Carmen Chang

General Manager
Executive Leadership Division

Carmen Chang is the General Manager for EmpowerLA. She oversees the Department’s diverse team which supports Los Angeles’ 99 Neighborhood Councils and oversees a budget of nearly $4 million. She supports her staff of 35 with functions that include Neighborhood Council operations, administrative, communications, policy and government relations, civic leadership, and outreach & engagement. Carmen’s vision includes advocating for new and equitable ways to engage all Angelenos to EmpowerLA.

Carmen brings a background in community organizing and helping empower communities to be actively engaged in public and political processes while working to make systems more inclusive, with nearly two decades working on issue & political campaigns, international development, and serving in the federal government.

Previously, Carmen was the Director of Programs & Organizing at Golden State Opportunity, a statewide anti-poverty nonprofit where she led teams and executed a multi-million dollar budget to work with 40 organizations to provide education and outreach to low-income Californians to ensure access to economic opportunities, public benefits, and to advocate for systems change at the state and federal levels. Before Golden State Opportunity, she was the Organizing Director at the California Immigrant Policy Center, where she earned advocacy wins including full inclusion of the CA Earned Income Tax Credit for tax filers using Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers and health for all regardless of immigration status. She has also served Angelenos as the Vice President of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument Authority Commissioners and the Commission on Community & Family Services.

Carmen worked on presidential, congressional, and local campaigns from 2008-2020 in Virginia, Nebraska, and Los Angeles. In Washington DC, Carmen served in the Obama Administration at Peace Corps HQ and the U.S. Development Finance Corporation. Carmen is also a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Cameroon).

Carmen holds a Masters of Public Administration from George Mason University and B.A. in Political Science & Global Studies from UCLA (Go Bruins!). She loves supporting the Lakers and Dodgers, exploring both fancy & street food in LA, and world travel with her husband and two littles.

Armando Ruiz (he/him)

armando.ruiz@lacity.org
Managing Director, Administrative Services
Executive Leadership Division

Armando Ruiz (he/him) is the Managing Director of Administrative Services at EmpowerLA. As the Managing Director of the Administrative Services Division, Armando oversees staff that are focused on supporting the Executive Office, customer service, budget, accounting, payroll, human resources and investigations, IT and systems, facilities and records management including PRA requests, Neighborhood Council administrative support services, contract development and implementation, and dispute resolution investigations. He specializes in City and department administrative practices and procedures, management and leadership principles, and implementation of creative and innovative solutions to workplace problems.

Armando started his career with the City of Los Angeles as a part-time worker with LACERS answering phones, attending to clients, and entering data into the City retirement system database. He developed and honed his administrative skills and abilities working for the Housing Department for over 10 years in the Code Enforcement and Compliance Divisions where he handled a multitude of assignments including billing projects, ordinance implementation, project management, supervision of clerical teams, budgeting, and facility management.

Armando graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with his bachelor’s degree. Armando is an avid book, audiobook, TV, and movie fan. He enjoys the occasional round of golf with his son, and shopping with his wife and daughter.

Thomas Soong

thomas.soong@lacity.org
Director, Government and Policy Relations
Government and Policy Relations Division

Tom is currently the Director of Government and Policy Relations for EmpowerLA. He and his colleagues stand behind the mission to make the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment, America’s largest and most innovative initiative in Civic Engagement and Community Based Government. Love of community and the Lakers drive Tom, as evidenced by his 25 years of service to EmpowerLA. He likes it when people from diverse backgrounds gather together, exchange ideas, and develop practical but powerful plans to better their community. These topics are better discussed around food of course!

Prior to joining EmpowerLA, Tom was a Volunteer in Service to America (VISTA) Americorp member, a voter engagement specialist with the City of Los Angeles City Clerk, and a field deputy for a Councilman in the City of Los Angeles. Currently, he is also on a team with the Fellowship Monrovia’s Center for Racial Reconciliation that tackles the difficult conversations of race and reconciliation on individual and systemic levels.

Tom earned his B.A. in Sociology with a Specialization in Education from the University of California, Los Angeles and his M.A. in Executive Masters in Leadership from the University of Southern California. He and his wife are parents to three pugs.

