Digital NEST’s success is underpinned by outstanding leadership at all levels of the organization, including our visionary board of directors. Today, we honor Dr. Jackie Cruz, Ed.D., whose visionary leadership as board president helped us soar to new heights, as she concludes her impactful term and passes the torch to Tony Nethercutt.
During her 6-year tenure on the board, Dr. Cruz, Vice President of Advancement at Hartnell College and Executive Director of the Hartnell College Foundation, led Digital NEST through remarkable growth and achievement. Under her leadership as board president, we celebrated our 10th anniversary, launched an ambitious new strategic plan, and executed our largest fundraising event. Her dedication and vision have significantly strengthened Digital NEST’s partnerships, expanded our reach, and set the stage for continued success.
“Serving as board president for Digital NEST has been an honor and a privilege,” said Dr. Cruz. “Together, we have built a community where young people are empowered to dream big, develop their talents, and take flight in their careers. I am confident that Tony Nethercutt’s leadership will continue to inspire growth and opportunity for our members and communities.”
Tony Nethercutt, a Santa Cruz County native with decades of executive experience in digital media, embodies our core values of opportunity, community, and economic justice. Tony’s deep roots in the region and unwavering commitment to giving back have made him a driving force at Digital NEST. As a longtime supporter, development committee leader, and hands-on volunteer, he has played a pivotal role in expanding our impact and cultivating a culture where young people can find their path and create their future.
“I am thrilled to step into the role of board president at such a pivotal time for Digital NEST,” said Tony Nethercutt. “Our mission is to ensure that every young person – no matter where they come from – has access to the skills, resources, and network they need to thrive. Building on Jackie’s incredible legacy, I look forward to working with our team and partners to create even more pathways for youth to achieve prosperity for themselves, their families, and their communities.”
As we look ahead, Digital NEST remains steadfast in our commitment to being a welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive space where youth from Watsonville, Salinas, Gilroy, Modesto, and Stockton can explore their passions, build professional and technical skills, and join a network that supports them for life. Our free, comprehensive programs create ripples of impact, bringing shared prosperity to youth, families, and entire communities. We are dedicated to this mission and will continue to work tirelessly towards its realization.
“I’m tremendously grateful to Jackie for her leadership, which has been instrumental in guiding Digital NEST through this time of growth and impact. Her vision and dedication helped us launch our most ambitious strategic plan and reach new heights with our 10th anniversary,” said Jacob Martinez, CEO and Founder of Digital NEST. “As we welcome Tony as our new Board President, I could not be more excited for the future. Tony’s deep commitment to our mission and his hands-on approach will ensure we continue to expand opportunities for youth in our communities. Together, we are building a brighter, more equitable future for the next generation of tech leaders.”
