Board Members

Yanetsy Garay is a proud Syracuse University graduate, driven by a passion for helping others and creating positive change. Originally from Cuba, she began her artistic journey with the celebrated dance group La Colmenita and later performed for many years with La Joven Guardia del Teatro Latino. Yanetsy has earned numerous awards for both academic excellence and artistic talent. Today, she continues to shine as a role model, using her voice and experiences to inspire and uplift her community.

Luisito is a dedicated Police Officer and EMT whose life’s work centers on protecting and uplifting his community. A former actor and the founder of La Joven Guardia del Teatro Latino, he has inspired countless young performers through the power of the arts. His commitment to service—both on stage and in the field—has earned him numerous awards and the admiration of many. Luisito continues to lead with heart, courage, and a deep passion for making a difference.

Fanny is the Executive Director of the YWCA of Syracuse and Onondaga County, where she leads with purpose, compassion, and a fierce commitment to justice. A tireless advocate for women, racial equity, and community empowerment, she works every day to create lasting change. Through her leadership, the YWCA continues to be a powerful force for dignity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

A retired bilingual Pre-K special education teacher, Shirley dedicated her career to nurturing the potential of every child, regardless of language or ability. Her passion for equity and global well-being continues as an active board member of Doctors for Global Health, where she advocates for social justice and community-centered healthcare around the world.

Marilu is a gifted visual storyteller whose work has captured powerful moments and sparked meaningful dialogue. With a background as a photojournalist for The Observer-Dispatch, she has spent years documenting real stories with depth, empathy, and purpose. She continues to bring that same passion to her current roles at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and The Post-Standard, where her creative lens helps connect people to nature, truth, and community.

Marilu’s dedication to storytelling, education, and impact reflects her unwavering belief in the power of images to inspire change and understanding. She is a champion for truth, beauty, and the voices that too often go unseen.

Tanisha is a visionary leader and educator, serving as Executive Director of the Community Folk Art Center (CFAC) and professor of practice in the Department of African American Studies. She is deeply committed to using art and culture as powerful tools for healing, empowerment, and social justice. Through her work, Tanisha inspires communities to embrace their stories, celebrate their heritage, and ignite meaningful change. Her passion fuels a transformative vision where creativity uplifts voices, bridges divides, and shapes a more equitable future for all.

Janette is a devoted mother and passionate community leader who balances family and entrepreneurship with grace. As the proud mother of a member of La Joven Guardia del Teatro Latino, she supports the arts and the growth of young talent. As the owner of Syracuse’s beloved daycare, Happy House, Janette creates a nurturing and joyful environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Her dedication to family, education, and community shines through in everything she does, inspiring those around her every day.

Ana began her career as a child actress, performing with the Joven Guardia del Teatro Latino from the age of five until seventeen. She went on to pursue higher education at LeMoyne College, where she studied Marketing and Management Information Systems. Currently, she is furthering her education by completing an MBA while working in the IT department of a local company. Outside of her professional life, Ana enjoys participating in spin classes and is passionate about giving back to her community through active volunteerism.

Kimberly began her journey as a child actress with the Joven Guardia del Teatro Latino, performing from the ages of five to eleven. She has since returned to support the theatre she once called home, helping to create opportunities for a new generation of young performers to shine just as she once did.

Board Members

Yanetsy Garay

Luis A. Figueroa

Fanny Villarreal

Shirley Novak

Marilu Lopez Fretts

Tanisha Jackson

Janette Tejeda

Ana E. Lyon (maiden: Martinez)

Kimberly Santana