Biography

Dr. Yohana I. Quiroz, a highly accomplished chief operations officer, currently holds a pivotal role at Felton Institute in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area. With an impressive career spanning 25 years, Dr. Quiroz has dedicated herself to working with diverse, low-income at-promise clients, navigating their unique challenges and abilities. At Felton Institute, she spearheads the development of a compelling vision and skillfully manages a substantial $22 million budget. This budget supports various publicly funded early care and education programs, early intervention and inclusion initiatives, family support services, and community-based behavioral/mental health programs. Driven by a holistic, culturally responsive approach, these efforts aim to create a positive impact through a two-generation framework.

One of Dr. Quiroz's notable achievements includes leading strategic partnerships that have contributed to the organization's significant growth and success. She has played a crucial role in program development and expansion, specifically in establishing new co-located Early Care and Education (ECE) projects within affordable housing communities across three distinct San Francisco neighborhoods. Additionally, Dr. Quiroz's expertise helps set and continuously align the organization's direction with critical strategic priorities. Her profound understanding of the communities they serve, the evolving landscape of non-profit organizations, and the core capabilities of her own organization enable her to make informed decisions.

As a lifelong learner and advocate, Dr. Quiroz ensures that her work consistently focuses on celebrating and elevating the lived experiences of BIPOC children, youth, and their families. She also recognizes the importance of nurturing the workforce dedicated to their professional growth and education. Dr. Quiroz's impressive educational background further demonstrates her commitment to excellence in the field of ECE. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership in P-20 from San Francisco State University, a Master of Arts degree in Organization and Leadership in Education from the University of San Francisco, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child and Adolescent Development, with a concentration in Early Childhood Education, from San Francisco State University. Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Quiroz channels her passion into mentoring young individuals, particularly first-generation college students and women aspiring to leadership roles in education. She also finds joy in gardening, cooking, and cherishing quality time with her loved ones.