Vanessa Serrano

vanessa.serrano@lacity.org
Director, Field Operations
Executive Leadership Division

Vanessa Serrano is the Director of Field Operations for EmpowerLA, which supports Los Angeles’ 99 Neighborhood Councils in strengthening civic participation and ensuring government remains responsive to local needs. Since joining EmpowerLA in 2017, she has held key leadership roles, including Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate, Director of Civic Leadership, and Interim General Manager. In her current role, she supports the Department General Manager in overseeing Neighborhood Council field operations, coordinating programs, and preparing reports and presentations for City Council and its committees. Vanessa’s passion for civic engagement began even earlier as a board member of the Pacoima Neighborhood Council, where she served as Secretary, Vice President, and President.

With over a decade of experience in the Neighborhood Council system, Vanessa is dedicated to empowering communities and championing civic participation. She believes in the power of representation and that government works best when all voices are heard. Her expertise extends beyond government engagement. As a Program Department Analyst at AbilityFirst, Vanessa worked alongside leadership and the Board of Directors to enhance policy training, manage crisis incident data, and lead risk management initiatives. Previously, as a Case Manager, she developed community-based volunteer programs to help clients build job skills, and contributed to strategic planning efforts. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Specialized Services Case Worker at Maximus, supporting individuals facing domestic violence, mental health challenges, and substance abuse in overcoming employment barriers.

Vanessa holds a Master’s in Public Administration from California State University, Northridge, and a Bachelor’s in Political Science with a concentration in Leadership and Women’s Studies from Mount St. Mary’s University.

Responsibilities and Assignments:

Atziri will lead the division that is charged with providing neighborhood councils with meaningful training to develop their skills and abilities to engage in deliberate governance, civil discourse, and serve their communities through their neighborhood council.

Personal Message/Interesting Fact:

Gibson Nyambura

gibson.nyambura@lacity.org
Director, Innovation
Innovation Division

Gibson Mwangi Nyambura currently serves as the Director of Innovation for EmpowerLA, where he is responsible for identifying creative and innovative strategies to help Neighborhood Council Board Members leverage technology and data to enhance civic engagement within their communities. With over seven years of dedicated service to EmpowerLA, Gibson has consistently provided direct support to Neighborhood Councils, fostering stronger connections and more effective community participation.

He holds a master’s degree in Finance from Pepperdine University and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from California State University, Northridge. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gibson is an enthusiastic sports fan, passionately supporting the Los Angeles Clippers, LAFC, and Angel City FC. He also has a deep appreciation for mechanical and vintage watches and hopes to continue growing his collection in the years to come.

Gibson is also deeply committed to civic engagement through his love for volunteering in elections, contributing his time and expertise to support democratic processes and community participation.

Marilú Guevara (she/her)

marilu.guevara@lacity.org
Director, Awareness & Engagement
Awareness & Engagement Division

Marilú Guevara leads the Awareness & Engagement Division at EmpowerLA, where she connects communities across Los Angeles to the Neighborhood Council system. She fosters inclusive civic involvement through grassroots public engagement programs, strategic community partnerships, and awareness campaigns, and advances civic participation in Neighborhood Council Elections. As the Department’s Youth and Language Accessibility Liaison, Marilú is committed to ensuring equitable access to local government for all Angelenos.

Before joining EmpowerLA, Marilú served as Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of Greater Los Angeles, where she advocated for civic education and voter empowerment. She currently serves on the Cornucopia Board of Directors and the League of Women Voters of California Nominating Committee, and mentors high school students through College Bound.

Marilú holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Irvine, and a Master of Arts from California State University, Long Beach, both in Political Science.

Wendy Edison

wendy.edison@lacity.org
Systems Manager
Systems Division

Wendy works on many functions, including policy setting procedures, renewing, maintaining and requesting new licenses, maintaining the department’s website and supervising staff that works on system dashboards and assisting with Procedural Manuals. She sets up agenda meetings and follows through to make sure each goal and team work is achieved.

Wendy was part of the Financial Management System (FMS) 2.0 Project with the General Services Department as a City-Wide Trainer and Security Coordinator.

She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Information Systems from California State University of Long Beach.

Erick Muñoz

erick.munoz@lacity.org
Commission Executive Assistant II
Commission & Office Support Division

Erick Muñoz is the Commission Executive Assistant II at EmpowerLA. His primary role is to support the Board of Neighborhood Commissioners (BONC) before, during, and after commission and ad hoc meetings, as well as BONC events. Erick also provides technical, administrative, and informational assistance to all EmpowerLA divisions. He specializes in event planning and management, database maintenance, and data visualization. Additionally, Erick supervises the EmpowerLA Front Desk Team on regular duties and special projects.

