Ali Michael Cannon

Background

About Ali Michael Cannon

Throughout my career, I've been a bold and courageous leader fighting for the rights and dignity of youth including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students, making schools safe using equity based inclusion strategies that support youth, families and staff. My training model is infused with an anti-racist, feminist and compassionate lens, enabling adults and youth to have difficult conversations to overcome bias and stereotyping. For 30 years, I've been a champion for young people on the margins. I've advocated for homeless students, ensuring their right to an education free from barriers and discrimination. I've supported at-risk students enrolled in after school programs, collaborating with non-profit partners to facilitate academic success and enrichment opportunities. I am proud to have served as a regional leader in addressing injustices throughout my tenure in the field of education and public health, both at the school district and non-profit management level. Currently, as Wellness in Schools Program Liaison for the East County region of Contra Costa County, I support the mental health and wellness of all youth, supporting districts to identify students who are struggling while helping to de-stygmatize mental illness, offering supports and technical assistance through uplifting partnerships with Behavioral Health and community based organizations. As Student Outreach Coordinator for San Leandro Unified School District, I oversaw $1.5 million annually in government grants. I managed after school resources along with funding for homeless education and full service community schools' implementation. Prior to SLUSD, I spent 10 years in Environmental Education, helping multiple agencies improve their service to low-income youth of color who have not historically had access to the outdoors. Throughout my career, I have managed and written government and foundation grants. As part of that work, I have overseen and advised program budgets. Additionally, I have identified, planned, and strategized with program funding advisory bodies to build, maintain, and grow fiscal sustainability. As a facilitator and trainer, I have impacted multiple communities in the Bay Area and beyond with my strong collaboration, program management and strategic partnering skills. I look forward to working with your organization to uplift multiple communities and advocate for structural change.