The Future of LA Charter School Politics

With nearly two decades of cross-sector experience, Alex Johnson is a dynamic leader adept at collaborating with policymakers, nonprofits, and philanthropy. Formerly chief of staff at the California Wellness Foundation, he spearheaded the foundation's violence prevention strategy. His impactful career includes leading policy advocacy at the Children’s Defense Fund-California and two terms, including a presidential term, on the Los Angeles County Board of Education. Alex champions educational equity, combats child poverty, and advocates for marginalized voices. His career began as an assistant district attorney in Bronx County, focusing on domestic violence victims in New York City.

Cami Anderson, a transformative leader with six CEO roles spanning 25 years, drives systemic change, empowering CEOs and teams for equity. Overseeing diverse initiatives and coaching 20+ C-suite teams nationwide, she's a trailblazer in education, celebrated for innovation as a superintendent in NYC and Newark. A Forbes contributor and Aspen Global Leaders member, Cami's honors include the Peter Jennings Award and Time's "100 Most Influential People." In 2022, she earned a lifetime achievement award from the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, recognizing her unwavering commitment to a more just and peaceful world.

Joni Angel began her career as a TFA corps member, teaching at both district and charter schools. Following teaching, Joni spent twelve years at CCSA in progressive roles, including Vice President of Political Affairs and Deputy Chief Advocacy Officer. Currently, as the Executive Director of the Los Angeles Coalition for Excellent Public Schools (LACEPS), she leads a coalition of ten major CMOs, focused on ensuring a political environment of quality and equity for 50,000 students across 115 schools. Joni holds a Master in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan.

A deep-thinking and detailed strategist with a background in advocacy, government and law, Sarah Angel advises nonprofits and education organizations on navigating a myriad of public relations challenges and opportunities. She helps clients tell powerful stories about their impact and guides them to achieve their goals with integrity, courage and heart. A former prosecutor, Sarah served as the chief of staff to Nick Melvoin on the LAUSD Board. As a managing director for CCSA, Sarah led a team that advocated for equity for LA's charter families. She began her career as a staff consultant for the Assembly Budget Committee.