2023 Axis Glow Up Gala Program

OCTOBER 14, 2023 7–10 pm SoLa Beehive 1000 E 60th St, Los Angeles, CA 90001

Glow Up Gala

EVENING PROGRAM

6:00 PM

VIP Reception

7:00 PM

General Admission & Food Trucks Open Billionaire Burger Boyz Nay’s Tacos The Original 5C’s Seafood

8:00 PM

Performance XOHA Axis Student Intern

Welcome KEVIN FRAZIER Master of Ceremonies

Special Remarks COLLETTE BOWERS ZINN Founder & Executive Director Private School Axis

2023 Reveta Bowers Legacy Award Recipient CHRISTOPHER DENNIS Associate Head of Community Engagement Campbell Hall

Axis Family Spotlight THE SANDERS FAMILY

2023 Glow Up Gala Honorees JENNIFER BURNHAM-GRUBBS & ADAPIA D’ERRICO Co-Founders Womxn of Wealth BRIDGID COULTER CHEADLE Founder & CEO Blackbird Collective

8:50 PM

Let’s Glow!

DJ Zuri Marley Glow Up Mini Golf Glow Up Swing

9:20 PM

Raffle Giveaway

10:00 PM

Gala Concludes

GLOW UP CHALLENGE Light up your Glow Up Challenge card by completing all of these activities:

1 TAKE A PHOTO at the Glow Up Gala Floral Wall 2 POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND TAG @privateschoolaxis and #AxisGlowUpGala

3 INTRODUCE YOURSELF to a member of TEAM AXIS 4 VISIT THE GLOW UP SWING 5 PLAY A ROUND OF GLOW UP MINI GOLF

www.privateschoolaxis.org

2023 Glow Up Gala Honorees ADAPIA D’ERRICO and JENNIFER BURNHAMGRUBBS are the Co-Founders of Womxn of Wealth (WOW), a

501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering women through financial literacy, fluency, and mastery. WOW’s inclusive approach assists women across all socioeconomic strata, establishing financial stability and fostering a culture of well-informed charitable giving.

ADAPIA D’ERRICO is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and advisor with over 20 years of experience in the financial industry.

Her career has spanned banking, insurance, hedge funds, private equity real estate, venture capital, and digital assets. AdaPia is a Principal at Alpha Investing, a real estate private equity firm, and the general partner of Bitcoin Mining Womxn, a digital asset syndication platform. She is a sought-after advisor and speaker, renowned for her insights on online capital raising, female entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.

AdaPia is a force for positive change in the world of finance, and is passionate about empowering women to become stewards of personal and global wealth.

JENNIFER BURNHAM-GRUBBS is the Founder and CEO of Quantum Insurance Services, an award-winning brokerage firm for health and wealth protection and growth. She is renowned for her strategic insights into A-rated insurance products that build wealth, financial freedom, and security. Jennifer is deeply committed to building wealth for the power of good, and especially passionate about building financial acumen in women. She is the co-creator of the Wealth Mastery for Women series, a monthly webinar hosted by LeadHERship Global that encourages women to move in the direction of their purpose, mission, and dreams through financial education.

www.privateschoolaxis.org

2023 Glow Up Gala Honoree BRIDGID COULTER CHEADLE is an award-winning,

serial entrepreneur and philanthropist with a decades-long history of advocating for access to education and protection of the environment.

Bridgid is celebrated for her family’s philanthropic work with a focus on climate change, social justice, political decency, women’s equity, and education for the historically marginalized.

In 2018, Bridgid founded Blackbird Collective, a public benefit corporation and the preeminent private membership collective for women of color and allies to create positive social and economic change for each other and the world.

Blackbird is a curated network of work, wellbeing, and creative programming studios offering inspired space for entrepreneurs, makers, storytellers, executives, practitioners, trailblazers, content creators, and change makers to gather and work both individually and together, in person and virtually.

In 2020, Bridgid founded Blackbird Alliance, the non-profit sister organization to the collective, to further support advancement through sponsorship, mentorship, and technical training.

