Learn About Our Nonprofit’s Mission and Team

A group of people are sitting in a room with their arms crossed

Our Vision

We aspire to build a world where hope overcomes hopelessness, enabling youth to heal and cultivate critical thinking, with exposure that expands their opportunities and breaks barriers to success.

Our Mission

Bridge Builders to the New Generation is dedicated to fostering the social emotional learning and mental well-being of youth and families from marginalized communities, providing a supportive and inclusive environment where they can develop essential skills for success in college, career, and life. Our passionate team is committed to empowering underserved youth to lead fulfilling lives by nurturing their growth and offering opportunities for the development of educational, social, vocational, and independent living skills.

Our Goal

Empower students from low-income urban communities to take accountability for their education and actively engage in their learning journey. We aim to cultivate critical thinkers and innovators who aspire to rise above their circumstances and become catalysts for positive change in their communities. To achieve this, we are committed to establishing a boarding school that provides a supportive and enriching environment, enabling students to realize their full potential and transform their aspirations into reality.

Our Team

Board of Directors

Dr. Tanisha Maxwell, Board Member

Dr. Tanisha Maxwell | Antioch, CA | Bridge Builders to the New Generation

I have nearly 25 years of experience in Student Affairs higher education including 10 years of experience as a residential counseling faculty member at Estrella Mountain Community College, and 10 years of progressively responsible executive administrative leadership experience within multi-community college district systems in California and Arizona. I am a first-generation college student, a product of the community college system, a licensed psychologist in the state of Arizona, and a peer reviewer for both the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) regional accrediting organizations. My academic background entails a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Arizona State University, an M.A. from the University of Missouri-Columbia in Counseling Psychology, and a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Arizona State University.

As the inaugural Vice President of Student Services (VPSS) at Los Medanos College (LMC), I have provided executive leadership, supervision and management as the Chief Student Services Officer since 2019. I have been committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives throughout my professional career. I believe strongly in professional development and am a fellow of the following nationally recognized leadership programs: Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship, League for Innovation in the Community College Executive Leadership Institute, American Association of Community Colleges John E. Roueche Future Leaders Institute, and the Kaleidoscope Leadership Institute. I have a passion for service. Along with my participation on the Bridge Builders to the New Generation (BBNG) board of directors, I am currently a member of the HERDI Innovate national board and the Chief Student Services Officers Association executive board for the state of California.

The mission of BBNG to foster the social emotional learning and mental well-being of youth and families from marginalized communities speaks directly to my personal values as an educator, psychologist and administrator. As a culturally competent, futuristic, innovative, strategic, collaborative and student-centered leader, I am unwavering in my commitment to equity, holistic student development, and transformational student success. I am excited to join the board of directors for Bridge Builders to the New Generation to connect the communities I serve with access to higher education opportunities that lead to livable wage careers and sustainable social and economic mobility for generations to come.

I have nearly 25 years of experience in Student Affairs higher education including 10 years of

experience as a residential counseling faculty member at Estrella Mountain Community College, and 10 years of progressively responsible executive administrative leadership experience within multi-

community college district systems in California and Arizona. I am a first-generation college student, a product of the community college system, a licensed psychologist in the state of Arizona, and a peer reviewer for both the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) regional accrediting organizations. My academic background entails a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Arizona State University, an

M.A. from the University of Missouri-Columbia in Counseling Psychology, and a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Arizona State University. As the inaugural Vice President of Student Services (VPSS) at Los Medanos College (LMC), I have provided executive leadership, supervision and management as the Chief Student Services Officer since 2019. I have been committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives

throughout my professional career. I believe strongly in professional development and am a fellow of the following nationally recognized leadership programs: Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship, League for Innovation in the Community College Executive Leadership Institute, American

Association of Community Colleges John E. Roueche Future Leaders Institute, and the Kaleidoscope Leadership Institute. I have a passion for service. Along with my participation on the Bridge Builders to the New Generation (BBNG) board of directors, I am currently a member of the HERDI

Innovate national board and the Chief Student Services Officers Association executive board for the state of California.

to higher education opportunities that lead to livable wage careers and sustainable social and economic mobility for generations to come.

