James Hayes

Founder and President

James is a motivated, high-energy professional possessing a strong record of program development, cultivating student learning and collaboration.  Through these, James is able to help connect businesses and education by providing career opportunities and work-based learning activities for students and faculty. James’ expertise has also allowed him to consult with numerous small businesses on business plan creation, website development, and marketing. 

Juan Ortiz

Event Management Specialist

Juan is a San Diego transplant currently working as a freelance events coordinator and as the director of marketing for a sharing economy startup. Juan grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts and enlisted in the Marine Corps as a helicopter mechanic shortly after high school. After being honorably discharged from his duty station in San Diego, Juan attended a local college for a degree in psychology and communications. When possible, Juan helps nonprofit organizations with marketing consulting and event logistics. He has a passion for volunteering and can often be seen enjoying french fries or a good bowl of mac n cheese.

Laura Roderickz

Data Visualization, Research & Evaluation Specialist

Laura is an analyst with a focus in data visualization using Tableau, she has a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit sector and is currently a full-time freelancer for smaller businesses and educational organizations. She collects and utilizes data to gather insights, write reports and create data visualizations. Extensive experience conducting qualitative interviews with industry leaders and business owners to run in-depth analysis on programmatic effects on businesses. Laura also has experience creating evaluation processes for programs which includes survey creation, client surveying, data analysis and reporting. 

Taryell Simmons

Workforce Development Specialist

Taryell Simmons is on a mission to help young people find their passion and peruse their purpose. Taryell believes that successful careers come from being connected to one's strengths, abilities, skills, and passion. This is why he has dedicated his career to exposing people to opportunities that will help them figure out paths to combine their talents with a career they love. Taryell is a RISE Urban Leadership Institute graduate.