Prior to his role at EmpowerLA, Erick worked as a Secretary for the Los Angeles Police Department’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Group where he supported a wide range of projects promoting DEI in the workplace.

Erick loves learning new things, no matter what the subject is.

Henry Lo

henry.lo@lacity.org
Personnel Services Manager
Personnel Services Division

Henry Lo manages EmpowerLA’s Personnel Services Division, which handles recruitment and hiring, employee development, workplace culture, conflict resolution, and policy compliance. The most rewarding part of working in personnel is collaborating with outstanding staff to foster a thriving workplace.

Henry’s dedication to civil service began with Los Angeles County’s Department of Public Social Services, where he assisted community members access essential resources such as food, shelter, and medical benefits. He then transitioned to the City of Los Angeles, working in the Personnel Background Investigation Division conducting comprehensive background checks for public safety roles. Now at EmpowerLA, Henry has had the opportunity to work with exceptional staff, community stakeholders, and public leaders.

One of Henry’s most memorable moments at EmpowerLA was during a workshop at the Congress of Neighborhoods when a board member said, “Democracy is when a group of people tackle a problem together, not each other.” He finds this quote to be a great reminder of how much we can accomplish when we listen, support, and work with one another.

Responsibilities and Assignments:

Personal Message/Interesting Fact:

Man-Qin He

manqin.he@lacity.org
Senior Accountant I
Accounting Division

Man-Qin He serves as EmpowerLA’s Senior Accountant I. In her role, she directs, supervises, and manages accounting staff while overseeing EmpowerLA’s full range of accounting functions, including general accounting, payroll, and accounts payable. Man-Qin consults with various City Departments on budget and payment matters and collaborates with the Office of the City Administrative Officer for budget allocation, expenditure tracking, and financial reporting. Additionally, she estimates and projects expenditures while preparing various accounting statements and financial reports, and other funding-related documents.

Man-Qin brings nearly 20 years of experience to EmpowerLA, having worked previously for the Los Angeles Police Department and Office of Finance. Prior to her work with the City of Los Angeles, Man-Qin served as the Accounting Manager at Zim Israel Navigation Co., Ltd., overseeing accounts receivable for four branches and preparing financial reports, including income statements and cash flow statements.

Man-Qin received her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, and her pre-master’s education in accounting from California State University, Los Angeles. In her free time, Man-Qin enjoys drawing and stamp collecting.

Cecilia Elmange

cecilia.emange@lacity.org
Accounting Clerk
Accounting Division

As the Accounting Clerk for the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment, Cecilia Elmange provides support to the accounting team by processing receipts and invoices for all departments. She collaborates closely with Neighborhood Councils, vendors, and City partners to ensure timely payments and deliveries. Additionally, Cecilia plays a vital role in processing staff payroll and maintaining accurate timekeeping records.

Cecilia started her career with the City of Los Angeles working at LACERS. Her tasks include processing quarterly retiree reimbursements, attending to phone calls and mailing health benefit packets.

Cecilia obtained her Associate of Arts degree from Fullerton College. She has a current interest in the arts, and enjoys reading, painting, museums, and attending live events.

Ava Marinelli (she/her)

ava.marinelli@lacity.org
Public Information Officer
Awareness & Engagement Division

Ava Marinelli (she/her) serves as EmpowerLA’s Public Information Officer. As Public Information Officer, Ava oversees and manages internal and external communications for the Department. She develops and executes effective communications and marketing campaigns and strategies in partnership with other Department leaders and City partners to increase Angelenos’ civic participation and make the government more responsive to local needs.

Ava’s career has always been rooted in public and community service. She first served as an early elementary special education teacher in Los Angeles Unified Public Schools, where she was also elected to represent her school site in United Teachers of Los Angeles’ House of Representatives. She continued her community-driven organizing and advocacy work as a field and communications staffer on progressive presidential, state, and local campaigns during the 2020 and 2022 elections. Additionally, Ava has worked in the nonprofit sector, supporting college and career readiness opportunities for California’s young people at the Linked Learning Alliance as Communications Manager. She also served on the Mid City West Neighborhood Council prior to joining the EmpowerLA staff.

