Welcome From The New Executive Director

Dear 49ers Academy Family,

I am humbled and honored to take on the role of Executive Director at the 49ers Academy. This is an incredible opportunity that speaks to my passion and guiding principle that all young people should have equitable access and opportunity to thrive in education and future endeavors.

I am grateful to our outgoing Executive Director, Michele Sharkey, for her 25 years of vision and hard work. Her leadership has been instrumental, especially through this transition. Over the last two years, Michele and I worked closely to strengthen the Academy’s organizational priorities and impact. I am thrilled that she will continue to work with us in her new role as Founder. I also want to thank the board of directors for their faith in my ability to lead this organization.

For those who I have not met yet, I wanted to share a bit about my background. I have my Master’s in Social Work with a specialization in Organizational Development and a BS in Criminal Justice. Over the past 15 years, I have been working with young people and marginalized groups in various settings, including a crisis manager, program analyst, executive coach, and nonprofit executive. 

By now, we know the ways that a pandemic has laid bare the stark inequities in this country. As Executive Director, I remain fervent, more than ever, about closing the opportunity gap and supporting young people to reach their full potential. One of my main priorities is preserving and building upon the incredible 25-year-old legacy of this organization while simultaneously looking toward the future with growth in mind. We will continue to provide quality programming and deepen our partnerships to ensure we offer resources and support our students and families deserve. Most importantly, we will continue to structure our work from an equitable and anti-racist framework and uplift the most marginalized voices. 

I would also like to recognize the tremendous effort put forth by the 49ers Academy team - a fantastic group of talented people who make our organization what it is today. Their collective skills and passion are unmatched and I appreciate their dedication to our work and look forward to leading the organization alongside them.

Our work wouldn’t be possible without such a powerful community of supporters. I want you to know that my door is always open. Each of you has a unique perspective on our community’s needs, and I'm eager to hear your thoughts. Once our local health officials allow, we have plans to come together again as a community to celebrate our 25th anniversary. 

I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the years to come. Thank you for your continued commitment to the 49ers Academy.

With Appreciation,

Tahisha S. Victor
Executive Director