Meet Our Team

Nicole Aguinaldo, Program Director

Nicole's journey in non-profit work began with an internship at the Southern California Hospice Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of terminally ill patients and their families. Quickly recognizing her passion for this type of work, she pursued opportunities to build her skills and knowledge. After graduating from California State University Fullerton with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, Nicole continued to pursue her passion for non-profit work by becoming a program coordinator for the Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation and University Advancement. In 2019, Nicole started working at the West Valley-Mission Community College District, where she is driven to make a meaningful impact and lasting change in the community by empowering students to achieve educational access and success. When she's not working, you can find Nicole hitting the slopes for a skiing adventure or heading to the beach for a relaxing day by the water. She also likes to dance, having practiced ballet since the age of five and enjoys other styles like hip hop, jazz, and contemporary dance.

Joanne Cao, Financial Analyst

Joanne immigrated to the United States to pursue her studies. During her time at the University of Rhode Island, she supported her education by working as a student assistant in the Controller's Office. After earning her Master's degree in Accounting, Joanne went on to work as a financial analyst and accountant for several prominent nonprofit organizations, including the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Mayo Clinic, and San Jose State University. In these roles, she played a vital role in ensuring the accuracy of financial records and supporting important financial decisions.

Since 2016, Joanne has been a valued member of the West Valley-Mission Community College District team. As a resident of Saratoga, she is proud to serve her community and the district with dedication and professionalism.

Melissa Johns, Associate Vice Chancellor, Advancement

Melissa is an impactful advocate for equity in education. Prior to joining the West Valley-Mission Community College District in 2021, Melissa held executive leadership roles at a variety of Bay Area non-profit organizations. She served as Executive Vice President at Pivotal, an organization that helps young people from foster care realize their goals through access to education and employment opportunities. Before Pivotal, Melissa spent five years as Executive Director at Breakthrough Silicon Valley, a successful college access program which offers six years of academic enrichment and preparation for college to high-potential middle and high school students whose families have limited resources. Prior to her executive leadership positions, Melissa developed her skill set as a professional fundraiser in various educational institutions.

In her spare time, Melissa loves hiking with friends, going to San Francisco Giants games, cooking elaborate meals, traveling to places that take her outside of her comfort zone, and spending quality time with her two children.

Danny Anaya-De Leon, Student Assistant

Danny is a student at West Valley College working to transfer to a four-year university and obtain degrees in both English and Film & TV Production. Apart from wanting to pursue a creative and innovative career, Danny is also strongly interested in working towards a philanthropy path and wants to assist as many people in need as possible. To expand his skills, knowledge, and overall career goals, he is working hard with Nicole, Melissa, and Joanne to help provide both the West Valley-Mission Foundation and the Office of Advancement with the best and most efficient process for students, donors, faculty, and staff.

In his personal time, Danny enjoys a variety of creative activities, such as writing, painting, and photography, as well as reading, watching TV shows, and playing chess.