Ava graduated summa cum laude from Boston University with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and minor in education. She also graduated summa cum laude from Loyola Marymount University with a master’s degree in education policy. She proudly hails from the East Coast, and is an avid home chef and baker, community organizer, and public transportation rider. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and rescue dog, Bruce.

Dr. Vincent Autiero

vincent.autiero@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Innovation Division

Dr. Vincent Autiero is a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) at EmpowerLA. He currently supports Encino, North Hills East, Palms, Sylmar, Venice, Westchester Playa, Westwood, and Wilmington Neighborhood Council. In this role his responsibilities are to support Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Vincent also provides outreach and engagement to institutions of higher education throughout Los Angles and provides an overview of the Neighborhood Council system, particularly to those majoring in the fields of Political Science, Public Policy & Public Administration.

Prior to joining the department, Vincent also served for over five years as a board member for the Mid City West Neighborhood Council as well as a member of the Budget Advocates. His prior work experience includes areas in higher education and consulting.

Vincent obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Master of Arts in Education and his Doctorate in Public Policy.

Lorenzo Briceno

lorenzo.briceno@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Awareness & Engagement Division

Lorenzo Briceno is a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) with EmpowerLA. He is responsible for supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Lorenzo supports Central Alameda, Harbor Gateway South, LA-32, Northridge South, Rampart Village, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, and Sun Valley Area Neighborhood Councils.

Lorenzo joined EmpowerLA with 10 years of legislative experience with the Los Angeles City Council. He previously worked as Assistant Chief of Staff to Councilmember Bernard C. Parks. Lorenzo’s management experience leading a political office’s legislative team brings great value to EmpowerLA. He holds a strong background and understanding of local government processes and understands the council and committee process. He brings his insights into EmpowerLA and has a desire for increasing civic engagement, while building strategic partnerships with stakeholders, and advocacy groups to further empower citizens of Los Angeles.

Prabhjot Chamber

prabhjot.chamber@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Civic Leadership Division

Prabhjot Chamber is a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) tasked with supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Currently, Prabhjot supports West Hills, Woodland Hills- Warner Center, Canoga Park, Tarzana, Greater Valley Glen, Mar Vista, Del Rey and Arts District – Little Tokyo Neighborhood Councils. She leads EmpowerLA’s Homelessness Liaisons initiative.

Previously, Prabhjot worked in the nonprofit sector promoting tobacco control and prevention policy campaigning, and in the private sector in healthcare consulting.

Prabhjot attended the University of California, Riverside and received her bachelors’ degree in political science and master’s degree in public policy. She enjoys cooking different cuisines, playing volleyball and I love all animals, especially dogs.

John Darnell

John.darnell@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate & Chief Resilience Officer
Innovation Division

John Darnell is a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) with EmpowerLA. He is responsible for supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. John supports Mid City West, Wilshire Center-Koreatown, Mission Hills, North Hills West, West LA Sawtelle, Central San Pedro, Highland Park, and Northridge West Neighborhood Councils. He also works with the Budget Advocates and collaborates with them to plan for Budget Day every year, and is the Chief Resilience Officer for the Department.

John has been with the City of Los Angeles since July 2009. He started his City career working for Councilmember Paul Koretz as a Field Deputy and District Director. He joined EmpowerLA in April 2017 as a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate and Chief Resilience Officer.

John earned his BA in political science, and a minor in urban studies and planning from California State University, Northridge. He is passionate about serving people.

Helena Doub

helena.doub@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Awareness & Engagement Division

Helena Doub is a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) at EmpowerLA. In her role, she supports Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing strategies that empower board members and engage the community. Her Neighborhood Councils include Echo Park, Glassell Park, Harbor Gateway North, Hollywood United, Noho, North Hollywood Northeast, Silver Lake, and Westside. As a former Neighborhood Council Board Member, she understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities of community leadership and is passionate about amplifying residents’ voices in local government.

Helena also leads the Department’s Community-Based Organization (CBO) initiative, strengthening connections between nonprofits, direct service clients, Neighborhood Councils, and broader City institutions. With a Master of Social Work (MSW), she applies a social work lens to macro-level systems, focusing on partnerships that enhance representation and equity in local government.

