Meet Our Team

Ashley Panelli is an organizer, advocate, and champion for liberation and economic freedom. She is currently the Co-President & CEO of 9to5 and 9to5 Action Fund- a grassroots power-building organization that advances economic justice to achieve better living & working conditions for women and nonbinary people of color.

Ashley has a longstanding history with 9to5. Prior to her current role she was the VP of Strategy and Innovation, the Senior Political Director, and the Colorado Associate State Director for the organization. She started as an organizer on the Colorado paid leave campaign and went on to lead the Colorado FAMLI Coalition and the Colorado Families First Coalition to win a state-run paid family and medical leave program at the ballot in 2020.

Ashley began organizing with the Denver Democratic Socialists of America where she chaired the Socialist Feminist Committee and developed the anti-oppression framework that guides the organization’s mission. She currently sits on the Board of Directors for Family Values at Work, the Women Foundation of Colorado’s Women and Girls of Color Fund Advisory Council and the Steering Committee for the State Priorities Partnership with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

Ashley received her B.A. in psychology with a concentration in women’s and gender studies from Dickinson College. She is dedicated to advancing economic prosperity for women of color and their families and believes that the needs of people should be centered over profits, unconditionally.

Mica Whitfield is the Co-President and CEO of 9to5, National Association of Working Women where she leads the organization’s vision for economic justice for working women and non-binary people of color through worker justice, family and community sustainability, and power building. Mica began her work at 9to5 as the Georgia State Director, leading the chapter to landmark policy wins on paid leave and workplace retaliation for Georgia state employees.   

She brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership, policy advocacy, and programmatic solutions experience for women and families. She is the Director of Programs for Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia where she managed maternal health programs, grants, advocacy initiatives, and policy-level workgroups for the organization. She is the former Vice President and Advocacy Chair for Postpartum Support International-Georgia Chapter, where her advocacy enshrined Maternal Mental Health Day in the Georgia Code and secured $1.05 million to establish the State’s first Maternal Mental Health Telepsychiatry Line.

She has long focused on creating pathways for women’s health and economic well-being and believes liberation is grounded in racial, gender, and economic justice. Mica is a mother of two children, Justice and Joy, whose names reflect her hope for women and non-binary people of color.

Christina is a Hmong American daughter of refugees, a mother, and a labor organizer, with a passion for improving people’s lives through fighting for worker’s rights, civic engagement, and legislative advocacy. Grounded in her upbringing as a first-generation American raised in poverty, she believes in data-driven solutions to do the most good aimed at lifting the most vulnerable and marginalized communities out of injustice.

As the Executive State Director for 9to5 Wisconsin, building community through deep and meaningful relationships across the state is core to her personal mission. In addition to advancing equitable policies at the local and state levels, she believes everyone deserves to be heard and to live dignified lives no matter where they come from.

Cesiah is the Executive State Director for 9to5 Colorado, her background is in organizing mobile home communities and advocating for more renters’ rights at the local and state level. 9to5 Colorado has been a pioneer in leading for housing justice through community organizing and legislation for the past five years. Born in Morelos, Mexico, she moved to Colorado at a young age. Cesiah first became an advocate by helping to pass legislation that granted undocumented students in-state tuition in Colorado in 2013. Cesiah earned her degree in political science with a minor in women’s studies and is currently pursuing my MA in the New Direction Program at the University of Colorado Denver. Cesiah is the oldest of three and her mother is her greatest inspiration.

Jasmine Bowles is the new Executive State Director for 9to5 Georgia, where she will advocate for women of color through organizing, educating, and fighting for equitable legislation.

Jasmine is an Atlanta native. She is an alum of Emory University and The University of Miami. Jasmine began her career as a classroom teacher and has continued to sharpen her lens as an administrator, policy analyst, realtor, non-profit executive, and lobbyist. She also represents her hometown on the Clayton County Board of Education, which is Georgia’s 5th largest school district.

