
Executive Director
Graduating with a Sociology degree from the University of Hawaii, Desi has always gravitated towards helping, teaching, and learning about others. Desi has had various internships and job opportunities over her blossoming career that have molded her into the driven, caring, compassionate businesswoman she is today. Desi has experienced life-altering work-place opportunities like guiding and supporting middle school ESL students as they transitioned to a new normal while receiving a formal education. In college, she was also chosen out of many applicants to be a Resident Assistant who led educational programs, planned community activities, and aided three dorms with any instructive, social, or health-related needs. On university breaks, Desi was the Assistant Director of a summer camp that provided services to adolescents with disabilities. While holding the Assistant Director’s title, Desi completed two study abroad programs in Seville, Spain, and London, England. She also worked at a supporting living agency as both a Direct Support Professional, assisting adults with meaningful daily living tasks and community engagement, and an administrative intern, learning the valuable skills necessary to run and engage in a thriving business environment. After graduating, Desi took on a Manager of Quality position at a day program for adults with disabilities, serving 250 individuals and 75 staff. After about two years, she was asked to make roots at one of the company’s central locations to be the Site Director. After eleven years in the field, Desi has enjoyed working alongside and supporting people of all backgrounds, disabilities, and mental health diagnoses. Desi finds the work done at the Next Chapter Book Club to be very fulfilling and thinks it a pleasure to watch the members further their learning and social development. In her spare time, you can find Desi singing and dancing with her dog or diving into the latest TV series.