Her multidisciplinary background spans the arts, tech, nonprofits, and restorative justice (to name a few), equipping her with the skills to help local leaders navigate city processes, foster civic engagement, and drive meaningful grassroots change. Believing the government should meet people where they are, Helena is committed to fostering trust and creating inclusive spaces for civic engagement. She works to bridge the gap between communities and City institutions, ensuring all voices are heard and valued.

Jose Galdamez

jose.galdamez@lacity.org 
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Innovation Division

Jose Galdamez is a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) with EmpowerLA. He is responsible for supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Jose currently supports Chatsworth, Downtown LA, East Hollywood, Historic Cultural North, Lincoln Heights, MacArthur Park, Panorama City, Sunland-Tujunga, and Westlake North Neighborhood Councils.

Jose is assigned to EmpowerLA’s Innovation Division and works on many projects, including EmpowerLA Virtual Governance, the tech team, and planning. Jose previously served as the Elections Coordinator for EmpowerLA, supporting the Neighborhood Council operations citywide. Additionally, Jose is a member of the Systems Team, which provided technical support for the Department in maintaining the website, and database.

Jose graduated from California State University, Northridge with a degree in Urban Studies and Planning.

Mario Hernandez

Mario.Hernandez@LACity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Civic Leadership Division

Mario Hernandez serves as a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) at EmpowerLA. In his role, he is responsible for supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Mario currently supports Arleta, Empowerment Congress Southwest, Granada Hills South, Harbor City, North Hollywood West, Valley Village, Westlake South, and Winnetka Neighborhood Councils. Prior to the pandemic, Mario led the Homelessness Liaisons and coordinated the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment’s first Homelessness Resource Fair.

Mario began his career with the City of Los Angeles at EmpowerLA in April 2014 where he processed the Neighborhood Council’s Demand Warrants and other vendor related issues. Soon after, Mario was promoted to Funding Supervisor, overseeing the four funding representatives and led the Neighborhood Council Funding Training. The Funding Division and Funding staff was transferred to the Office of the City Clerk in 2016, where Mario assisted in the initial development of the current funding portal and policies, but when given the opportunity to join the Field Division at EmpowerLA, he transitioned back in 2017.

During the pandemic, Mario worked as a Disaster Service Worker in Project Room Key. He was appointed as a Disaster Service Worker Liaison, assisting other City employees with their Disaster Service Worker assignments as well as assisting the Project Room Key service provider issues that would arise.

Mario believes in the idea of health is wealth, so he works to maintain a healthy diet and regularly hits the gym, primarily to be healthy.

Ok, one last personal note, Mario is a Believer and loves Jesus.

Daniel Johnson

daniel.d.johnson@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Innovation Division

Daniel Johnson serves as a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) at EmpowerLA. He is responsible for supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Daniel currently supports CANNDU, Coastal San Pedro, Empowerment Congress North, Empowerment Congress West, Hollywood Studio District, Lake Balboa, Porter Ranch, VOICES, and Zapata-King Neighborhood Councils.

Daniel is an alumnus of AmeriCorps, YouthBuild, Public Allies, Front Line Leaders Academy, Answering the Call, and the New Leaders Council’s Los Angeles Chapter. In 2016, he was elected to the Zapata-King Neighborhood Council where he served as President.

Daniel earned his Certificate in Community Planning and Economic Development from Los Angeles Trade Technical College in 2015.

Alfonso Manzo

alfonso.manzo@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Innovation Division

Alfonso Manzo serves as a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) at EmpowerLA. He is responsible for supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Alfonso currently supports Pacoima, Granada Hills North, Van Nuys, Foothill Trails District, Empowerment Congress Central, Park Mesa Heights, Watts, United Neighborhoods, and Pico Union Neighborhood Council.

Alfonso’s career in public service began with the City of Downey’s Parks and Recreation Department. His commitment to serving communities led him to roles at various government agencies, including Los Angeles County, the City of Santa Monica, and the City of West Hollywood. Prior to joining EmpowerLA, he served as a Field Representative for Congresswoman Linda Sánchez, working closely with constituents and local leaders to address key policy issues and community needs. In 2022, Alfonso joined EmpowerLA as an Election Assistant, and his dedication and expertise led to his promotion to NEA in 2023.

Born and raised in Downey, California, Alfonso attended Warren High School before pursuing higher education at California State University, Los Angeles, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice with a double minor in business and law. He later continued his academic journey at California State University, Long Beach, obtaining a Master of Policy & Public Administration with an emphasis in employee and employer relations. Alfonso is a dedicated public servant with a strong background in government and community engagement.

