Columbus City Education Foundation Announces Inaugural Board of Trustees

COLUMBUS, OH — The Columbus City Education Foundation (CCEF) today announced its inaugural Board of Trustees, a defining milestone in the Foundation's mission to expand opportunity, strengthen schools, and champion student success across Columbus City Schools.

Founded to mobilize resources, strengthen strategic partnerships, and accelerate community investment, CCEF is committed to ensuring every student in Columbus City Schools has access to the experiences, support, and opportunities needed to thrive both in the classroom and beyond. 

The Board unites respected leaders from education, law, business, public service, and community advocacy, all bound by a shared commitment to Columbus and its students. Together, they will shape the Foundation's vision, deepen community partnerships, and advance its long-term impact and sustainability.

"This is more than a board launch, it is the beginning of a lasting institution dedicated to the future of Columbus City Schools," said Christina Vera, CCEF Executive Advisor and CCS alumna. "This moment reflects what is possible when a community comes together to invest in its students and the future of our city."

Board of Trustees

Danya Hamad — Board President

Municipal Attorney, Franklin County Public Defender's Office

Hamad graduated from Capital University Law School and became one of the youngest lawyers in U.S. history. She brings legal expertise, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to expanding access and opportunity for students and families across Central Ohio.

Marina J. King, MBA — Board Vice President

Realtor and Entrepreneur

A Bowling Green State University (BGSU) graduate with a degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Finance, King brings more than 22 years of experience as a state government professional, alongside expertise as a licensed realtor, entrepreneur, and community advocate in Columbus.

Mary Ann Potter — Board Treasurer

Retired Banker

A proud Columbus City Schools alumna of Centennial High School and graduate of The Ohio State University, Potter offers decades of financial expertise and a longstanding commitment to strengthening the connection between schools and the communities they serve.

Lauren Lopez — Board Secretary

Director of Attendance, Climate, and Culture, Columbus City Schools

A graduate of The Ohio State University, Lopez brings more than 14 years of experience across the K–16 education landscape, with deep expertise in student engagement, school culture, and the systems that drive student-centered outcomes.

Giselle M. Lindsay, MPA — Trustee

Program Administrator, Ohio Commission on Minority Health

A proud Columbus City Schools alumna of Northland High School and graduate of Wright State University, Lindsay brings a strong foundation in public service and a personal dedication to giving back to the District that helped shape her path.

Asia A. Pope — Trustee

Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, The Buckeye Ranch

A graduate of DeVry University, Pope brings proven leadership in inclusive strategy and organizational change, focused on ensuring every student has access to the resources and opportunities they deserve.

"Education has always been deeply important to me," said Board President Hamad. "Not every student has equitable access to the tools, programs, or higher education opportunities they need, but I believe we can change that. That belief drew me to this Board, and that passion will guide my service. Our students deserve it. Their families deserve it. Our community deserves it."

The Columbus City Education Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit working in partnership with Columbus City Schools, students, staff, alumni, and the greater Columbus community. Its mission is to mobilize community support, strengthen partnerships, and invest in strategies that expand opportunity and drive student success across the District.

For more information, visit FundCCS.org.