AAYLC’s Board of Directors
Our board is committed to providing students and their families with the resources they need to make a difference in their communities. The AAYLC seeks leaders who want to use their abilities to provide strategic direction and purpose. If you'd like to be considered for our team, please click the button below.
Dr. Paul Wiggins
Board President
Information Technology Chair
Paul works for the Colorado Governor's Office of Information Technology as a Senior Service Management Analyst. He has over 23 years of leadership, information technology, change management, and program management expertise. Paul is also a retired veteran, having served in the Air Force Reserve for 21 years. During his time in the Air Force, he had several positions in leadership, administration, service desk lead, and finally as a First Sergeant. He serves on various city and state boards to improve our communities. Paul is also an Air University course instructor, teaching the Applied Airmen Leadership Capstone. He is deeply committed to our youth and ensuring that they have access to all educational and leadership opportunities that will help them develop into our future leaders.
Pamela Roberts-Mora
Board Vice President - Operations
Pamela graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2012 with a Bachelor’s in Sociology and earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Denver in 2016, with an emphasis on Family Systems. She began her career supporting marginalized students in Denver’s Five Points and surrounding neighborhoods, and has since developed a passion for social services, working with seniors, youth, and people with developmental disabilities. As the Chief Operating Officer at Sachs Foundation, Pamela leads efforts to support the Black community through culturally responsive programs. As a first-generation student, she deeply understands the importance of education and representation. Pamela also serves on several boards and has been recognized as a Next Generation Leader and a 2023 Girl Scouts of Colorado Woman of Distinction.
Stanley Gbandawa
Board Vice President - Outreach
Stanley F. Gbandawa is a Sr. Program Manager at Clearwater Analytics with over 20 years of experience in operations and program management. He holds a bachelor's degree in information systems and sciences from Morgan State University. Actively involved with the African American Youth Leadership Conference since 2016, Stanley is passionate about empowering the next generation of leaders. He also serves as Treasurer of the Board at Eastlake High School and Vice Chair of the Boys & Girls Club of the Pikes Peak Region. Additionally, he volunteers as a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters and supports WeReconcile, an organization focused on healing relationships between fathers and their adult children. Stanley's dedication to youth development and community service reflects his passion for creating positive change.
Kimberley "Kimber" Reese
Board Treasurer
Finance & Budget Chair
Kimber, a disabled veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Space Command, earned her Associates degree from Pikes Peak Community College and a Bachelor’s from Dallas Baptist University. She is a dedicated community advocate, volunteering with organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America, William J. Palmer High School Bands, the MLK Planning Committee, and the African American Youth Leadership Conference. Kimber also serves on the boards of the Pikes Peak Diversity Council and the MLK Legacy Preservation Society, and is involved with groups like GMWA of Colorado Springs, America’s Patriots, and other local organizations, championing diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
Kirsten Yriba
Board Director - Governance & Policy
Kirstie graduated from Newman University with a master’s in social work (MSW). She is pursuing her LCSW while working as an adolescent therapist at a crisis stabilization program. Kirstie has worked in adoptions for three years growing from a case aide to an adoption specialist. She also volunteers as a CASA advocate for the Pikes Peak Region. Kirstie enjoys participating within the Colorado Springs community and is continuing to seek growth and self-improvement. These goals led Kirstie to volunteer with and support the board of AAYLC since January of 2024. Kirstie has had a strong focus on adolescent growth and development through her education; she strongly encourages adolescent development of autonomy, individuality, and personal success.
Angela Hall
Board Director - Community Engagement
Angela, MBA, is a licensed Neuromuscular Therapist and Group Fitness Coordinator for Crunch Fitness in Colorado Springs. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the MixxedFit community, Angela is passionate about service and fitness. As a participant in AAYLC from 6th through 12th grade, she now gives back by leading "The Dance Fitness Turn Up" at the conference, offering a fun way for youth to stay active. Angela has also facilitated fitness sessions for the Sachs Foundation's Elevated program and the Juneteenth Festival, reflecting her commitment to empowering youth and promoting community wellness.
DeShandra Randle
Board Director - Financial Sustainability
Deshandra is a trauma-informed coach and financial educator with over 20 years of experience in financial sales. After a successful corporate career, she transitioned to the mental health field, earning specialized certifications to better support individuals facing emotional and financial challenges. Deshandra is passionate about breaking the stigma around mental health and empowering others through education and compassionate guidance. She also volunteers with several local youth and community organizations. Deshandra is dedicated to nurturing resilience and confidence in young people, believing in the power of community to uplift the next generation.
Dr. Gail Lott
Board Director
Gail is an accomplished educator and consultant with over 30 years of experience in public education, focusing on supporting students with disabilities. As a former statewide leader for the Colorado Department of Education, she specialized in transition services and helped improve outcomes for students across Colorado. Dr. Lott’s expertise has been recognized through governor-appointed advisory roles and as a lecturer at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. She holds a Doctorate in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, along with advanced degrees and certifications in education and leadership. Dr. Lott has also contributed to several community initiatives and served as Village Planning Chair for the AAYLC. She is dedicated to advancing equity and empowering youth throughout the broader community.
Si'Mona Johnson
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Board Director
Si’Mona is an Assistant Principal in Widefield School District 3, known for her purposeful leadership and dedication to student success. An active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Order of the Eastern Star, she has held multiple leadership roles and is committed to community service. Grounded in her faith, Si’Mona draws strength and guidance from her spiritual foundation. She is also a proud mom to 8-year-old twin boys and enjoys reading, walking, scrapbooking, and spending time with her family. Si’Mona brings warmth and authenticity to both her professional and personal life.