KIPP SoCal gala co-hosts: KIPP SoCal’s Director of Talent Acquisition Eric Desobe (right) and KIPP Philosophers Academy 7th-grader Elektra Skannal (left)
On October 10, KIPP SoCal marked two decades of transformative impact with an unforgettable 20th Anniversary Gala at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles.
The evening honored philanthropists Martha and Bruce Karsh, longtime supporters of KIPP SoCal, for their unwavering commitment to advancing educational equity in Southern California.
The celebration started with a lively welcome reception featuring interactive moments with KIPP SoCal alumni and a musical performance by KIPP Scholar Academy Band Director Anthony Harvey. Guests had the chance to connect with former students, hear their success stories, and reflect on KIPP SoCal’s legacy of providing high-quality education since its inception in 2003.
Top left: KIPP Foundation CEO Shavar Jeffries and Martha & Bruce Karsh • Top right: KIPP Scholar Band Director Anthoney Harvey • Bottom right: Founder & Former KIPP SoCal CEO Marcia Aaron, KIPP SoCal CEO Angella Martinez, and KIPP SoCal Chief of Schools Amber Young Medina
As the night progressed, attendees gathered for a dinner and awards presentation. The event was co-hosted by Eric Desobe, KIPP SoCal’s Director of Talent Acquisition, alongside Elektra Skannal, a 7th-grade student from KIPP Philosophers Academy. Together, they led the program, highlighting KIPP SoCal’s journey from its humble beginnings with three middle schools to its current network of 20 high-performing elementary and middle schools, serving over 10,000 students.
KIPP SoCal CEO Angella Martinez and KIPP SoCal Board Chair Luis Rodriguez delivered heartfelt speeches, emphasizing the importance of educational equity and the organization's lasting impact on the community. The audience also enjoyed a special KIPP Sol Academy Mariachi performance, which added a vibrant cultural touch to the celebration.
Top left: KIPP SoCal Board Chair Luis Rodriguez • Top right: Emily Amador (center in white) alongside numerous KIPP SoCal alums • Bottom left: KIPP Sol Mariachi performance • Bottom right: Lawrence performance
Guests watched an inspiring video featuring Emily Amador, a proud alumna of KIPP Empower Academy and KIPP Academy of Opportunity, who expressed her deep gratitude for our KIPP Forward high school, college, and career counseling program.
Following dinner, the program culminated with a dessert reception and a high-energy performance by the critically acclaimed soul-pop band Lawrence. Guests danced the night away, celebrating KIPP SoCal's successes and looking ahead to our bright future.
Learn More About Our Two Decades of Impact
A Special Thank You to Our Lead Sponsors
Howards & Nancy Marks • Susan Brauneiss & Marc Gamsin • The Roberts Foundation • Diann Kim & John Frank • Laura & John Fisher • Eileen & Bob O’Leary • The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation • Oaktree • Brookfield