, scholastic resources, leadership skills, book awards, and mentorship to our students. Join us today to bring the change we want to see in the world. Let’s bring equity in action!