Bridgid has received numerous awards for her work as a producer, designer, and trailblazer, including the National Distinguished 400 Award from the 400 Years of African American History Commission, Stewardship of Sustainable Design from City of Santa Monica, Woman of the Year by the County of Los Angeles District 2, and most recently a Tony Award as one of the producers of A Strange Loop, winner of best Broadway musical.

www.privateschoolaxis.org

2023 Reveta Bowers

LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT CHRISTOPHER S. DENNIS,

founder of the Campbell Hall Campus Culture Group, is an educator and consultant centering on social justice and equity through authentic change management, leadership, policy, and governance in K-12 and post-secondary education. Dennis recently served as the Director of the Hamoui Family Sage Center at Sage Center School in Newport Coast, CA. Prior to joining Sage Hill School, he served as the Director of Equity and Diversity at the Collegiate School of New York.

His professional journey began at Concordia University in Saint Paul, Minnesota as a program supervisor in the Student of Color Retention Program and an instructor in the Ramsey County Juvenile Detention Center with the Urban Education Summer Scholar Program. In these positions, Christopher helped urban learners identify their strengths and use their innate resiliency to maximize and ensure success in higher education. Christopher earned his B.A. in Kinesiology and his M.S. in Organizational Management from Concordia University before obtaining his M.Ed in Higher Education Administration and Policy from the University of California, Riverside (UCR). Christopher is currently in a doctoral program at the University of San Diego for Education for Social Justice.

As an undergraduate admissions counselor at Concordia and UCR, Christopher conducted outreach to urban students and helped them realize their post-secondary education goals. He also acted as a mentor to students in need of more extensive guidance and advocacy. As an assistant football coach and athletic recruiter, Christopher leveraged core values of organized sports, such as discipline and time management, to exhibit how habits learned on the field could translate into success in the classroom.

Additionally, he has spent a decade advancing diverse student access and equity in Southern California through organizations such as A Better Chance, Inc. He has served on the boards of the National Black MBA Association’s L.A. chapter and Project Onyx Youth Leadership Institute.

He is a current Academy of the Mind Charter School board member and a dedicated advocate for inclusive school communities.

Entertainment KEVIN FRAZIER Master of Ceremonies Kevin Frazier is co-host of the Emmy Award-winning syndicated entertainment newsmagazine “Entertainment Tonight.” He continues to have a lasting impact on the entertainment industry as a multi-faceted journalist, producer and entrepreneur. He has interviewed Hollywood’s biggest stars from Oprah Winfrey to Brad Pitt to Beyoncé. In addition to his position on ET, where he has won six Emmy Awards, Frazier has kept busy hosting numerous shows and events. He is an active member of the Los Angeles civic community and frequently participates in events and speaking engagements for charitable organizations. He is also a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

XOHA Performer XOHA is a singer-songwriter, 10th grade student at one of Axis’ Partner Schools, and an Axis Student Intern. Since the age of five, music and performance have been a part of her being. Over the years, she was frequently selected to play the lead in musicals, sang at school events, performed at talent shows, and many outside opportunities. XOHA’s influences include a wide variety of music from choir and theatrical music, to Guns n Roses, Dire Straits, and Lauryn Hill. These influences appear in her creations, as her catchy, retro-contemporary pop tunes are interlaced with vibrations of the past with inspirations from the last several decades.

ZURI MARLEY DJ Zuri Marley is a musician, DJ, actress, and beauty aficionado born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica and currently living in Los Angeles, CA. Marley has been featured as a vocalist on tracks alongside the likes of Blood Orange and Brockhampton. She’s a star in the making and has been featured by publications such as GQ, Vogue, V, and i-D. She graduated with a BFA in Recorded Music Business at New York University’s Tisch School of The Arts.

www.privateschoolaxis.org

Axis Partner School Fair 2023

Our MISSION and VISION Axis’ mission is to partner with Los Angeles area independent schools to create pathways for underrepresented students and families of color to access, navigate, and thrive in private education.

We accomplish this by: l

guiding, supporting, and representing families of color as they navigate the admissions process and for the duration of their independent school journey;

l

helping educators of color connect with our Partner Schools and find employment at a school that aligns with their educational philosophy and professional goals; and

l

providing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accountability (DEIA) consulting and accreditation for our Partner Schools.

We envision diverse independent school communities that ensure equal opportunity for all students and educators in Los Angeles.

Research shows that diversity enriches the learning experience for all students. Racial and socioeconomic diversity in educational settings reduces prejudice and improves students’ critical thinking by allowing them to consider perspectives different from their own (The Century Foundation).