In addition to her local organizing efforts to end inequity, Ms. Bowles has coached hundreds of organizers, policy fellows, teachers, non-profit leaders, and school board members across the country. As a working woman of color and homegrown Georgian, Jasmine believes that her work is both a calling and a responsibility.

Michelle is joining 9to5 as a community organizer and activist from Atlanta, Georgia. Their experience in organizing was centered on fighting for genuine democracy in the Philippines and linking the cause to the struggles of Filipino migrants in the United States. They hold a Bachelor’s in Human Services from Kennesaw State University and a Master’s in Social Work from Georgia State University. In their free time, they like to hang out with friends and read.

Tiffany Garnace joined Georgia’s Chapter as their Communications Coordinator in the summer of 2023. Prior to her role in 9to5, she served in various roles that centered around advocacy and empowerment for BIPOC communities. In 2019, Tiffany was a City Year AmeriCorps member in Jacksonville, Florida as a Student Success Coach. During the pandemic, she moved back to Atlanta and organized with Asian American-led community organizations locally and nationally. During her time there, she focused on civic engagement, youth empowerment, and Stop Asian Hate initiatives. She took interest in the labor movement due to prior experiences and wanted to learn more about workplace protections and rights. She hopes to further the Georgia Chapter’s communication strategies through her position. Tiffany received a Bachelors of Arts in Anthropology and Bachelors of Science in Psychology from the University of Georgia in 2018. She was born in Orlando where her family immigrated to from the Philippines and has lived in Georgia for over 15 years. Currently, Tiffany lives in Atlanta, GA with her cat Bibingka. 

Amber joined 9to5 Georgia in 2023 to develop data strategy and lead database coordination. She believes in the importance of using data to make informed decisions. Amber is a creative and collaborative project manager with over ten years of experience in community partnerships, equity research, and strategy. Before joining 9to5, Amber worked as leader in partnerships and special projects. Amber has a BS in Psychology from Mercer University. She also holds a PhD. A Georgia native, Dr. Raines has proven successful in leading her community, which even led to her being named a “40 Under 40” leader in the Rural Leader Magazine in 2015. Amber’s passion for improving the lives of working women and families led her to 9to5, and she hopes it led you here too.

Frances Gillison is a Savannah, GA Native. She resides in Savannah with her 9-year-old daughter, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Savannah State University and has 7 plus years of being involved in the Domestic Violence Movement and Community Advocacy.

Ms. Gillison started as an intern at SAFE Shelter, Volunteered with Greendbrier, Advocated as a Prevention Specialist at Rape Crisis Center, and led as a Community Outreach Coordinator for SAFE Shelter. She is dedicated to serving overcomers and creating real change, she excels at connecting with community members, collaborating with service providers, implementing outreach plans, developing compelling presentations to community groups and her daughter Braelynn is her motivation.

Ms. Gillison believes that every day is an opportunity to learn something new, naturally, she is determined to exhaust those skills learned to provide resources and tools to help members of the community, she is a 2021 Step Up Savannah Neighborhood Leadership Graduate, a former Associate of 9to5 Georgia Community Justice Fellowship Program, a member of Toastmasters International, and a current member of Parent University.

One of her favorite quotes is “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” by Maya Angelou. While Frances is aware there are many matters in our community and one individual is typically faced with one or all, she is dedicated to serving others and uplifting her community.

Aaliyah has always been passionate about serving their community and paving a way for future generations to live in a more sustainable, harmonious society. After graduating with her AA in Political Science, they had the privilege of doing great work with various progressive organizations in Colorado. Shortly after Aaliyah finished their Data Fellowship during the 2022 Colorado General Election, she began their Data Coordinator position with 9to5. During this step in her journey, Aaliyah hopes to bridge the gap between data and organizing; not only to better support the community we serve- but also to reach more marginalized communities that are often overlooked.

