BtB Team

Breaking Through Bias is the brain child of Leo Melena, Sandy Kahn, and Angela Liewen. While in graduate school they formed a synergistic alliance that collectively integrated their passion as educators. Their vision is to shatter the barriers imposed by bias and create new opportunities for emerging leaders and non-traditional students.

Leo is the main spokesman for Breaking Through Bias and focuses on theoretical content. Leo earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego. Leo is currently employed at California State University San Marcos in the College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences Dean’s Office as the College Student Services Professional. He is currently attending graduate school at San Diego State University, attaining his Master of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership. Leo lives in Escondido, CA with his wife and three-year-old son.

Sandy serves as the lead researcher for Breaking Through Bias. Sandy earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of California, San Diego, and is currently working on her Master of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership at San Diego State University. She also a manager in Data Systems and Reporting for the College of Education at San Diego State University. Sandy has two grown daughters and lives in La Mesa, CA with her husband, three fish, two dogs and a cat.

Angela is the lead technical developer and chief editor for Breaking Through Bias. Angela works at San Diego Mesa College in the Information Technology department. She is also active in shared governance and is the president of the Classified Senate. Angela earned her Bachelor of Science in Business – Information Systems from San Diego State University and is currently a masters candidate in Postsecondary Educational Leadership at San Diego State University. Angela has a teenage son and lives in Ramona, CA.