Young Leadership Council

The GO Project Young Leadership Council (YLC) is a dynamic group of young professionals committed to promoting and bringing awareness to the GO Project mission. Young Leadership Council members increase the visibility of the GO Project by acting as ambassadors for the organization and raise critical funds to support GO's year-round programming. 

Young Leadership Council Members

Sam Hefler, Co-Chair and Board Liaison
Relationship Manager, Glenview Capital

Cierra Taylor, Co-Chair
Senior Associate, Cerberus Capital Management 

Mariano Allegra
SVP, Head of Strategy, LHi Group

Ryan Begley
Vice President - Relationship Manager, PNC Financial Services

Nick Belfanti
Account Director, AlphaSense

Julia Bernier
Vice President - Consultant Relations, Ares Management

 

Dave Campbell
Portfolio Manager, BNP Paribas Asset Management

Aaron Chinn
Associate, Ares Management

Brandon DeGraff
Senior Associate, Cushman & Wakefield

Christopher Kim
Investment Associate, Rothschild & Co.

Easton Orbe
Associate, Advent International

Gemma Padchonga
Private Wealth Management Financial Analyst, Goldman Sachs

Abby Patrick
Advisory Associate, Wingspan Legacy Partners

Jackson Richter
Associate, Strategy&

Rebecca Tribble
Marketing Lead, Artsy

Brett Wager
Vice President, BlackRock

Kimberly Wong
Senior Contracts Counsel, McKinsey & Company

Bessie Zavidow
Business Analyst, Alternative Data, Viking Global Investors LP

The YLC holds its signature event every fall at New York City's iconic Bowery Hotel. Check out the festivities from the 2023 YLC Fall Cocktail Party.

Interested in joining the YLC? We seek motivated young professionals with an interest in giving back to their community, a belief in education equity and the mission of GO, and the enthusiasm to help fundraise, volunteer, and participate in social events that raise awareness of and benefit the organization.

YLC Member Requirements:

Display leadership qualities and exhibit a strong commitment to closing the achievement gap for NYC school children

Have a passion for and commitment to the GO Project's mission and approach

Have the confidence to advocate and fundraise on the behalf of the GO Project

Are willing to devote time to the duties of the YLC

This diverse philanthropic group provides a forum for young people from all sectors to network with one another while utilizing their skills, connections, and ideas to benefit the 700+ students and families that GO serves.

How to Join:

The YLC is by invitation only. For next steps on how to get involved, please contact Michaela Brawn, Development Manager, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .