Our Board Members
Dr. Lena Chao
Dr. Lena Chao is a Professor of Communication Studies at California State University, Los Angeles, with more than 30 years of academic and leadership experience. She has served as Interim Dean and Associate Dean in the College of Arts & Letters, and most recently as Interim Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies—one of the first colleges of its kind in the nation. Dr. Chao has also worked professionally as Media Director for the ACLU of Southern California and as Public Service Coordinator at KFWB Newsradio. A founding board member of the Media Action Network for Asian Americans (MANAA), her scholarship focuses on mass communication, identity, and equity, including her award-winning work on racism and representation in media. She brings deep expertise in communication, social justice, and public engagement.
Board Interim Chair
Dr. Kamran Afary
Dr. Kamran Afary is an Associate Professor of Communication Studies and a registered drama therapist. His work focuses on narrative, performance, and healing, particularly within justice-impacted populations. He has authored and edited numerous academic publications and provides trauma-informed training for mental health professionals. He also teaches within prison education programs, bringing both academic and applied expertise to the board.
Board Secretary
Whitney Wakimoto
Whitney Wakimoto is an artist and educator specializing in arts-in-corrections programming. She has worked extensively in California state prisons through organizations such as the Strindberg Laboratory, William James Association, and Red Ladder Theatre Company. Her work centers on rehabilitation through creative expression, and she brings a strong commitment to restorative practices and transformation.
Board Member
Stephanie Chapa
Drawing on over 15 years of financial leadership, Stephanie brings a strong track record in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial management—making her an invaluable asset in her role as Board Treasurer. She has deep expertise in GAAP accounting, financial statement analysis, and investor reporting, along with hands-on experience transforming finance functions in both private equity services and commercial banking environments. Known for her collaborative style and data-driven approach, Stephanie provides trusted oversight of fiscal strategy and governance. Her background includes building high-performing finance teams, leading process improvement initiatives, and advising executive leadership on complex financial decisions—all skills that she channels into her service at Fear for Breakfast. She holds a BA in Economics from the University of Chicago and an Accounting Certificate from UCLA. She is continuously deepening her expertise through executive education in accounting, fintech, AI, and lean process excellence.
Board Treasurer