Spotlights on EXP Students and Alumni at Oceans of Opportunity
Say hello to our EXP alumni emcees, Toni Alvarez and Angel Barragan!
We are thrilled to have another pair of real-life best friends and Phineas Banning High School International Trade Academy alums, Toni Alvarez and Angel Barragan, join us at Oceans of Opportunity as our co-emcees!
“We’re excited to be part of Oceans of Opportunity as emcees! It’s a full circle moment for us," said Angel. "EXP gave us the confidence and foundation to get started, and we’re grateful to now come back and support the next group of students as they begin their journeys.”
Angel's EXP internship with the Marine Exchange of Southern California set him on the path as a maritime and transportation professional. Now the Regional Operations Manager at Inchcape Shipping Services, Angel is passionate about reconnecting with other alums and helping us build a strong alumni network.
As for Toni, after an EXP internship at the Los Angeles Maritime Institute, she was inspired to apply to and attend Cal Poly Maritime Academy to pursue a career in maritime, supported by EXP scholarships. Now a merchant mariner, Toni made sure to be on shore in April to be your gala host!
Student Showcase Returns to Oceans of Opportunity
Please join us and 300 industry and community leaders on Thursday, April 30, at the Hotel Maya for one incredible night as we honor our dedicated partners and committed volunteers, learn more about our students and their stories, and help them unlock tomorrow.
See your support in action and interact with our students during the reception as they showcase their projects.
Phineas Banning High School STEAM Academy and the Phillips 66 Robotics Program.
Sato Academy of Math and Science rollercoaster projects, mentored by EXP industry volunteers.
Gardena High School Global Business Magnet board games and puzzles, on a mission to reduce screen time and build interpersonal connections.
Additionally, the celebration will also feature:
Opening fanfare by the Phineas Banning High School Mighty Marching Pilots
Take-home cookies by San Pedro High School Culinary CTE
Event photography support from Beckman High School Visual Imagery Pathway students
Centerpieces by EXP alum Sarah Trejo (Tustin HS '25)
But wait! There's more!
Our celebration is packed with activities this year, beyond our silent auction catalog and exotic travel destinations for the live auction!
Making his Oceans of Opportunity debut, our board member Pat Wilson and the Pat Wilson Trio!
Photo booth by OMGee Pix! by alum Erick OjedaGarcia (Phineas Banning HS).
