Meet the team

Horizons San Diego is led by an enthusiastic Board of Directors and staff, who work to set strategic priorities, fundraise, and support our program.

Our faculty and staff are dedicated, passionate, and most especially, deeply committed to our mission.

As a growing organization, we add new faculty and staff every year so please visit our jobs page if you are interested in joining our team.

  • My name is Dandridge Fanucchi. I graduated from Arizona State University with a Masters degree in Education specializing in Curriculum and Instruction. I'm passionate about teaching and I believe in creating a classroom community where all students feel welcomed in the learning environment. I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and listening to podcasts.

  • Hello! My name is Lauren McMillen. I studied elementary education at Vanderbilt University. I completed my Masters in Ed with a concentration in Social Emotional Learning at National University. I have taught pre-K, kindergarten, first, and fifth grades in Mexico, in Puebla City and Tijuana. During the school year, I am a Reading Coach in Barrio Logan. I am fluent in Spanish. I love learning and teaching and filling the classroom with laughter, wonder, and joy. My hobbies include painting, gardening, volunteering, and going to the beach.

  • My name is Isabel Murillo. I graduated from the University of Portland with a degree in Elementary Education. I’m passionate about bilingual education and committed to creating an inclusive classroom where every student feels safe, valued, and engaged. I have four years of teaching experience, including three years teaching English in Spain. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading and spending time outdoors.

  • My name is Gesuri. I graduated from CSULA with a degree in LBS, a minor in WGSS and a teaching credential. I have 4 years of teaching experience and have enjoyed every moment of it. I love to make students feel welcomed and supported by allowing them to be themselves. My hobbies consist of watching foreign films and reading.

  • My name is Deborah Nealon. I graduated from CSU San Marcos with a degree in Human Development. I am passionate about teaching English Language Arts and I believe in creating a fun and engaging learning environment. I have eight years of experience and I'm always looking for ways to connect with students and inspire their love of learning. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, embroidery, crafting, cooking, and walking my two dogs.

  • My name is Taren Sain. I graduated from National University with a Master’s in Education and SDSU with a degree in Child and Family Development. I am passionate about teaching reading, writing, and SEL and fostering a fun learning environment. I have 10 years of experience working with children in preschool and elementary. Outside of the classroom I enjoy camping, hiking, and skateboarding.

  • My name is Jazmin Wilson. I’m originally from Boston, Massachusetts, and recently relocated to San Diego after spending several years abroad. I studied Psychology at the University of Maryland Global Campus, where I developed a strong interest in child development and education. I’m passionate about sparking a lifelong love of learning and creating a classroom environment where curiosity, creativity, and confidence can thrive. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy exploring outdoors, trying new foods, attending sporting events, and spending time with my family.

  • Program Manager

    My name is Nicolette White and I am the Site Program Manager for Horizons San Diego at Francis Parker. I hold a Masters Degree in Education and a teaching credential. I am pursuing a secondary credential in Special Education. This is my fifth summer with Horizons San Diego and my first summer stepping away from Reading Specialist work to be an administrator. I am excited to take on this new role and watch our community grow. In my free time, you can find me taking care of my twelve chickens and three ducks, reading a book, or gardening.

  • My name is Rachel Bryant, and I bring seven years of experience as a dedicated Teaching Assistant. I’m passionate about supporting children’s learning and development in a safe, nurturing, and creative environment. I strive to build meaningful connections with students and find joy in inspiring curiosity and a love for learning. Outside the classroom, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. In my free time, you’ll often find me cooking new recipes or getting lost in a good book.

  • My name is Brooke Farnum. I have 3 years of teaching experience and am passionate about providing a learning environment filled with kindness, creativity, and community. I love getting to know what makes each of my students unique and helping them embrace their individuality, both in and outside of the classroom. When I am not teaching, I enjoy listening to music, spending time with my family and friends, going to museums, and seeing live performances.

  • I am a dedicated bilingual Transitional Kindergarten teacher with 25 years of experience. I hold a BA in Preschool Education, a BA in Education, and a Master’s degree in Education. My passion lies in creating a classroom environment where children feel safe, loved, and excited to learn. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my son and attending his races. My hobbies include cooking, practicing Pilates, and reading.

  • My name is Damaris Ramirez, and I am currently nearing the completion of my bachelor's degree and teaching credential at Point Loma Nazarene University. I have been working in the education field for 9 years, primarily with junior kindergarten children. I’m passionate about creating a positive, welcoming, engaging, and supportive classroom environment where young learners get excited about learning. My years of experience have taught me the importance of connection, consistency, and creativity in the classroom. Outside of teaching, I enjoy many things: visiting new coffee shops, reading, hikes, watching sunsets, going for walk & talks with friends, shopping, visiting family & friends, but I’m I’m being honest I do not get to do much of anything. I’ve been in a season of working & studying.