Board of Directors
New Board Member Spotlight
The Youth Center Proudly Welcomes New Board Member, Alexandra Hatakeyama
Meet Alexandra (Ally) Hatakeyama, a junior at Los Alamitos High School, known for her fervent advocacy for mental wellness and student leadership. As president of the Youth Center’s Leadership Council since 2021, she spearheads initiatives to enhance children’s well-being through comprehensive wellness programs. Ally’s commitment led to the establishment of Making Mindfulness Matter, a pioneering Wellness Center offering crucial mental health support and resources for youth and families. Her remarkable impact earned her the esteemed 2023 Crystal Heart Youth Award, recognizing her dedication to youth empowerment. At school, Ally founded and leads the Emerging Leaders club, fostering leadership development and providing a supportive space for students to thrive. Actively engaged in various clubs including the Asian Culture Club, California Scholarship Federation, and Model United Nations, Ally’s passion for psychology propels her towards a future career focused on transformative environments centered on mental wellness. Excited to further her impact, Ally eagerly anticipates her role on the Youth Center’s Board of Directors, where she aims to lead initiatives empowering young individuals and shaping meaningful experiences.
The Youth Center Proudly Welcomes New Board Member, Nichole (Nikki) Illingworth-Muller
Nichole (Nikki) Illingworth-Muller boasts over 15 years of leadership in the senior care industry, overseeing up to 500 employees. As the former owner and COO of a startup home health care company, she navigated it to success and its eventual sale in January 2016. Nikki, an RN, later transitioned to roles at ClearCare Online and held significant positions at ElderCare Companions and Sunrise Senior Living. A USAF Nurse veteran, Nikki is recognized for her contributions, holding various licenses and awards. She serves on the boards of Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce and Seal Beach Lions Club, earning Businessperson of the Year in 2022-2023. Personally, Nikki is the wife of Jonathan Muller, a stepmom, and an avid backpacker and spelunker with a passion for international travel and volunteering.
The Youth Center Proudly Welcomes New Board Member, Kristin DiMiceli
Hailing from Missouri, Kristin DiMiceli has been an integral part of Southern California since 1998. Armed with a BS degree from Missouri State University, she initially pursued a corporate career as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, gaining valuable marketing skills. In 2018, Kristin ventured into entrepreneurship as the founder of Garage Pilates in Los Alamitos. Her commitment to community growth is evident in her role as Co-President on the Board of Directors for the Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce, actively contributing to the expansion of local businesses. Residing in Seal Beach with her husband John, Kristin embraces the coastal lifestyle and finds joy in wellness, particularly Pilates. As the Owner of Garage Pilates Studio and a Certified Pilates Instructor, she brings her expertise to the Youth Center’s Board of Directors, reflecting her deep passion for guiding the youth through their crucial developmental years. Kristin eagerly anticipates a future marked by collaboration and growth, showcasing her commitment to nurturing the potential of the next generation.
The Youth Center Proudly Welcomes New Board Member, Steve Kul
Steve Kul grew up spending a lot of time at the Youth Center when he was living with his aunt and uncle on Oak Street. After graduating from LAHS, Steve moved to San Diego to pursue his education in Economics and Business Administration. He graduated from University of San Diego and started his own company, Konnect Resources, a Staffing and Workforce Management company in 2015.
Steve is happily married to Kicia and together they have a 9 (soon to be 10) year old little girl. They live in Yorba Linda. Steve enjoys golfing, attending sporting events and traveling. He is very excited about the opportunity to give back to The Youth Center.
The Youth Center Proudly Welcomes New Board Member, Ashley Luong
Born and raised in Reidsville, North Carolina, Ashley moved to Southern California 6 years ago from Charlotte, North Carolina in order to achieve her goals and seek new adventures. She graduated from the University of Wilmington at North Carolina and currently has two professions: a Realtor® and banker who has worked in the financial industry for over 14 years. Ashley is a newlywed and married to the love of her life and they have a fur baby who is their pride and joy. She enjoys working out, watching/ playing sports, traveling, volunteering and being with family and friends. Ashley has a huge heart and is extremely passionate about giving back and helping others which has been instilled in her upbringing as a child. She volunteers at the OC Rescue Mission and Urban Angels nonprofit organizations working as a kitchen volunteer and absolutely adores children and helping give them the tools they need to succeed.
Ashley is beyond honored and grateful to be on the Board of Directors for the Youth Center so that she can help make a difference and be an advocate for children.
The Youth Center Proudly Welcomes New Board Member, Monica Wissuchek
Born and raised in Southern California, Monica received her BA in Education and Music at University of San Diego and MA in Reading Instruction at UCSB. She has lived in Los Alamitos for the past twenty years with her husband D.J. Together they raised three wonderful children who now live at universities in three different states studying economics, engineering, and history/music. Monica loves reading, music, hiking and traveling.
Monica has worked in schools for over 20 years as a classroom teacher, music teacher, substitute, and reading specialist. She is currently a Home Hospital Instructor for the Los Alamitos Unified School District, working with students of all grade levels so that they may continue their studies while recovering from various health issues. Monica has a passion for all children and has volunteered to nurture and support their growth and development for many years. She has taken on many different roles in the Los Alamitos PTA, including acting as President, has led and developed children’s programs at St. Hedwig Church, was the LAHS Marching Band Booster President, and has been active with AYSO Soccer and Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops.
The work done by The Youth Center has a special place in Monica’s heart. Her daughter Elaine helped launch the annual Night Among the Starts event and her daughter Annette helped start the Reading R.A.S.C.A.L.S. program as their Girl Scout Gold Awards. Monica looks forward to continuing to work with The Youth Center “transforming children’s lives one family at a time through collaborative social, educational and recreational programs”.
The Youth Center Proudly Welcomes New Board Member, William Chiem
Born and raised in Southern California, William received his BA at UC, Riverside and loves to travel and cook. He and his incredible wife Kristly eloped in Queenstown, New Zealand and together they are raising an amazing two-year old son, Lincoln and two labs, Brodie and Carter.
William is the National Franchise Practice Leader at TriNet, developing product and HR solutions for Franchise Systems, serving Franchisors and multi-unit entities including, but not limited to: service brands, boutique health and fitness, beauty, mechanic and tire centers, mobile concepts, pet brands, quick service restaurants and grocery stores. As co-lead of the Asian Employee Resource Group at TriNet, his focus is on creating awareness of Asian culture throughout the company nationwide, instilling professional development and bolstering philanthropy.