New School Year, New Beginnings at SFA

New School Year, New Beginnings at SFA

As the 2025–2026 school year begins, we are excited to share three important updates: the formal appointment of our new Executive Director, new leaders joining our staff, and the return of our annual Gala. All represent the energy, growth, and momentum driving San Francisco Achievers forward.

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Welcoming Our New Executive Director

We are proud to announce that Danielle Adams, an Oakland native with over 17 years of educational leadership and nonprofit experience, has officially stepped into the role of Executive Director of San Francisco Achievers.

Danielle has been a steady presence for SFA, serving as Interim Executive Director during a period of transition. Now, as she takes the helm formally, she brings a deep commitment to advancing educational equity for African American young men in SFUSD.

In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Danielle is also a College Women’s Basketball Coach, a role through which she has supported over 1,000 student-athletes in reaching their goals. Her ability to connect education and sports underscores the idea that these two domains are not mutually exclusive but complementary, offering students holistic growth opportunities. She has played a pivotal role in helping young people balance athletic pursuits with academic and personal aspirations.

Danielle holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from San Jose State University and a Master’s in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University Irvine. Her vision, passion, and proven leadership will continue to guide SFA into its next chapter of growth and impact.

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Welcoming New Staff

This fall, we are thrilled to welcome two dynamic leaders whose talents and dedication will strengthen our mission of advancing educational equity for African American young men in SFUSD.

Kiani Shaw, Program Manager

Kiani is an educator, healer, poet, and youth development specialist from Bayview Hunters Point. With more than 15 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to culturally relevant practices that empower students in under-resourced communities. She holds a B.A. in English from CSU Fresno, an M.Ed. in Social Justice and Equity from San Francisco State, and is pursuing her EdD in Educational Leadership at Cal State East Bay.

“It only takes one person to take a stand, but it takes a community to make a change.” – Kiani Shaw

Daylon Hicks, High School Advisor

Daylon is a creative and community-focused leader committed to making an impact through education, mentorship, and storytelling. A graduate of Washington State University with a degree in Multimedia Journalism, Daylon also founded arabbitshole, a digital platform exploring creativity, culture, and storytelling. His work at SFA blends creativity with mentorship, supporting the growth and future of young African American men.

With Kiani and Daylon on board, our team is better equipped than ever to meet the needs of our scholars and inspire change in the community.

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Set Sail with Us: Changemakers Captain’s Dinner

Join us on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 5:00–10:00 PM at The Marker Hotel in San Francisco for an unforgettable evening on the open seas of change.

The Changemakers Captain’s Dinner is SFA’s premier fundraising event, charting a bold course toward equity and opportunity for African American young men in SFUSD. With a goal of raising $75,000, this gathering will feature:

• Stories of transformation from our scholars — the true navigators of tomorrow

• A lively casino night filled with treasures waiting to be discovered

• Dinner, entertainment, and community celebration as we sail together toward a more just future

Secure your spot on deck — your presence helps steer our mission forward.

🎟️ Tickets and sponsorship opportunities will be available soon! Stay tuned to climb aboard.

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Together for a Just Future

At SFA, every new year brings new possibilities. With Danielle officially at the helm, new leaders on board, and the Captain’s Dinner just ahead, we are reminded that it takes a community to chart a brighter future. Thank you for being part of ours.

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