Board of Directors

Sue Brown
Board Chair

Sue Brown has served on the board for many years and is currently serving as board chair. She lives in Wallace but originally hails from the East Coast and has been working in the insurance business for many years. About her decision to join the board, she says, “One day, a client asked me to accompany her to a board meeting; not long after I joined the board of Sierra Hope. I like giving back something to the community that's given me so much and the organization’s support of HIV/AIDS was also important. Today a lot of people think it’s no longer a problem and it’s true that today people live successfully with HIV.  But I lost a brother to AIDS in 1992 and so know well that it’s still an issue that needs our support.” In her free time Sue enjoys being a competitive fisherwoman and loves to camp and spend time with her kids.

Eric Hernandez
Vice Chair

Eric Hernandez is the Chief Operations Officer at the Population Health Learning Center, a new organization dedicated to catalyzing population health transformation across California. Holding a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Health Services Administration, Eric is deeply committed to building an equitable healthcare system that serves all Californians. Originally from Compton and now residing between Sacramento and Oakland with his partner, he began his impactful career as an HIV counselor, which ignited his passion for healthcare advocacy.
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When asked why he joined the board, Eric said, "I am deeply passionate about this work and am driven by a strong desire to give back to the community. The impactful stories from my former patients and the ongoing challenges they face have motivated me to contribute in any way I can. At Sierra Hope, which serves regions with limited resources, I hope to be an added resource that helps ensure everyone receives the care and support they deserve. It’s about uplifting and supporting our communities to end the stigma and ensure equitable access to essential services."

Matt Graham
Board Secretary/Treasurer

Matt is a retired teacher who spent much of his career as an education technology teacher and coordinator for Elementary schools. He was active in many aspects of school improvement and leadership. “After retiring from teaching, I wanted to donate time to charitable works. I serve on a team at our church and use my skills to support the church. I have an interest in food and housing issues; so, when I was invited to join the board, it was a good match for me. I knew at least two members of the board and heard about it at church; so, I had confidence it was a well-managed charity. I hope to learn more about housing issues and support the efforts of Sierra Hope to alleviate homelessness and hunger in our region.”

Matt is a graduate of U.C. Davis and St. Mary's College in Moraga. He earned his Master’s in Education from California State East Bay and later his School Administration Certificate.  Matt has many hobbies including photo retouching, amateur songwriting, and woodworking. His technology passion is teaching young children the creativity of programming and digital arts.  He is married to Liz Graham who together manage a hobby ranch of goats, chickens, dogs, and cats.  Matt is joining the budding digital team to provide leadership and guidance as we further expand our community communications and digital fundraising campaigns.

Gina Milani
Director

I've spent my career in high-tech advertising, marketing, and communications, working in agencies, corporate roles, and as a consultant. I also have experience in non-profit marketing in the Boston area, where I supported organizations focused on mental health, substance abuse, and employment training. After moving to Angels Camp and learning about Sierra HOPE, I knew it was an agency I wanted to support. Everyone needs well-being, rewarding work, a place to call home and food to eat.  Basic needs.  With my background in community development and crafting effective communications, I aim to help Sierra HOPE share the impact of its essential work—whether it’s in housing, food security, or services for those living with AIDS. My goal is to help strengthen connections with our generous community, civic leaders, and engage donors to support Sierra HOPE’s vital mission in our vibrant rural area.

Rachel Smith
Director

Rachel Smith is currently a Director of Strategy and Operations at Google, bringing experience in building organizations large and small coupled with an extensive career in human resources to the Sierra Hope board. A graduate of the University of Southern California and the University of Westminster in London, Rachel has honed her knowledge in both strategic planning and organizational development. Since relocating to Sonora two years ago with her family, she has sought to connect with a mission-driven organization that aligns with her values.
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"I'm thrilled to join the Sierra Hope board and lend my experience to an organization doing so much to help those in need in our community," Rachel says. "The organization's dedication to making a difference in people's lives deeply resonates with me, and I'm excited to be a part of its positive impact."

Carolyn Woodall
Director

Carolyn Woodall brings a wealth of experience and dedication to Sierra HOPE. As an attorney, she has provided pro-bono services to the organization and is familiar with its mission and operations from her previous tenure as a board member. Carolyn is deeply involved in advocacy for equality and non-discrimination, having chaired a church commission focused on these issues and served on a task force within The Episcopal Church addressing discrimination and sexual harassment of women, with a focus on LGBTQ+ concerns.
In addition to her legal work, Carolyn is a deacon in The Episcopal Church and a former member of the Standing Committee for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, serving as an advisory body for the bishop. She currently works in the conflict division of the Tuolumne County Public Defender's Office. Her passion for helping those in need aligns closely with Sierra HOPE’s mission, and she is committed to ensuring the organization continues to thrive and serve the community.