Summer Search is thrilled to announce that Jean Lee has been named the new National Board Chair. She succeeds outgoing Chair Teke Kelley after six years of dedicated service to the organization. As we embrace this transition, we are guided by one of our core values, “Practicing Gratitude”. We are deeply grateful for Teke’s steady leadership, partnership, and commitment to Summer Search and we are excited to welcome Jean into this role. Her experience, perspective, and longstanding dedication to our mission position her well to lead the board into this next chapter.

Celebrating Teke Kelley’s Leadership

Teke began his service as National Board Chair in March 2020, just as Summer Search and communities across the country were navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout his six years as Chair, Summer Search benefited from his consistent and steady leadership, immense care for our community, and deep belief in our mission.

Throughout his tenure, Teke has shown up and leaned in to guide the organization through some of the most significant moments in its recent history, including the challenges of the pandemic, the search for and transition to CEO Ursulina Ramirez, and efforts to strengthen the organization’s financial foundation. Through it all, he consistently championed the well-being of staff and remained steadfast on ensuring Summer Searchers continued to receive the support they needed during critical transitions in their lives.

We are deeply grateful for Teke’s time, care, and leadership, and for the strong foundation he leaves for the board and organization moving forward.

Teke speaking at the Summer Search North Bay Gala in 2018

Welcoming Jean Lee

Jean has long been committed to expanding opportunities for young people and strengthening communities. She has served on the Seattle and National Boards of Summer Search since 2021, including as Chair of the National Talent Committee. She also serves as a Board Trustee and former Treasurer of PwC Foundation, supporting initiatives that create lasting impact in communities across the country.

Known for her collaborative leadership style, Jean believes meaningful change happens when people are empowered to learn, grow, and contribute their unique strengths. Her expertise spans organizational change, workforce strategy, leadership development, and large-scale learning and transformation programs.

Her longstanding commitment to Summer Search, combined with her experience and perspective, will be invaluable as the board continues to support the organization’s mission and future growth. We are excited to welcome Jean as National Board Chair and look forward to the leadership she will bring in the years ahead.

Jean leading a session at the 2025 Alumni Summit

Jean recently shared:

“I am deeply honored to serve as Summer Search’s next National Board Chair and grateful to Teke for the strength, steadiness, and heart he has brought to this organization. He has led Summer Search through meaningful moments of change, and I know I have big shoes to fill as he passes the baton.

As I step into this role, I am excited to lead with curiosity, collaboration, and care. Summer Search’s mission is as important as ever, and I look forward to partnering with Ursulina, the board, staff, and our community as we continue to grow and serve more young people in the years ahead.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Teke and the entire Kelley family for their years of service and leadership, and we warmly welcome Jean as she begins her term as National Board Chair. We are grateful for the strong partnership, guidance, and care that both leaders have brought to Summer Search, and we look forward to the future with Jean at the helm.