By supporting more students and educators of color to access independent school opportunities, we improve learning outcomes for all students and take strides toward diversity and equality in our society as a whole.

www.privateschoolaxis.org

Cohort 3 families at the 2023 Axis Orientation

www.privateschoolaxis.org

AXIS PROGRAMS STUDENT PLACEMENT Axis guides, supports, and represents students and families of color throughout the independent school admissions process and for the duration of their independent school journey. We are there every step of the way to serve as advocates and partners for the families in our cohorts as they navigate their new school communities.

“

We never thought private school was an option for our family. Axis is what we had been looking for—someone to help us navigate this unknown world and give us the opportunity to

”

help our child thrive.

– Cohort 3 parent

K CLIC ur do to rea 023 -2 2022 Report ct

Impa

EDUCATOR PLACEMENT In addition to ensuring that student populations are representative of the diversity of Los Angeles through our Student Placement Program, we also actively support the diversification of independent school faculties. We help educators of color connect with our Partner Schools and find employment at a school that aligns with their educational philosophy and professional goals.

We provide tailored support to members of our annual cohort as BIPOC employees in independent schools.

“

Our school partners with Axis because it is important to us to support organizations that are working to transform the culture of independent schools, particularly for students

”

and families of color.

– The School of Los Angeles

DEIA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & ACCREDITATION Axis is creating a first-of-its-kind Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accountability (DEIA) Accreditation to support our Partner Schools in assessing and strengthening their DEIA policies and practices. We provide ongoing professional development and consulting to ensure our Partner Schools are the healthy, inclusive spaces needed to attract and sustain diversity.

www.privateschoolaxis.org

We are proud of our COHORT 2 STUDENTS for their 93% ACCEPTANCE RATE at our Partner Schools

Text UP’ W O ‘GL 192 9 9 o t nate o d o t

COHORT 3 STUDENTS

Live Auction Preview

CAYMAN ISLANDS VACATION PACKAGE Luxury Cayman Islands Escape for Two Embark on a dream getaway for two to the enchanting Cayman Islands, where sun-soaked adventures and unparalleled relaxation await. This extraordinary package invites you to experience three nights and four days of pure bliss along the renowned Seven Mile Beach, a Caribbean gem recognized as one of the Ultimate Beaches by Caribbean Travel + Life magazine. Discover why Cayman is the ultimate Caribbean destination.

Premium Travel by Cayman Airways Your journey begins in style with two business-class tickets on Cayman Airways, now offering direct service from LAX for a smooth and enjoyable 4 ½-hour flight. Sip on refreshing fruit punch as you embark on this luxurious getaway.

VIP Arrival with Cayman Airport Authority Upon landing, your exclusive VIP greeting service courtesy of Cayman Islands Airport Authority will whisk you through customs and immigration with utmost convenience and hospitality.

Indulge in Luxury at Caribbean Club Unwind in the lap of luxury at the Caribbean Club, an opulent all-suite boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Seven Mile Beach. Choose from 1-3 bedroom suites and Villas nestled on the pristine white sands. Revel in the abundance of personal space on the beach, complete with comfortable chairs, umbrellas and food service always at your disposal.

Greek Culinary Delights at Mykonos Savor an unforgettable dinner for two at Mykonos, the hottest and newest restaurant on the island ($350 CI value). Immerse yourself in the flavors, atmosphere, and carefree spirit of Greek Summer Islands life. Delight in the relaxed elegance, extensive menus, and fresh ingredients, including baked goods from their in-house bakery. Mykonos boasts the largest 100-point wine and champagne selection in the region, making it the ultimate destination to unwind and relish with friends and family.

Join the endless summer vibes at “the Grove” in the heart of Seven Mile Beach.

Gourmet Dining at Cayman Cabana Treat yourself to a sumptuous 3-course dinner for two at Cayman Cabana, complete with a bottle of champagne ($300 CI value). Cayman Cabana celebrates local cultures, sourcing the freshest produce from local farmers, artisanal producers, and fishermen. Owner Luigi Moxim will take you on a culinary journey, sharing the flavors and traditions of Cayman culture through a feast of indigenous tastes.

CLICK to see Video

Bioluminescent Bay Adventure with Cayman Kayaks Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime private charter adventure on a new electric-powered catamaran to the Cayman Bioluminescent Bay. After a delectable dinner, witness the water come to life between your fingers and toes in this captivating natural phenomenon—an absolute “must-do” on your vacation checklist.

