CEO, ProYouth    

Dr. Marie Pinto exemplifies exceptional leadership in the Region 7 Expanded Learning ecosystem, making her a deserved candidate for the award. Her visionary approach has bridged gaps between schools and community partners, between diverse programs and colleagues, and between traditional paradigms for workforce recruitment and current reality by establishing an internship program that exists to mitigate staffing issues. Additionally, Marie and her team coordinate about 650,000 meals for students in program annually. They are committed to offering students high-quality experiences. She and her team serve approx 50 school districts in Tulare and Monterey counties, and growing, as a result of ELO-P. Dr. Pinto’s tireless dedication to fostering innovative programs, engaging communities, and empowering her staff has made ProYouth a valued partner in the local Expanded Learning ecosystem.     Dr. Marie Pinto currently serves as the CEO for ProYouth, a non-profit organization in Tulare County. She is a former teacher at the high school and adult levels. Developing business courses and a strong career pathways program were major contributions leading to her role as Assistant Superintendent which she retired from about four years ago. Marie stepped into the CEO role following her retirement and under her leadership the organization has expanded and continues to expand.