Scott Hays has Masters’ Degrees in English Literature and Communication, and he teaches part-time at southern California colleges. Scott co-produced the PBS SoCal public affairs program Inside OC with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Rick Reiff. He also produced-hosted the radio-cable show OC Caravan for KX 93.5 FM and Cox Channel 3-TV. Over the course of his career, Scott has published roughly a dozen, mostly non-fiction books for major publishing companies such as Warner Books, Gotham, and Rodale Press, and he worked as an editor/writer for a number of publishing companies. He also served as executive producer of short documentaries for several non-profit organizations.

Manuel N. Gómez, Ph.D., served as Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs at University of California, Irvine from 1995 to 2010. He began his work as a counselor in the Educational Opportunity Program, was a program officer with the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education in Washington D.C., and he served as Interim Vice President for Educational Partnerships in the University of California Office of the President. He also served as a member of the Children First, Paul Merage Foundation, on the Board of Trustees for the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the Board of Governors for the Orange County Community Foundation. Currently he is an Advisory Committee member of the UC Berkeley Institute for the Study of Higher
Education.

Ty Woodson is an award-winning television producer, director, writer, and editor with over two decades of experience in the industry. Notably, he has produced hundreds of hours of content for PBS, including the regional broadcast “Sustaining US” in the Los Angeles DMA. He is currently in pre-production for the seventh season of “Everybody with Angela Williamson.” Ty’s extensive portfolio encompasses five-hour specials, a documentary on visionary Henry Segerstrom, and various online content, including webisodes and PBS SoCal Extras. As the Director/Producer at KLCS, he oversees all station productions and post-productions, collaborating with internal and external teams to shape the strategic vision for content production across multiple platforms. Beyond his role at PBS, Ty is a dedicated documentarian, capturing the impactful work of US doctors transforming the lives of children in developing nations.

Dan McKechnie is an Emmy-nominated editor and award-winning cinematographer. Dan began his professional career as a 6th grade school teacher in Irvine, California, where he was honored with the Climate Creator of the Year award and nominated for the National Teacher of the Year award. He has created award-winning videos since 1981 and teaches many young video and film professionals throughout the country on editing and cinematography techniques, when not producing videos for OC World.

Anthony Clegg is an Emmy Award-winning videographer and video editor who has produced countless programs for local public broadcasting. Earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Communication from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Anthony has spent his career passionately learning and expanding his skillset in the field of video production. He has traveled around the country in the production of various documentary projects centering on the excellence of educators and the work they perform in the lives of the Nation’s next generation.

Tony Perez is a recipient of the Telly and Golden Mike Awards and brings over 18 years of extensive experience as a videographer, editor, and director of photography in public broadcasting. Tony has served as a digital librarian, programming assistant, camera operator, technical director, and editor. He believes everyone possesses a distinctive narrative and aims to disseminate these stories to a broader audience.

Veronica Marquez is an accomplished Website Developer and Graphic Designer, who navigates between web and print design. Whether crafting polished websites, captivating posters, immersive social media campaigns, shaping unique brand identities, Veronica showcases creative finesse and versatility. Her commitment to innovation and creativity has earned her multiple prestigious awards, showcasing her dedication to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional results. Beyond her professional success, Veronica actively engages with nonprofits, leveraging her skills to contribute to meaningful causes and creating impactful digital solutions for organizations making a positive impact in the community.

Brianna Marcial is a social media specialist with a sharp sense for digital trends and creative storytelling. Whether she’s leading dynamic campaigns or creating engaging content that truly connects, Brianna knows how to grow online communities and enhance a brand’s presence. With a strong foundation in communications, she blends strategic messaging with captivating content that delivers real results. Her internship with the Orange County District Attorney’s office provided valuable public and media relations experience, while her pro bono work with Olive Crest, a nonprofit supporting child welfare, highlights her commitment to meaningful causes. All of this, achieved while balancing her studies and professional work, speaks to her passion and dedication.

Jasmine Gutierrez is a recent cum laude graduate from University of California (UC), Irvine, having earned her degree in Public Health Policy with an honors emphasis. Before graduating, she was inducted into three Greek honors societies, including Phi Beta Kappa – the nation’s most prestigious honor society. In her last year at UC Irvine, Jasmine became a fellow with OC World, gathering portfolios, conducting interviews, and creating content to publish on the OC World Media Club website. Post-graduation, Jasmine has joined OC World professionally to help with company research, social media, and growing OC World Media Club’s content creation. In Summer 2026, Jasmine will return to academia to pursue a hybrid Master’s of Public Health at Dartmouth College.