BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Turning potential into action for every youth, adult, and family!
Tamara johnson
Executive Director, Board President
Ms. Johnson is the Founder and Executive Director. The organization is headquartered in Lathrop, California. Ms. Johnson’s strong commitment to social justice and equality led her to found MSF in 2015. Ms. Johnson has over 20 years’ experience working with at-risk youth and marginalized communities. She holds a Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in children, youth, and families. Ms. Johnson also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication with a minor in Psychology. Ms. Johnson is presently pursuing a Doctor of Psychology degree with a special emphasis on African American health and well-being.
Dr. Alexis Jones
Board Vice President
Dr. Jones is a native of Stockton, California. She obtained her Bachelors in Sociology, master’s in social work, and doctorate in healthcare leadership from the University of the Pacific. Dr. Jones is passionate about helping young people, especially in Central Valley, California. Dr. Jones is a medical social worker and therapist. Outside of her career, she encourages people to seek higher education and skill trades. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her children, reading, and collecting sneakers.
David Griffen
Board Secretary
Mr. Griffen is a San Jose State University graduate. He holds a BA in political science. He has been active in politics and labor practices for more than 20+ years. He served on the executive boards of the San Joaquin and Calaveras Counties Central Labor Council and the San Joaquin County WorkNet. Mr. Griffen is a 3rd generation longshoreman who has been an active member of ILWU Local 54. He has served as a Political Action Committee Chairman, Labor Relations Committee member, and local President. In this role, he represented union members in disputes with employers and during arbitrations. He fought for fairness, unfair hiring practices of union walking employers and their bosses who discriminated against African Americans and women, and jurisdiction. He ended this practice after a long legal battle. The ILWU’s political activities were crucial in the elections of local, state, and federal officers. This includes well-known political figures like Congressman Jerry McNerney and California State Senator Susan Talamentes Eggman.
Dr. Laura Strickland
Board Member
Dr. Strickland is a licensed clinical psychologist. She earned her Doctoral degree from Argosy University in 201. She also obtained a license to practice clinical psychology in the State of California in 2020. She has experience conducting adult ADHD testing and providing therapy for adolescents and adults. She has worked for Through the Looking Glass and Valley Community Counseling Services, Katie-A Services conducting CFTs, and Early HeadStart Program. Dr. Strickland brings a wealth of experience from various community-based organizations to the MSF board.
Dr. Tammé Shinshuri
Board Advisor
Dr. Shinshuri is the Founder and fearless Executive Leader of Oracles of Truth Academy. She holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Master of Education in Instructional Technology, and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and has more than thirty years’ experience in digital media, education, instructional technology, information technology, and engineering fields. She provides leadership and direction to mentor, coach, and guide the board and organization.
Board Vacancy
Board Treasurer
This is a vacant position that the board is actively seeking an experienced and reliable candidate with a finance background to place in this position.