Katie joined 9to5 Colorado in the spring of 2023 to develop campaign messaging and communications strategy. Originally from Abilene, Texas, Katie was raised to push back against injustice and be civically engaged in her community. Katie graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Communications and Journalism. After five years in local news, Katie decided to move from an objective position as a reporter to a communication management role in the immigrant rights movement for Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition (CIRC) and CIRC Action Fund. Now, she is stoked to fulfill the 9to5 mission!

Corey joins the 9to5 Georgia team as the Climate and Energy Justice Manager centering his work in the Southwest Georgia region and across the state. Corey has been organizing in grassroots capacities since 2017 often finding himself advocating issues of voting rights, racial, and economic justice. 

He seeks to achieve a goal of building a statewide environmental justice ecosystem that helps push public policies that are rooted in respect and justice for all people, free from any form of discrimination and bias. 

Corey is a graduate of LaGrange College ( B.A. Liberal Arts) and Albany State University (MPA, Public Policy).

Sonia is originally from Veracruz, Mexico but grew up in Colorado since she was 9 years old. She joined the 9to5 team as a community organizer in 2022 and is passionate about working with 9to5 because of their ability to help different communities and help empower people to speak up about injustices no matter their language, race, gender or even legal status. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with my kids and traveling. Most of all she loves seeing their faces glow up when they try new adventures.

Panhia was born in a refugee camp and immigrated to the United States in 2000.  Through her experiences, going through poverty and systemic oppression, Panhia is passionate about being the change she seeks in this world.  From this passion, she has completed multiple projects throughout the years in the non-profit sector to help give to those in need.  Along with these projects, she has advocated and hosted workshops for topics that open up conversations and instigate change she holds dear such as mental health, suicide prevention, and gender equality.  Panhia has also helped found, manage, and coordinate multiple Pro-Bono programs to give back to the community.   As Michelle Obama says it best: “success isn’t about how much money you make; it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.”  Panhia hopes to embody this and impact as many people’s lives as she can. 

For nearly two decades, Ashley’s work has focused on issues of Equal Pay, Racial Justice, Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice as well as issues facing the LGBTQ+ community in the South. Philanthropy, Fundraising, and Development are her passion. Ashley is committed to fostering healthy relationships between funders, underserved communities, and leaders in marginalized communities.

Ashley served as the Senior Associate of Reproductive Rights for State Innovation Exchange, the first Alabama State Director for the Human Rights Campaign, and the first LGBT Community Advocate for the Southern Poverty Law Center. Ashley has Business and Marketing degrees from Hinds College and attended Auburn University Montgomery for Sociology and Political Science. She holds a certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University.

Ashley co-founded the Mississippi Safe Schools Coalition in 2008 and served as the director for three years Ashley is also a board member for The Center for Civil and Human Rights LGBT Institute. She was named a New Civil Rights Leader: Emerging Voice in the 21st Century by the L.A. Times. She’s a Mississippi native currently residing in Atlanta, GA.

Kwasi is a community and political organizer who was born and raised in Aurora, CO who uses They/Him pronouns. Kwasi has a deep commitment to simplifying public policy and other political languages to increase accessibility to holding those in power accountable. Economic justice is a big part of increasing equity and Kwasi is excited to organize towards that goal!

Erin is joining the 9to5 Georgia team as the childcare organizer in Savannah. She first became involved in organizing as an intern with the New York based organization, For the Many (formerly Nobody Leaves Mid-Hudson). As a fundraising team leader, Erin worked to move money and build power with working people in the Hudson Valley to fight for healthcare and housing for all and immigration, racial, and economic justice. Prior to joining 9to5, Erin worked as campus organizer at schools in Florida, Virginia, and Massachusetts to help engage new voters and make higher education more affordable. She holds a B.S in Geography from Vassar College and is interested in the ways social movements use and produce space to enact change.  Erin was raised as a Quaker in New York and now lives with friends and their many much loved animals in Savannah.

Amanda joined 9to5 in September 2021 as Communications & Digital Coordinator. Before joining 9to5 she worked for 8 years preventing and responding to sexual assault, abuse, and harassment for state and national organizations. She loves creating digital communications including social media, podcasts, video, and GIFs. She holds a BA in Public Relations and Advertising from Point Park University. 

