Our Team
Our staff come from backgrounds in teaching, policy, advocacy, government and the nonprofit sector. What do we all have in common? A deep-seated belief that all Connecticut kids CAN succeed.
About Steven Hernández
Executive Director
Steven Hernández was born in Chicago and raised there and in Edinburg, Texas before making his way to New England for college (Bennington) and DC for what was to be a lifelong career in International Human Rights. After law school and through the mentorship of an esteemed judge, Steve found “human rights at home” and has served the public ever since.
About Hamish MacPhail
Deputy Director
Hamish grew up in a small town outside Boston where school was the center of public life. The school system deeply valued diversity of thought, background and race by participating in a voluntary integration program and inviting students from the local Air Force Base to attend. This purposeful commitment to diversity and multiculturalism showed that if a small town like Bedford, Massachusetts could do it, why couldn’t others?
About Hamish MacPhail
Deputy Director
Hamish grew up in a small town outside Boston where school was the center of public life. The school system deeply valued diversity of thought, background and race by participating in a voluntary integration program and inviting students from the local Air Force Base to attend. This purposeful commitment to diversity and multiculturalism showed that if a small town like Bedford, Massachusetts could do it, why couldn’t others?
About Luis Ortiz
Director of Community Engagement and Family Partnerships
Born and raised in the beautiful city of Orlando, Florida, Luis quickly learned to enjoy building community and seeing others thrive. Upon graduation from high school, Luis decided he could best serve his community by enlisting in the United States Air Force. Six years later, as a decorated Air Force Veteran, Luis has dedicated his life to social and racial justice.