Our Board of Directors
Dr. Judy Castro
Board Chair
With over 25 years of experience leading organizational teams to achieve strategic objectives, Dr. Castro's expertise spans leadership development, project planning, team building, and conflict resolution. She has helped both domestic and international organizations understand that leadership growth can be achieved by aligning the efforts of individual leaders with the systems that drive organizational operations. Presently she serves as the Hispanic Serving Institution Project Director at Pacific Oaks College. She successfully authored Hispanic Serving Institution grants totaling $5.1 million, awarded by the Department of Education in 2020 and 2023. These grants aim to support Latinx undergraduate students in completing their degrees through enhanced student services, including bilingual staff, a book lending library, cutting-edge equipment, academic advising, and more. Her diverse leadership experience includes roles in both the public and private sectors, such as serving on the Alumni Board of Directors at the University of San Francisco. Currently, she serves as the Chair for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Contra Costa County and Board of Directors for State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Dr. Castro holds an Ed.D. in Organization and Leadership from the University of San Francisco, has completed the "Leading Successful Change Initiatives" mastery session at Harvard University Extension School, and holds certificates from UCLA Anderson School of Management in the Purchasing Executive Program and Management Development for Entrepreneurs. In 2024, she earned her Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach Certification.
Penny Lorenzo
Vice Chair
Full professional profile coming soon.
Jenniffer Jimenez
Secretary
Jenniffer Jimenez is a dedicated East Bay Realtor known for her local expertise, integrity, and deep commitment to community. A Pittsburg native and long-time Concord resident, Jenniffer brings a unique blend of professional knowledge and personal connection to every client interaction. Her journey into real estate was shaped by years of entrepreneurial experience, including owning a successful local restaurant and managing complex processes such as commercial permits, zoning, and licensing. This hands-on knowledge makes her a trusted resource for both residential buyers and sellers as well as those exploring mixed-use or investment opportunities. Jenniffer is actively involved in local leadership and philanthropy. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Concord Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the AOC High School Scholarship Committee through NHORA. She also proudly served as Chairperson of the Concord Chamber from 2023 to 2024. In addition, she publishes a monthly newsletter, Taste of the East Bay, spotlighting local eateries and East Bay living. Driven by service and fueled by passion, Jenniffer Jimenez is more than a Realtor — she’s your neighbor, advocate, and committed partner in building a strong, vibrant community.
Myrna Hennessy
Treasurer
Myrna retired in April 2021, with 33 years of Finance experience. Prior to retirement, she was the Finance Director of West Business Unit of Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP), for 11 years. Myrna’s prior experience included CFO of Wham-O, Corporate Controller of the Imaginarium Toy Company, and Senior Auditor at PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) and Ernst & Young (EY). Myrna graduated with a BS in Accounting and Finance from the University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business in 1988. Post-retirement, Myrna enjoys running, working part-time at the Concord Pavilion, managing a rental home portfolio, film class and time with friends and family
Derek Wang
Board Member
Full professional profile coming soon.
Joanne Rodriguez, AMFT
Acting Executive Director
Joanne Rodriguez is a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and the Acting Executive Director of La Concordia Wellness Center, where she integrates clinical insight with strategic leadership to advance culturally responsive care. With over four years at the Center in roles ranging from Office Manager to Program Manager, Joanne has led efforts to expand access to mental health services while improving operational systems. Fluent in Spanish, she is deeply committed to equity, inclusion, and delivering high-quality care to clients across all backgrounds. Joanne holds a Master of Arts in Psychology with dual specializations in Marriage & Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling from Brandman University. She is currently pursuing her Juris Doctor at St. Francis School of Law with the goal of becoming a defense attorney for clinicians—combining her firsthand knowledge of mental health care with legal expertise to protect and advocate for professionals in the field. Her multidisciplinary path reflects a dedication to justice, systems change, and the well-being of both clients and clinicians.