Sunset Sail with Red Sail Sports Conclude your unforgettable trip with a private sunset charter by Red Sail Sports, Cayman’s premier water sports outfit. Sail in luxury aboard a 65 ft catamaran as the golden hour begins, feeling the cool Caribbean breeze along Seven Mile Beach's picturesque shoreline. Watch in awe as the sun sets in a blaze of vibrant colors, creating lasting memories of this extraordinary getaway.

Bid now for this extraordinary Cayman Islands experience, where every moment promises luxury, adventure, and relaxation beyond your dreams!

www.privateschoolaxis.org

Congratulations, Axis, for your success in creating access for our underrepresented students and families of color to our independent schools. YOU are definitely making our region’s independent schools stronger and better for ALL STUDENTS.

Much love and aloha,

Don and Doreen Oleson

Thank you to our GALA COMMITTEE

KAHLANA BARFIELD BROWN Fashion and Beauty Editor and Expert

TODD HAWKINS Vice President The Hawkins Company

MIA NOVACK

CEO, Platinum Events + Productions Agency

BOLAJI IDAKOJI Co-Founder, Picnics in the Bay

IMAN FARRIOR

TV Business Affairs Executive, Creative Artists Agency

RITA SILVA

Director of Leadership, Engagement & Student Life, The Country School

TEAM AXIS

COLLETTE BOWERS ZINN, J.D., M.Ed. Founder + Executive Director

ANNIKA IHNAT

Advancement Communications Coordinator

KIKI WALKER

Director of Operations

DALIA CAUDLE

Executive Assistant to the Founder/Executive Director

CHUCK NEDDERMEYER

Director of Programs and Associate Director for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accountability

www.privateschoolaxis.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHERIE MATTHEWS Board Chair

Vice President, Talent Strategy & Development Capital Group

RASHEDA CARROLL Assistant Head of School Westland School

MAI LASSITER

Board Member Clara Lionel Foundation

ANDREW SMITH LEWIS Vice Board Chair Founder & CEO ASL Industries

NOAH FRANCIS

KAWANNA BROWN

Chief Operating Officer Magic Johnson Enterprises

YC (YANGCHEN) LAMA

Vice President & Banker Senior Vice President of Wealth Management J.P. Morgan Los Angeles Private Bank Morgan Stanley

JOHN MCMICHAEL

Vice President & Banker J.P. Morgan Los Angeles Private Bank

AARON MIESZCZANSKI Consultant, Education and Social Impact Practice Spencer Stuart

HUEY MERCHANT

Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist Child and Family Guidance Center

SAMANTHA VINCENT President One Race Films

FOUNDING ADVISORY BOARD

ART BECERRA-FRAIJO

Co-Founder, Managing Partner Toledo Development, LLC

KELLIE HAWKINS DAVIS Partner EKA

CHARISSE BREMOND WEAVER President & CEO Brotherhood Crusade

JERMAINE JOHNSON Manager & Producer 3Arts Entertainment

LAURA KONIGSBERG Head of School Turning Point School

JANINE JONES

Assistant Head of School for Community and Belonging Harvard-Westlake School

JASON LUKOSE

Professional Development Consultant Curriculum Associates

EMMANUEL MIDY

Manager, Media & Entertainment Performance Roku

GRAY LUSK

Founding Partner SoLa Impact

FARAH VELASQUEZ Capital Strategy Associate Mission Driven Finance

www.privateschoolaxis.org

Thank you to our

GLOW UP GALA SPONSORS SHINE SPONSOR Don and Doreen Oleson SPARKLE SPONSOR

GLOW SPONSORS Cindy and Bob Broder Dionne and Noah Francis Huey Merchant

Evis and James Shaffer

FRIENDS OF AXIS Kawanna Brown

Amanda Murray

Don and Eileen Coskey Fracchia

Tarlin Ray

Kerri Harper-Howie

Kara Sax

Maria Lawrence

Andrew Smith Lewis

Anita and Corey Martin

Kate Taylor Clewell

Aaron Mieszczanski

Ekong Udoekwere

Walter Mosley

Lauren White

Jenna Murdock

Zoe Zeigler and Jeremiah Erby

AXIS ADVOCATES Mia Novack

IN-KIND DONORS

EVENT STAFF

www.privateschoolaxis.org

Text UP’ W O ‘GL 192 to 99 ate n to do

www.privateschoolaxis.org