Alyssa Unger
Board President
Co-Founder
Alyssa brings a wealth of experience in Waldorf teaching methods to Golden Star Education Services (GSES). As our fearless leader and guiding visionary, she passionately champions holistic, child-centered education. Alyssa’s dedication inspires our community to embrace creativity, curiosity, and compassion, ensuring that every initiative at GSES reflects her unwavering commitment to nurturing lifelong learners.
Genevieve C. Friend
Board Treasurer
Board Secretary
Co-Founder
Genevieve is a true creative force, constantly thinking outside the box to find innovative solutions for every challenge. As the architect behind GSES’s success as a thriving nonprofit, she combines vision with meticulous organization. Whether navigating complex administrative tasks or building the perfect spreadsheet, Genevieve’s dedication and expertise keep our operations running smoothly — earning her the well-deserved title of “Queen of Spreadsheets.” Her passion and resourcefulness make her an indispensable pillar of our team.
Bridget Nagarajan
Board Member (and former GSES Teacher)
Bridget holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and brings a deep well of experience to GSES. Formerly the Director of a preschool, she now serves as a dedicated School Counselor at a private school in Long Beach, CA. Bridget’s background gives her a unique ability to connect with both children and parents, offering compassionate guidance and insight. Her commitment to fostering emotional well-being and healthy communication enriches every aspect of GSES’s work, making her an invaluable asset to our mission.
Cathy Lynch
Board Member
Cathy is no stranger to the nonprofit world, having previously held leadership roles with a local arts nonprofit in Ohio. Her extensive experience in nonprofit management, community engagement, and organizational leadership brings valuable perspective to GSES. Cathy’s passion for service and commitment to building vibrant, mission-driven organizations strengthen our team and help GSES thrive.
Kirsten A. Shultis
Board Member
Kirsten holds an MBA from UCONN and combines her analytical expertise with a collaborative spirit to support GSES’s mission. Her passion for numbers, strategic thinking, and dedication to teamwork help guide our financial decisions and planning. Kirsten’s commitment to excellence ensures that GSES remains both mission-driven and financially sustainable, making her an essential part of our leadership team.