WE ARE GIA
A leading voice for a well-educated and thriving Inland Empire
Our Mission
To champion educational attainment and socioeconomic mobility in the Inland Empire across the cradle-to-career continuum by accelerating innovation, fostering collaboration, and advocating for equitable systemic change.
Our North Star Goal
A future where at least 70% of working-age adults in the Inland Empire hold a degree or credential aligned with regional workforce needs, building stronger communities and a more prosperous region.
We are Growing Inland Achievement — because when students succeed, the Inland Empire thrives.
MEET THE BOARD
GIA Board of Directors
Dr. Ashish Vaidya
Sheila Thornton
Dr. Henry D. Shannon
Dr. Diana Rodriguez
Dr. Tomás D. Morales
Dr. Wolde-Ab Isaac
Paul Granillo
Dr. Edwin Gomez
Michelle Decker
Dr. S. Jack Hu
Ted Alejandre
OUR APPROACH
GIA supports regional needs
and aspirations through its
CAIR strategy
MEET THE TEAM
The GIA Staff
Dr. Ashish Vaidya
Ann Marie Sakrekoff
Alyssa Silva
Cindy Sanchez
Frances Tapper
Ida Hermosillo
Jake Poore
Julissa Loza-Mendez
Laurie Schoelkopf
Lisa Des Jardins
Nicole Hence
Dr. Paula Di Dio
Dr. Sorrel Stielstra
Vanessa Boekenoogen
Viri Saldana-Borden
Michellett Whitney
OUR VALUES
Our values drive our approach
Equity
Close educational and economic opportunity gaps for underserved populations
Collaboration
Unite stakeholders for collective action and sustainable outcomes
Innovation
Address challenges with creative, evidence-based solutions.
Transformation
Strive to improve social mobility and economic prosperity through educational attainment.
Accountability
Use data and transparency to measure progress and adapt strategies.
Go Deeper
Our Strategic Plan outlines the North Star goal of 70% attainment, the key priorities guiding our work, and the regional strategies we are activating to achieve lasting impact.
Transparency & Governance
Accountability in Action
GIA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to transparency, good governance, and effective stewardship. Explore our annual reports, financials, and public documents:
2024
2023
EIN 85-1010439
RECENT HAPPENINGS
































