Board of Directors

Dr. Vanessa Sheared has more than 30 years of experience in adult and higher education as a faculty member, administrator, researcher, and nonprofit board leader. She serves as Board Chair of Closing the Gap and previously served as President of the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education. Her work focuses on educational access, equity, and learning development.

Dr. BJ Snowden is an equity-driven higher education leader with more than 20 years of experience in academic affairs, student affairs, and institutional effectiveness. He currently serves as Senior Executive Director for Creative Industries, Partnerships, and Personnel at Sacramento State’s College of Arts and Letters. His leadership includes statewide work advancing Black student success, equity-minded policies, and community impact.

Larry Brooks brings more than 30 years of public-sector experience, including roles with Sacramento County, the City of West Sacramento, and Alameda County. He began volunteering with Closing the Gap in 2011 and later became a board member and Treasurer. Larry has also helped lead the organization’s Big Day of Giving efforts and co-developed its Sustainability, Education, Empowerment, and Development ($EED) model.

Christina Bria is Delegata’s Operations Director and brings more than 13 years of experience in corporate operations and human resources. She oversees contracts, accounting, recruiting, people operations, technology, and facilities management. Christina holds SPHR and PHRca certifications from HRCI and is known for her collaborative approach to supporting teams and community-focused initiatives.

Sheri Hofer is a longtime community supporter and the creator of Mysherings, a handmade jewelry initiative that donates 100% of proceeds to local nonprofits. Before retiring, she spent 35 years in public service, including leadership roles as an IT Chief with the California Department of Justice and Executive Information Security Officer for CalPERS. She continues to support local communities through philanthropy and Closing the Gap’s mission.

Kais Menoufy is the founder of Closing the Gap and Delegata, a Sacramento-based consulting firm established in 2000. He also founded SKAKS Technology and has held senior leadership roles in global technology and business operations.

Kais is deeply committed to community service and has pioneered initiatives including Building Bridges, Songs of Hope, Youth for a Better Understanding, and Closing the Gap. His work reflects a long-standing commitment to education, diversity, collaboration, and creating positive change in the community.