Our board introductions continue with our newest board chair, Kendall Irey!
Hey Everyone!
My name is Kendall, and my position on Project GIA’s board is still under construction. I’m 24 years old and was born and raised in Stockton. Upon graduating from Lincoln High School, I attended Sonoma State University, it was there that I received my B.A. in History. After graduation and a summer studying abroad at Cambridge University in England, I took a year off from school and moved back home to Stockton to figure out where my life was meant to go next. I was completely and utterly burnt out after finishing college.
In that time off, I spent some time resting and contemplating where my life was meant to go next. My journey took me to University of the Pacific, where I received my Single Subject Teaching Credential and M.A. in Education. I now teach at Sierra Middle School, where I have the privilege of teaching 190 incredible 7th graders World History each and every day. Teaching is what sets my soul on fire. I love that I get to be a part of shaping the next generation. I love that I get to teach students a subject that I find to be so very interesting, but more than that I love that I get to be a part of their story. Every child deserves to know someone loves them, believes in them, and knows they are beyond capable of accomplishing great things in this world. As a teacher, I’m able to do that each and every day.
I always knew that my journey would keep me in Stockton. I knew I was meant to be a part of the change I wish to see in this city that I love so much. I believe with every fiber of my being that we are destined for greatness, that Stockton should not be a place where people feel the need to “get out” to be successful. Project GIA found me at a moment in my life where I knew teaching was amazing, but I needed more. I needed to be a part of empowering young women in this community.
I grew up in a home with three very strong women. I was raised by both my parents, but also my grandmother, and older sister. I know the power that stems from having strong female role models behind you, but I’m also aware that not all girls and young women in this community have that strength behind them. Project GIA is a part of bringing that strength to young women in our community and I’m excited to see the change we can create with that much force and power behind us.
Always remember… you are amazing, capable, and loved.
Xoxo,
Kendall
P.S. I’m fully obsessed with red panda bears. Having a bad day? Go watch a video of red pandas playing in the snow. I promise it won’t disappoint.
To find out more information on Kendall or Project Gia, please email kendall@projectgia.com .