Mariana Castanon Arellano is the Family Engagement Coordinator, where she supports parent education and growth programs in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. She believes empowering and supporting parents is essential to a student’s success. As a daughter, she is inspired by the motivation and dedication of parents in the Latino community.

Mariana is passionate about advancing educational and economic initiatives in her community. These causes are especially close to her heart as a first-generation college graduate, the first in her family to earn a degree, and as someone raised by entrepreneurs.

She earned her degree in Business Marketing with a minor in Chicana and Chicano Studies from San José State University. As a student, she worked as a College Success Advisor for the TRIO Program at James Lick High School, where she supported more than 80 students with college readiness, career exploration, and application guidance. Through this role, Mariana witnessed firsthand the challenges students and families face navigating the college process. As Family Engagement Coordinator, she is excited to connect families with resources that help them feel confident in their STEM educational journey.

Outside of work, Mariana enjoys spending time with her two cats, family, and friends. She loves reading, hiking, and exploring new food and coffee spots.