Phoebe has over 20 years of experience in executive administrative support.  She joined the 9to5 staff in 2021 and currently serves in the role as Executive Assistant to the Executive Director.

She also supports the Chief of Staff, and the Payroll and HR Departments when needed.

Prior to joining 9to5, she worked in the small business sector in various administrative roles.

Phoebe is a self-proclaimed Google-fu, information junkie and foodie.

Sam joined the Colorado team in early 2021 as Communications Coordinator where she manages digital comms projects for the chapter. Prior to 9to5, she graduated with a BA in Journalism and Media Communication with a minor in Women’s Studies from Colorado State University where she gained experience creating content that inspires social change. In her communications work, she aims to bring awareness and help start conversations about social injustice through digital channels. In her free time she enjoys spending time outdoors, contemporary dance, and watching documentaries.

Carolyn has over ten years of experience in financial planning, analysis and accounting.  Prior to joining 9to5, she worked with several social impact organizations in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors.  Her areas of expertise include project management, operations, and streamlining processes.  Carolyn holds a Master in Business Administration from Marquette University, where she was a Trinity Fellow, a program fostering social change with a focus on social and economic justice.

Jenn Rivera is a communications & nonprofit professional and macro social worker. Before joining 9to5 as their resident communications and digital go-to, Jenn worked in philanthropy helping manage programs and relationships with community based Indigenous organizations across the US. Jenn is passionate about resourcing and sustaining our movement towards collective liberation and sees themselves as part of the larger ecosystem of systems weavers and bridge builders. She majored in sociology and Latin American studies during her undergraduate studies and holds a Masters degree in Social Work. Outside of work, Jenn enjoys gardening, dabbling in ceramics, and spending time with her family in her home state of Virginia. 

Shanda is a firm believer that someone else’s opinion does not define you or what you can accomplish in life, if you are willing to fight. A graduate of Winston-Salem State University with a degree in Political Science, Shanda was a vanguard for grassroots organizing and politics. Collegiate activism lead to campaign work for city council elections in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Shanda seeks to leave the world a better place, whether by given a voice to the voiceless, or redeeming social, political, and economic conditions that keep people oppressed.

LaToya is passionate about closing the gender pay gap, and believes that women should have access to affordable, quality healthcare regardless of their citizenship and socio-economic status. She enjoys educating people about organ donation, voter registration, suicide prevention, and women’s health concerns. A native of Savannah, LaToya has a BA in Liberal Arts and an MA in Adult Education and Community Leadership from Armstrong State University. LaToya has worked for the State of Georgia for the past eleven years, most recently providing enrollment assistance to parents of uninsured youth.

Allison is a new(ish) Atlantan, transplanted from her hometown of Memphis where she did statewide advocacy, grassroots organizing, training development and facilitation for more than 15 years. She was most recently the State Director of a sexual health and reproductive freedom coalition in Tennessee aiming to realize bodily autonomy and full access to comprehensive healthcare for all. Allison has also developed popular education and training programs to support the liberatory movements and communities that we need and deserve, with a special focus on supporting the continual work of White people (herself included!) in undoing habits of white supremacy towards being active and helpful co-conspirators in movement work. She’s also a mother of 3 humans and 1 dog and is partnered with a wonderful fellow lifelong seeker of justice.

Edith became involved in the Justice for Janitors movement in 2016 with our ally SEIU marching downtown alongside hundreds of other janitors like herself fighting for their rights. She began to realize that this was where she belonged, with her community fighting together for a better future that included minority and racial justice. Now she is a proud Chapter Organizer with 9to5 that holds the same values that she is dedicated to fighting together with our communities. As a DACA recipient since the age of 18 and born in Durango Mexico, she knows too well what it is like to fight and push for better opportunities. She has gone through many obstacles but none that she has not been able to overcome. Excited to begin this journey with 9to5 has been one of the greatest opportunities she has come across, not only to work with her own community but to push others to fight alongside 9to5 as well!