Octaviano Rios

octaviano.rios@lacity.org
Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate
Civic Leadership Division

Octaviano Rios serves as a Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate (NEA) at EmpowerLA. He is responsible for supporting Neighborhood Council Boards with capacity building, training, and organizing skills that empower board members and engage the community. Alfonso currently supports Bel Air-Beverly Crest, Empowerment Congress Southeast, Greater Wilshire, Northridge East, Northwest San Pedro, Olympic Park, South Central, and West Adams Neighborhood Council.

Mario Gomez

mario.r.gomez@lacity.org
Administrative Clerk
Commission & Office Support Division

Mario Gomez is an Administrative Clerk and key member of the Commission & Office Support Division at EmpowerLA. He provides guidance and support to Neighborhood Councils, ensuring they have the necessary training and information to engage effectively in their communities. Mario also assists with citywide programs and initiatives related to civic engagement and contributes to key projects including the annual Congress of Neighborhoods event.

Mario transitioned into public service through the Targeted Local Hire (TLH) program as part of a deliberate career change. Prior to his career in public service, Mario spent 13 years in the retail industry, where he developed strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills. His experience in retail helped him build a strong foundation in customer service, team coordination, and operational efficiency—skills that he now applies in his current role to support Neighborhood Councils and their communities.

Mario is an avid gamer and comic book fan. He enjoys exploring new video game worlds and diving into the latest comic book storylines.

Responsibilities and Assignments:

Personal Message/Interesting Fact:

Vartan Shatarevyan

vartan.shatarevyan@lacity.org
Administrative Clerk
Commission & Front Desk Division

Vartan Shatarevyan is an Administrative Clerk with EmpowerLA. He is dedicated to supporting community engagement and strengthening local governance by assisting Neighborhood Councils with administrative tasks. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for organization, Vartan ensures that public inquiries are handled efficiently and that community agendas are accurately processed and accessible. His organizational skills made him a perfect candidate to take on a Lead role as a Disaster Service Worker during the 2025 LA Fires.

Prior to joining EmpowerLA, Vartan worked in various roles that honed his expertise in administration, recruitment, and customer service. His experience includes serving as a recruiter and supply room manager for the U.S. Census Bureau, as well as working in verification and underwriting for Vital Imaging. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to efficiency and service, whether managing recruitment events, verifying critical information, or supporting teams in fast-paced environments.

Vartan earned his Bachelor of Science degree in business management from California State University, Northridge. When he’s not working, he enjoys watching the Los Angeles Dodgers, listening to lots of different music ranging from classical to reggae and everything in between, and reading one of the few hundred books he owns, particularly ones related to history, theology, and philosophy.

Responsibilities and Assignments:

Personal Message/Interesting Fact:

Kevin Argueta

kevin.argueta@lacity.org
Project Assistant
Procurement & Financial Analysis Division

Kevin Argueta is a Project Assistant in the Procurement & Financial Analysis Division at EmpowerLA. In his role, he assists with contracts, requests for proposals, and requests for quotes, ensuring compliance with procurement policies and procedures. Additionally, Kevin provides support to the budget team in financial planning and analysis and assists the accounting team with financial status reports and processing vendor invoices to maintain accurate financial records.

Kevin’s previous experience comes from Lakeshore Learning Materials LLC. where he served as an Administrative Assistant in the Bid Department analyzing high volumes of contracts and requests for proposals.

Kevin earned his Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality management from California State University, Long Beach. His hobbies include attending local concerts and supporting Los Angeles sports teams.

Joanna Alvarez

joanna.alvarez@lacity.org
Project Assistant
Personnel Services Division

Joanna Alvarez is a Project Assistant for EmpowerLA’s Personnel Services Division, specializing in Personnel Support. She provides resources and guidance on various matters such as understanding policies, surveys, employee benefits, accommodations, training and promotional opportunities. Additionally, she assists on project designing, supports the administrative team, and promotes wellness initiatives.

Joanna previously worked in healthcare services for nearly five years as a Patient Access Representative. She obtained her A.A. in Social & Behavioral Sciences from East Los Angeles Community College and her B.A. in Sociology from California State University, Los Angeles. One fun fact about Joanna is that her favorite holiday is Halloween.

