We thank the members of our Governing Board for their dedication to upholding the mission and values at Taylion. The board of directors and staff at Taylion pursue excellence in all they do, working hard to support students and families in becoming college and career ready through personalized learning.
Taylion High Desert Academy Board of Directors
Tadios Belay
President
Dr. Tadios Belay has over ten years of experience in education, academic research, advocacy, human rights, immigration, legal service, teaching and non-profit management. As President, he serves as an advocate and liaison between the school and community and supports students in achieving their goals in the classroom and beyond.
- L. B. in General Law from Hawasa University
- L. M. in International and Comparative Law from University of San Francisco
- Completed Executive Education program at Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government
- Doctor of Education from University of Southern California
Kimberly Tucker
Secretary and Treasurer
Tadios Belay
Board Member
Dr. Tadios Belay has over ten years of experience in education, academic research, advocacy, human rights, immigration, legal service, teaching and non-profit management. As President, he serves as an advocate and liaison between the school and community and supports students in achieving their goals in the classroom and beyond.
Cathlyn Choi
Board Member
Cathlyn works as a television and film producer and host. She is a community activities and financial services specialist, with over 25 years of experience in international business development, sales, and marketing. She proudly serves as a board member for Taylion and is invested in the success of students and families in the community.
- L. B. in General Law from Hawasa University
- L. M. in International and Comparative Law from University of San Francisco
- Completed Executive Education program at Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government
- Doctor of Education from University of Southern California
Scott Thayer
Board Member
Dr. Scott Thayer has worked in the California community college system for over 20 years. His administrative experience includes leading areas of student affairs and services programs at single college or multi-campus community college districts. He also has extensive teaching experience with curriculum development and has taught at a college, elementary, middle school, and high school levels. He is highly passionate about student achievement, persistence and graduation of historically underrepresented, low-income students.
- A.A. in Liberal Studies from Normandale Community College
- B.A. in Psychology from Rollins College
- B.A. in Psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University
- Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from University of Southern California