Jessica Ramos joined the 9to5 team in the fall of 2020. She joined as an Organizing and Legal Fellow and is primarily assisting with the Eviction Legal Defense program. Previously, Jessica has worked with Mijente, Towards Justice, and Colorado Coalition for the Homeless. She is passionate about creating change for working women and addressing issues rooted in systemic racism that influence people’s quality of life. She is a 2020 first-generation graduate from Colorado College. She grew up in Oklahoma and her family hails from Mexico.

Kaitlin Altone is a Senior Organizer in the Colorado Chapter of 9to5 The National Association of Working Women. Kaitlin joined the 9to5 team in 2019 working to pass Paid Family and Medical Leave. She now chairs the FAMLI Implementation Coalition and leads 9to5 Colorado’s Worker Justice program. Kaitlin earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University at Albany and her Master of Social Work, concentrating in Policy Practice and Organizational Leadership, from the University of Denver. Prior to joining 9to5, she got her start in community organizing through issue-based canvassing and local election campaigns. Kaitlin also has a background in providing mental health services to children with trauma and is an alum of Americorps NCCC FEMA Corps. Commitment to anti-oppression and social justice drives her work. Originally from Upstate New York, Kaitlin now lives in Denver with her partner.

LUZ GALICIA. is a single mother of two daughters Katherine and Diana, both already graduated from college. She also just became a grandmother to Dimitri two years ago. Luz was a fierce community leader in 9to5’s housing campaign to stop the eviction of Denver Meadows Mobile Home Park Community where she was a resident. She helped to lead the fight against all odds to stop the rezoning of her community and collectively purchase the park. Luz brings a wealth of lived and professional experience, having earned her journalism degree in Mexico and working in the hospitality business for over 26 years. Luz is currently working in collaboration with the City of Boulder and 9to5 at different mobile home communities in Boulder to engage with the community, especially underrepresented communities. Luz is also continually educating residents on the new legislation passed the last couple years. She has a passion for helping the communities that need it most in different ways, including informing, educating, and empowering leaders and residents and collaborating with other organizations and with representatives of the city as well as city councilors in benefit of the communities. Luz is currently providing training to empower residents to voice their concerns and motivate residents to actively participate and get involved in new legislation and training.

Krishna Inmula joined the 9to5 team in October 2020, and is currently the National Data Coordinator. Before joining the National team, Krishna worked as the Georgia chapter’s Communications & Data Coordinator, where she managed the chapter’s digital communications, design projects, and data. Before her time at 9to5, she worked with Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia to cement the nonprofit as a leading voice for improving maternal & infant health in Georgia, first as an AmeriCorps VISTA member and then as a contract communications & marketing consultant. Krishna’s prior professional experience ranges from marketing and design to data management to indie music PR and radio promotions. She holds a BBA in Management Information Systems and a BS in Psychology from the University of Georgia.

Jewel Howard has been active in civic engagement since 2015. She has headed several voter registration campaigns and served as Co-director of the Voter Registration program for 2020. In addition to her work in civic engagement, Jewel is an 8 time Emmy-nominated producer, a spoken word artist, and podcast host. Jewel is a graduate of Roosevelt University with a B.S. in Business Administration.

Yaneth received her bachelor’s degree in Management Accounting from Alverno College on May 2005. She has focused for 13 years on the organization financial management, auditing and accounting services. Oversees benefits processing and supervision of finance interns. When not at work she enjoys hiking and traveling!

Nasreen joined the staff in 2005 and currently leads 9to5’s  fundraising strategy and practice. Nasreen holds a master’s degree in nonprofit management from Georgia State University. Before joining 9to5, she worked with Amnesty International to win rights for incarcerated women, and researched living wage legislation nationwide with Good Jobs First in Washington DC. Nasreen is first-generation American, raised in the southern US by parents from Pakistan and Germany.