•Pioneer Award •

EDUCATION:  Juris Doctor, University of Southern California Gould School of Law; BA, Political Science, University of California, Berkeley.

Ms. Anna Park, Esquire is an exemplary figure in STEM advocacy and leadership in the non-profit world. She has made significant contributions through her work with the University of Southern California STEM Consortium, and as a valued member of the California State University, Los Angeles Dean’s Executive Advisory Council for the College of Engineering, Computer Science & Technology. Her impact extends further through her involvement with the UC Berkeley Class of 2021 Legacy Gala Honorary Committee and her role as Principal Investigator for the National Science Foundation ASSIST and INCLUDES grants.

Anna is also a dedicated member of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Committee and has served as an expert panelist for numerous national STEM and educational conferences. Her expertise has been sought at the highest levels, including service on the White House FC-STEM Non-Profit Subcommittee for the Federal Coordination in STEM Education and the White House Council on Women and Girls.

She has been a keynote speaker at Hispanic Heritage Events, U.S. News & World Report conferences, K-20 education events, and national STEM roundtables. In 2012, her leadership was recognized when she was named one of the 100 Women Leaders in STEM by STEMconnector™.  She remains an active alumna at both institutions and contributes as an annual judge for the International Latino Book Awards.

However, she is perhaps best know for her tenure as Operations Manager and later Chief Executive Officer and Board Member for Great Minds in STEM. If GMiS Founders Ray and Carmela Mellado were the heart and soul of the organization, then for 20 years Anna was its spine and brain.

Under her leadership, Great Minds in STEM withstood significant challenges—from hurricanes in Houston and demonstrators in New Orleans, to labor strikes, and even a global pandemic. Through it all, Anna skillfully navigated these trials, ensuring the acquisition of MentorNet, keeping staff employed during COVID-19, and successfully transitioning to virtual programs.

Along the way, she’s earned the particular admiration of young female college students as they see in her a reflection of their own potential. Her ability to move seamlessly among corporate, academic, and government executives, as well as K-12 students, educators and families, has been truly pioneering in the non-profit space.