Irene Garcia

Irene Garcia holds a vital role as a Program Officer at The Sobrato Organization, where she leads the charge in shaping the organization's state policy strategy, with a focus on uplifting English Learner (EL) children and youth within California's education landscape.

Her journey in advocating for educational equity has included program manager at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), where she worked to empower caregivers and students to navigate the complexities of the education system. With a keen eye for impactful initiatives, she crafted a $17 million national portfolio centered around amplifying the voices of parents and youth of color in educational discourse.

Prior to her tenure at CZI, Irene cultivated a deep understanding of California's education and policy arena through diverse roles in philanthropy and government. Notably, her time at the California Department of Education allowed her to forge critical relationships with stakeholders, advocating for cohesive K-12 education policies. Irene's initiatives included launching the first state-wide undocumented support program, underscoring her commitment to serving vulnerable populations.

A proud alumna of the University of California, Berkeley, Irene holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Her advocacy for educational equity is deeply rooted in her upbringing in East Los Angeles, shaping her perspective and informing her expertise in education policy.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Irene has had the honor of meeting influential figures such as Michelle Obama and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. A dedicated athlete, she has completed an impressive nine half marathons and is currently training for a triathlon and a full marathon, embodying her resilience and commitment to excellence in all endeavors.