Team Members
SECO Staff Members
Steve Thao
Executive Director
Yee “Steve” Thao has extensive experience working and leading nonprofit organizations. His work entails social justice, environmental justice, youth development and health equity from Minnesota to California. He is passionate about working in the community and utilizing media as a powerful force for social and community change. He has lived in the Eastside for nearly 20 years and enjoys music, fishing and traveling as his pastimes. He has traveled to 62 countries and believes that sharing great ideas from around the world makes our communities better; and understanding and appreciating other cultures creates greater empathy and compassion for all individuals.
Suleiman
Community Organizer
Suleiman is SECO's community organizer. With over 20 years of experience, Suleiman is passionate about empowering individuals and fostering strong community bonds. Suleiman has a strong background in community advocacy and a heart for service, he is committed to making a positive impact on his community! He is a former ward 7 City Council Candidate, Metro State University Student and a father to four kids!
Board Members
Brandon Griffin
Vice President
Marvalyne Tripp
Board Member
Aisha Williams
Board Member
Therese Scherbel
Secretary
Zander Sellie
Board Member
Starr Pate
Board Member
Tom Dimond
Board Member
Shoua Yang
Board Member
John Slade
Board Member
Kudu Jaafaru
Board Member
Abdi Barkat
Board Member
Why do I serve the Board?
"I have been a resident of the Conway neighborhood since 1998. My husband and I raised our two daughters here. I have served on the Southeast Community Organization board for the past few years and I wanted to continue serving because I think it is important to be involved in the community. I'm involved in coordinating membership and engagement at the Conway community garden and serving on the environmental committee. I'm also a strong advocate in improving public information and communications so that our neighbors are aware of issues that affect Conway, Eastview, Battle Creek, and Highwood." Therese Scherbel