Jaclyn Muro is a Gilroy native with a specialization in Strategic Brand Management and Public Relations, having graduated from UCLA. With an unwavering commitment to diversity and equity, Jaclyn is devoted to addressing the unique needs of the Gilroy community. As the Executive Director of Gilroy Foundation, Jaclyn is resolute in her mission to make a positive and lasting impact in the community she holds dear. Notably, she is also raising her family in Gilroy, instilling in them the core value of community philanthropy and the significance of giving back.

Harnessing her academic excellence and practical expertise, Jaclyn excels in developing comprehensive strategies that precisely cater to the specific requirements of the Gilroy community. She recognizes the pivotal importance of amplifying diverse voices, cultivating cultural sensitivity, and fostering equitable opportunities for all individuals.

With an unyielding passion for leveraging her skills in strategic brand management and public relations, Jaclyn eagerly collaborates with organizations and community leaders to bring about transformative change. She firmly believes in the transformative power of effective storytelling and communication to shape perceptions and drive meaningful impact.

During her leisure time, Jaclyn indulges in immersing herself in the vibrant local art and cultural scene, finding inspiration in the diverse perspectives that thrive within Gilroy. Her steadfast commitment revolves around nurturing an inclusive community where the voices of all individuals are not only heard but also valued and celebrated.

Before her tenure at Gilroy Foundation, Jaclyn served as the Executive Director of Latino Family Fund, spearheading initiatives that brought about positive change within the Latino community. Throughout her career, she has fostered robust partnerships with esteemed community leaders, devoted donors, and passionate volunteers, collectively working towards the attainment of enduring outcomes.

Sierra Ceballos is a recent college graduate with a passion for driving positive change and making a difference in the community. With a diverse background in customer service, executive support, program management, and social media management, Sierra brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to her work.

Sierra holds an Associate’s Degree of the Arts from West Valley College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies from San Jose State University. Alongside her academic achievements, she continuously seeks personal and professional growth opportunities to stay abreast of the latest trends and best practices in her field.

Passionate about community development, Sierra is committed to supporting the mission of the organizations she serves. Whether it’s assisting with executive tasks, managing programs, coordinating events, or engaging audiences through social media, Sierra approaches each responsibility with enthusiasm and a dedication to excellence.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Sierra enjoys exploring the great outdoors, spending quality time with loved ones, and nurturing her personal wellness through fitness activities. She believes in the power of a strong mind and body and strives to inspire others to achieve their own well-being goals.

With her skills, dedication, and unwavering commitment to community service, Sierra is excited to contribute to the growth and success of organizations that are making a positive impact. Her passion for creating a stronger and more vibrant community shines through in all aspects of her work.

Kelly Barbazette, a resident of Gilroy for more than two decades, is honored to contribute to the Gilroy Foundation as the Programs Coordinator. Her commitment to serving the community aligns seamlessly with the Foundation’s mission to make a positive impact.

Bringing a wealth of experience in print journalism, Kelly has diversified her skill set in communications, public relations, and development. As a dedicated professional, she has raised two daughters in Gilroy, both currently pursuing higher education, and has a deep-rooted passion for community service.

Before joining the Gilroy Foundation, Kelly showcased her talent as a freelance writer, making significant contributions to local publications. She firmly believes that everyone has a unique story, and she is honored to be a storyteller. Kelly’s work includes sharing the narratives of women in leadership roles in South County for Gilroy Life and Morgan Hill Life newspapers. Additionally, she serves as a contributing writer for Visit Gilroy and contributed to GMH Today magazine, highlighting the vibrant arts community in South County.

Kelly first joined the team at Gilroy Foundation in January 2024 as the Office and Programs Support Specialist. Kelly is excited to utilize her skills and experience to enhance the Foundation’s operations. Her dedication to community engagement and storytelling aligns seamlessly with the Foundation’s vision for a thriving and inclusive Gilroy.

Join us in welcoming Kelly Barbazette to the Gilroy Foundation team, where she continues her journey of making a difference in the community she calls home.

Maya, a freshman at the University of California, Berkeley, is majoring in Environmental Economics and Policy with plans to potentially add a Marine Science or Business Administration major. She is actively laying the groundwork for Gilroy Foundation’s new GilroyTHRIVES initiative by coordinating data collection with local organizations and neighboring counties, overseeing website and logo development, and drafting a preliminary grant budget.

At UC Berkeley’s ASUC Eco-Office, Maya plays a proactive role in advancing environmental justice through education, engagement, and advocacy initiatives. She forges robust partnerships across campus and within the community to enhance sustainability awareness and educational outreach on environmental issues.

Passionate about nature and ocean conservation, Maya enjoys outdoor activities like snorkeling and hiking. She channels her enthusiasm for environmental advocacy as a member of the Cal Club Softball Team, where she serves as the Social Media Chair.

Kennedy Agnitsch recently graduated from Christopher High School, originally from Los Banos, CA. After moving to Gilroy, she quickly embraced the community, participating in sports, local theater, and volunteering at the Gilroy Garlic Festival. Inspired by community leaders, Kennedy pursued leadership roles including student government, secretary of the Gilroy Foundation Youth Board, captain of the Varity Girl’s Water Polo Team, and president of the Sister Cities International Club at CHS. Committed to Santa Clara University for the Class of 2028, she plans to major in Political Science with a minor in Sociology, aiming for a career in law after attending law school. Kennedy is eager to apply her experiences at Gilroy Foundation to her future goals.

Monserrat Gonzalez, known as Monse, is a student at Christopher High School. Originally from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, she moved to Gilroy at the age of 9. Adjusting from a bustling city to Gilroy, Monse quickly embraced the community’s welcoming atmosphere and its empowering diversity. Initially navigating the unfamiliar landscape without much guidance, she eventually found her place by volunteering at non-profits, becoming a member of the Gilroy Foundation Youth board, and participating in sports like water polo and swim, as well as joining clubs such as the Hispanic Student Union at CHS.

Through these experiences, Monse developed strong leadership skills and found her voice within the community. She values the opportunity to contribute to Gilroy’s vibrant community and sees the internship as a way to further her involvement and gain invaluable professional skills. Monse is eager to leverage this opportunity not only for her personal growth but also to give back to the community that has embraced and supported her over the years.