Who We Are
Summer Search is a national nonprofit dedicated to igniting the potential of high school students from under-resourced communities.
Through long-term, fully funded support—including professional mentorship and transformative experiential learning—we equip young people with the skills, confidence, and networks to navigate life’s challenges, pursue higher education and career opportunities, and lead lives of purpose.
How We Make A Difference
Through professional mentorship and hands-on outdoor and experiential learning opportunities, we are closing the educational inequity and opportunity gap by empowering young people to lead lives of purpose and chart their own path to success.
Our Mission
Summer Search ignites students’ potential through mentoring and transformative experiences.
Our Vision
We envision a world where all young people, regardless of circumstances, have the opportunity to thrive and lead a life of purpose.
See our Impact
Each year, we grow together in reach, outcomes, and community.
Check out the milestones Summer Searchers are reaching and see the latest in our Annual Report and alumni survey.
of the Class of 2024 earned high school diplomas.
earned a Bachelor's Degree within
compared to 21% of their peers.
are employed within
of earning their highest degree.
Summer Searchers graduate with less than
* Compared to average borrowers between the ages of 25-34 years with an average debt of $33,260
We’re always looking for passionate people who believe in the power of transforming students into young leaders.
If you’re ready to make an impact as part of our team while growing alongside a mission-driven program — we’d love to hear from you.
Our People
Behind every student is a dedicated team of staff, mentors, and community partners who believe in their potential and work tirelessly to provide the support they need to succeed.
Janique Morrison
Post-Secondary Program Coordinator
Angel Munguia
Post-Secondary Program Coordinator
Destynee Oakley
Program Associate
Trisha Paulino
Program Associate
Julian Perez
Senior Post Secondary Program Coordinator
Sheakira Perry-West
Senior Program Manager
Skaina Pierre
Program Associate
Samantha Pimentel
School and Community Engagement Coordinator
Valerie Polanco
Senior Director of Development
Nancy Polio
Director of Regional Operations
Jaylin Prescott
Senior Program Operations Coordinator
Leeyan Redwood
School & Community Engagement Manager
Stephany Rodriguez
Career Navigator and Internship Manager
Gee Salas
Senior Post-Secondary Program Manager | Bay Area
Adriana Salse
Senior Post-Secondary Program Coordinator
Jocelyn Sanchez
Senior Post-Secondary Success Coordinator
Catherine Smith
Program Associate
Zavi Smith
Senior Program Manager
Carly Solberg
Program Coordinator
Julia Staron
Program Associate
Kiana Taylor
Program Associate
Josue Theosmy
Program Associate & Alumni Board Member
Jasmine Toussaint
Regional Program Director
Jen Tribbet
Senior Program Associate
Darlyne Vasquez
Post-Secondary Program Coordinator
Kierra West
Post-Secondary Mentor
Orneno Wright-Threats
Program Associate
For Students
& Families
Learn more about how our program builds bright futures for students.
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Join us in creating lasting change helping students thrive and lead with purpose.
Partner with us
Make an impact for the next generation of community leaders with experience and opportunities that lead to success.