Tamara Paterson, Vice Board Chair

Tamara Paterson | Antioch, CA | Bridge Builders to the New Generation

As the Assistant Manager for Safeguards and Security at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Livermore Field Office, I bring a wealth of experience in leading and managing federal staff in oversight and evaluation of contractors and National Laboratories' performance. With a background in protective security, mission support, and program management at the Department of Homeland Security, along with academic qualifications including a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Illinois University and a Master of Science degree from Bellevue University, I am well-equipped to contribute to the board with my expertise in security management and program oversight. My commitment to community service and my passion for making a positive impact align well with the organization's mission and values.

Joining the organization’s board of directors is a natural extension of my desire to give back to the community and support initiatives that empower and uplift individuals, particularly students of color. Drawing from my experience in university administration and program development, I am motivated to leverage my skills in engagement, outreach, and mentoring to support the organization's efforts in providing access to higher education and creating a safe space for students facing challenges. Additionally, my leadership experience in project management, quality control, and team building positions me to contribute to the success of the organization's initiatives and help drive impactful change.

With a unique perspective shaped by my diverse background and experiences as a military child and a Black woman in leadership, I bring a valuable perspective to the board and the organization as a whole. My commitment to understanding and addressing challenges, building effective teams, and fostering collaboration aligns with the organization's goals of breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all students to thrive. I am dedicated to supporting the CEO's vision, expanding the organization's reach, and developing strategic plans for growth and sustainability. Through active engagement with board members, proactive fundraising efforts, and a commitment to fulfilling fiduciary responsibilities, I aim to contribute meaningfully to the organization and help advance its mission of empowering students and fostering educational opportunities.

Brandon Rice, Board Member

As the CEO of Rice Entertainment Company, specializing in creating memorable DJ and Photo Booth experiences in the Bay Area, my professional background is centered on delivering unparalleled entertainment services. I am deeply motivated to join the Board of Directors of Bridge Builders to the New Generation, driven by a genuine passion to contribute to the organization's growth and impact on underserved youth.

My expertise lies in meticulous event planning, flawless execution, and the implementation of innovative marketing strategies. With previous experience as a programming outreach coordinator for construction projects, I have successfully led diverse teams to ensure exceptional client experiences. This background equips me with the skills necessary to make valuable contributions to the board.

Through a strong resonance with the organization's mission of empowering underserved youth, I aim to elevate our events and marketing efforts to amplify the Bridge Builder's brand presence within the local community and beyond. I bring a unique perspective to the board, combining strategic insight with operational excellence to address challenges and opportunities effectively. My commitment to fostering collaboration, supporting fundraising initiatives, and staying actively engaged will help drive the organization toward its goals.

Kevin Booze, Board Member

Kevin Booze | Antioch, CA | Bridge Builders to the New Generation

As a recent graduate from Sacramento State with a degree in construction management and a background in business, I currently work as a construction project manager while running my own business in junk removal, dumpster rental, and hauling services. Motivated by the potential impact on the younger generation, particularly under the leadership of Shamawn, I was inspired to join the board of directors for Bridge Builders to the New Generation. Understanding the importance of laying a strong foundation for growth, I bring a network of connections in the business world that can help secure funding and recognition for the organization. Additionally, I am committed to brainstorming innovative ways to enhance the branding and development of BBNG.

With experience serving on the board of directors for the Black Alumni Chapter of Sacramento State and holding leadership positions in college fraternity organizations, I bring a wealth of networking and organizational skills to the table. My understanding of the organization's mission to foster professional development and provide opportunities for youth resonates with my own belief in empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. While I may not have firsthand experience with all the challenges faced by program participants, I am dedicated to leveraging my knowledge, resources, and ideas to contribute meaningfully to the organization's growth and impact.

Passionate about supporting the students' involvement in various events such as college trips, career fairs, and college readiness programs, I am eager to help create opportunities for growth and exploration. As a driven and ambitious individual, I aim to bring my proactive mindset and creative ideas to the board, especially during times of uncertainty or change. By actively engaging with fellow board members, seeking feedback, and working together towards common goals, I believe we can address challenges, enhance communication, and drive the organization forward.

Artice, Board Treasurer

Artice | Antioch, CA | Bridge Builders to the New Generation

My career journey in operations and manufacturing has been enriching and diverse. After college, I started at Union Pacific Railroad, where I honed my skills in managing operations efficiently. I then transitioned to roles at Amazon and, currently, SpaceX, where I have consistently taken on leadership roles. I have overseen teams comprising both hourly and salaried employees, totaling over 50 individuals. This experience has given me a deep understanding of managing and motivating diverse teams towards a common goal.

