Dr. Erica Conners Joins IYT Bay Area as Executive Director
September 9, 2024
We’re absolutely thrilled to share the news that Dr. Erica Conners has joined our team as Executive Director for IYT Bay Area. Bringing many years of experience and knowledge, Dr. Conners’ unwavering commitment to equity in education makes her an ideal choice to lead the advancement of our mission in the Bay Area region.
A proud product of Oakland, California, Dr. Conners understands the systemic and environmental challenges that negatively impact young people, especially those growing up in single-parent homes in urban settings. Inspired by the community members who supported her journey, she is dedicated to making a positive difference and disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline.
Aila Malik, Founder & Co-Principal of Venture Leadership Collective shared her support for the appointment:
“Dr. Conners is a first generation college graduate who exemplifies what it means to be a Change Champion - a dynamic social change leader, advancing equity and justice. She’s spent most of her life being of service either civically or professionally supporting underserved populations in the Bay Area. Whether it has been through advocacy efforts or volunteering her time, she has been committed to planting seeds to make a difference in the lives of young people.”
Dr. Conners has spent many years supporting youth through college readiness programs and engaged in advocacy efforts for former foster care youth. Her impressive academic credentials include a PhD in Clinical Psychology and an MBA from the University of Rhode Island, as well as a double Master’s degree in Psychology in Education and Organizational Psychology from Columbia University.
As the Executive Director of IYT Bay Area, Dr. Conners' experience and vision will be instrumental in expanding IYT’s programs and services, fostering a college-bound brotherhood in the Bay Area. Reflecting on the appointment, Dr. Conners stated, “I am deeply honored to step into this role. Our mission to support and empower young men of color is more crucial than ever. I look forward to working with our dedicated team and community partners to create lasting change.”
In her free time, Dr. Conners enjoys attending music events, traveling, and participating in civic duties across the Bay Area to support youth advocacy and social justice.