Preston Colthirst-Peryer

preston.colthirst-peryer@lacity.org
Project Assistant
Procurement & Financial Analysis Division

Preston Colthirst-Peryer serves as a Project Assistant for EmpowerLA, where he plays a key role in supporting various functions across the Department. His responsibilities include managing translation and accessibility requests, handling Public Records Act inquiries, and processing invoice entries. In addition, Preston provides essential support to the accounting and budget team by assisting with report generation and data entry tasks. He also contributes to the successful planning and execution of department events, such as the annual Youth Conference, ensuring smooth operations and coordination.

Preston brings a diverse professional background to his role, having previously worked as a paralegal at a criminal law firm and as a project administrator in the theme park industry, where he honed his organizational and project management skills.

Preston holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and statistics from Northern Arizona University. Outside of work, he enjoys reading mystery novels and engaging in rock climbing adventures with friends.

Lena McElroy (she/her)

lena.mcelroy@lacity.org
Project Assistant
Personnel Services Division

Lena McElroy works as a Project Assistant in the Personnel Services Division. Lena supports the Neighborhood Council agenda posting process, provides customer service to stakeholders, conducts office maintenance, and other administrative tasks. Additionally, she supports various special projects and working groups across EmpowerLA.

Before working for the City of Los Angeles, Lena worked as a behavioral technician, where she supported youth with disabilities. Lena also has a passion for literature and writing, and she has served as an English tutor and worked in Black-owned and independent literary publishing houses, including Writers House, Pasadena Literary Alliance, Black & Bookish, and Cluster Chronicles.

Lena graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature/Writing from the University of California, San Diego in June 2020. In her free time, Lena enjoys creative writing, reading, practicing music and dance, and making visual art. She is also a Sergeant-At-Arms in Justicemasters.

Socorro Galindo (she/her)

socorro.galindo@lacity.org
Project Assistant
Civic Leadership Division

Socorro Galindo (she/her) is a Project Assistant at EmpowerLA in the Civic Leadership Division, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering community engagement, supporting training initiatives, and driving departmental innovation. She specializes in Neighborhood Council training support, outreach strategy, graphic design, advocacy, and youth programming. Socorro contributes significantly to key projects, including the Bus Bench/Shelter PSA campaign, Listen4Good Survey initiative, Youth Conference programming, and the Homelessness Liaison initiative, helping to bridge the gap between civic institutions and the communities they serve.

Before stepping into this role, Socorro worked at Quill & Arrow LLP, where she provided case management, legal assistance, and community advocacy. With a strong foundation in legal research, public service, and policy work, she has dedicated her career to empowering communities through education, representation, and systemic change.

Socorro holds a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies with a double minor in Chicanx Studies and Education from University of California, Berkeley. As a first-generation college graduate, she is passionate about increasing access to legal resources and leadership opportunities for underrepresented communities. Beyond her professional work, Socorro is an artist and photographer, using her creative talents to amplify stories of resilience, culture and community.

Kyle Stone

kyle.stone@lacity.org
Project Assistant
Systems Division

Kyle is a Project Assistant in the Systems Division at EmpowerLA. He supports both the Systems and Administrative Services Divisions by managing EmpowerLA’s customer relations database and website, overseeing departmental and Neighborhood Council email systems, and facilitating the operations of the department’s training systems. His work enhances operational efficiency and improves the services provided by the department. Kyle specializes in database management, website administration, and email system oversight. He actively participates in departmental technology discussions and contributes to process improvements by leveraging emerging technologies.

Kyle began his career in retail logistics at Steve Madden before transitioning to public service as an Elections Poll Worker in 2016. He advanced to Poll Manager, then Elections Assistant before serving as a Project Assistant. His experience includes IT administration, end-user support, and process optimization. He has also collaborated with the City of Los Angeles’ Information Technology Agency and other departments to implement digital tools and streamline communication systems.

In the pursuit of a Systems career path, Kyle earned a Bachelor of Science in information systems with a concentration in systems management, graduating Cum Laude from National University. Kyle is passionate about aviation and automobiles, enjoys video and tabletop gaming, and applies his 3D design skills to at-home manufacturing projects, including 3D printing and desktop CNC machining. When needing a break from desktop hobbies, Kyle enjoys weekend trips to the desert or mountains to enjoy offroad adventures in his purpose built truck with his girlfriend, Shelby, and golden retriever, Stetson.