Joining your organization's board of directors was driven by my desire to give back to the community, especially to the youth. I am inspired by the individuals who have positively influenced my life and wish to pay that forward. With a background in leadership and business acumen, I believe I can contribute effectively to strategic decision-making processes that will benefit the organization and the individuals it serves.

While my board experience was limited prior to this opportunity, I am deeply committed to the organization's mission to uplift underprivileged youth by providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities for personal growth. As a board member, I am passionate about actively participating in events, offering mentorship, and making contributions to support the organization's initiatives. Mentorship, in particular, is an area where I feel I can make a significant impact and contribute meaningfully to the development of young individuals.

Through my journey in operations and leadership roles, I have developed a strong sense of responsibility towards community development. I see the board position as a platform to align my skills and experiences with the organization's objectives, aiming to provide a positive influence on the lives of those in need. By engaging in mentorship activities and supporting fundraising efforts, I hope to play a part in taking the organization to greater heights and making a lasting impact on the youth it serves.

Sonya Simpson, Board Secretary

S| Antioch, Sonya Simpson | Antioch CA | Bridge Builders to the New Generation

Sonya Simpson is a seasoned Human Resources professional with over 15 years of experience spanning both the public and private sectors. In her role as a Human Resources Business Partner at the Oakland Housing Authority, she brings a holistic and inclusive approach to people operations, aligning organizational goals with human potential. Sonya is deeply passionate about building high-performing, values-driven teams and driving equity in the workplace and community.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Cal State East Bay and a Master of Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix.

Sonya joined the Bridge Builders to the New Generation (BBNG) Board of Directors out of a deep commitment to her community and a desire to support youth in breaking cycles of generational trauma. Serving on the BBNG board allows her to align her values with meaningful action—giving back, building others, and contributing to something larger than herself.

Sonya brings expertise in Human Resources, community engagement, workforce readiness, and parent/student outreach to the board. She aims to use her HR background to provide career preparation pathways and align people strategy with social impact.

In addition to her work with BBNG, Sonya is involved in several other initiatives, including Restorative Justice programs with Contra Costa County, caregiving advocacy through the 2024 Caregivers Across America Cohort, breast cancer awareness, and support for adults on the autism spectrum. She is also an active volunteer with her sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho.

Among her proudest achievements is being a dedicated mother to 25-year-old twins, as well as her continued efforts to uplift communities and advocate for mental health resources. A fun fact about Sonya—she enjoys traveling and is excited to visit Ghana in the near future. After retirement, she plans to return to her passion for voice-over work.

CEO and Founder

Dr. Shamawn Wright

“TURNING AT RISK YOUTH TO HIGH PROMISE YOUTH, SO THEY CAN GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL AND ATTEND COLLEGE”

Black Executive Leadership Accelerator Certificate

My Story

Dr. Shamawn Wright sought to use his experience as a youth growing up in East Oakland, California, surrounded by drugs, gun violence, and poverty, to engage students with school and their community through an approach grounded in Blackness and culture first. As a Black male, former foster youth who got kicked out of school districts due to educational experiences that were not affirming to his identity and lived experiences; as a formerly incarcerated youth at the Contra Costa County Juvenile “Justice” center; as a youth who navigated these experiences.

Dr. Shamawn turned it around; he graduated from Antioch High School in 2011 and received a full-ride football scholarship to the University of California, Davis. He majored in Sociology Organizational Studies and received his BS in 2015, as well as a Master of Art from the University of San Francisco in Higher Education and Student Affairs in 2021. He received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Francisco State University in May 2024

In July 2019, Dr. Shamawn founded Bridge Builders to the New Generation, Inc. to bridge students from underserved communities in Antioch, California, to higher education through access to college, leadership, and life skills. Through enriching programs, Bridge Builders seeks to keep students engaged in school and build a support network of family, validation, and support for a younger generation of Black youth from similar backgrounds. By assisting youth in becoming self-sufficient adults, Bridge Builders seeks to help students create a plan post-high school, either in higher education, vocational school, or a career path.

Staff Directory

We are here to help students who come from marginalized communities, with a huge emphasis on our Black male population, discover their identity and help them "Change the Narrative" and the many stereotypes that our society has placed over them.