Llorente’s influence on the organization traces back to her time as a parent volunteer following her daughter’s dyslexia diagnosis. Her leadership focused on scaling fundraising efforts and pushing for systemic innovation in reading support. Reflecting on her time with the nonprofit, she noted that her professional commitment grew directly from a personal journey to secure equal access for struggling students.

Incoming chair Dan Koken transitions into the role with a background in education entrepreneurship, specifically through his work as founder and CEO of Denver Test Prep. Koken plans to work alongside CEO Howard Bell to expand the nonprofit’s reach in reading intervention. Bell highlighted Koken’s experience in supporting diverse learners as a key asset for the organization’s future growth, while emphasizing that Llorente’s long-standing advocacy remains foundational to the group’s mission.