Meet the team behind Catalyze.
Michelle Cheang, Ed.D.
Director of Catalyze
Dr. Michelle Cheang is the inaugural Director of Catalyze, where she leads collaborative efforts to advance career-connected learning through strategic grantmaking, learning, and storytelling. With nearly two decades of experience across community-based organizations and higher education, she is deeply committed to advancing education equity and social justice for K–12 students, youth, and adult learners. Her nonprofit leadership includes launching youth education and workforce departments, building strong partnerships with K–14 systems and industry leaders, and aligning investments with organizational strategy and impact goals. As a former community college dean, Michelle expanded career technical education pathways, strengthened dual enrollment partnerships, and deepened employer engagement. Michelle earned a Doctor of Education and Master of Public Administration from California State University, Northridge and bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of California, San Diego.
Advisory Board
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Brennan Brown
Director of Educational Partnerships
Charles Koch Foundation -
Jamie Jutila
Senior Program Officer
The Walton Family Foundation -
Julie Lammers
President & CEO
Britebound -
George Vinton
CEO
Common Group
Supporters
A collaborative funding initiative, Catalyze receives financial support from leading philanthropies and investors committed to providing students with opportunities to build agency throughout their learning and career journeys.
Catalyze is a project of New Venture Fund.
Strategic Delivery Partners
Catalyze engages trusted partners with expertise in evaluation, community building, and more to strengthen the program and broaden access to career-connected learning opportunities.