CPP alumna named TOLA organizing fellow, working in the Bay Area

CPP alumna named TOLA organizing fellow, working in the Bay Area

A recent graduate of our department, Marla Castillo (’19), was recently named an Organizing Fellow with the Organizing and Leadership Academy (TOLA) based in Oakland, CA. The Organizing & Leadership Academy (TOLA) is a rigorous “hands-on” training program for individuals interested and motivated to pursue a career in organizing.

TOLA Fellows participate in classroom instruction, do significant reading and reflective writing, and are challenged by experienced organizers, community leaders and elected officials. Most importantly, Fellows work on real organizing projects developing the discipline and skills necessary to become effective organizers.

As a 2019 Tola Fellow, Marla’s personal goal is to be a helpful and supportive member of a community and organization, which values social justice and making sure people’s primary necessities are met. She hopes to apply what she learns in TOLA to becoming a leader, lawyer, and future Peace Corps or AmeriCorps member. Marla is first generation in her immediate family to graduate from a university. She identifies as Filipina and cares most about women’s rights, environmental justice, immigration/refugee rights, and criminal justice.

Congratulations to Marla on her fellowship!