Our Team
Max Konan, M.A., Ed. SP.
President and Chief Executive Officer
Max has dedicated his entire career to empowering the disabled community, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to his work. He holds a Lifetime California Teaching Credential from Sonoma State University and a Master of Arts in Education from Sacramento State University, which laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to educational and behavioral support for individuals with disabilities.
Throughout his career, Max has consistently focused on implementing research-based positive behavior modification strategies to foster growth and development among those he serves. He has a strong background in creating impactful and meaningful programs that address the unique needs of individuals with disabilities across Northern California. His approach combines evidence-based practices with compassion, aiming to help participants reach their full potential while cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment.
Before A Bright Future, Inc., Max worked as an Education Specialist in California’s public school system. In this role, he was instrumental in developing individualized education plans and tailored support strategies to enhance the learning experiences of students with disabilities. His expertise in special education has been essential in shaping inclusive classroom environments that prioritize the holistic growth of each student, setting a strong precedent for the work he continues today.
As the current President and Chief Executive Officer of A Bright Future, Inc., Max embodies the organization’s commitment to “Reach Higher.” Under his leadership, he not only drives the mission forward but also inspires both participants and employees to strive for excellence. His leadership style reflects a dedication to creating a culture of possibility, encouraging the entire ABF community to embrace challenges, exceed expectations, and achieve personal growth. Max’s journey from educator to CEO highlights his dedication to making a lasting, positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities and the staff who support them, reinforcing ABF’s vision of a brighter, more inclusive future.
Paul Alex Nocum
Executive Assistant
Billing Manager
Paul is a dedicated finance professional with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from his homeland, the Philippines. Over his 15-year career in the banking sector, he gained extensive experience in accounting and management, working with several major financial institutions. His expertise in financial analysis, reporting, and regulatory compliance provided him with a strong foundation that continues to benefit his role in the tax industry.
Paul serves as a Senior Tax Analyst at a prominent tax company, where he leverages his deep knowledge of accounting principles and tax regulations to deliver strategic insights and effective solutions. As a commissioned Public Notary in California, he further supports the organization by ensuring legal accuracy and compliance in various transactions.
Beyond his analytical role, Paul holds a dual position at A Bright Future, Inc., where he provides high-level administrative support to the CEO as the Executive Assistant. In this capacity, he manages critical projects, oversees daily operations, and ensures effective communication across departments, enabling the CEO to focus on strategic priorities. Additionally, Paul leads the Billing Department and the Quality Assurance Department of A Bright Future.
With a unique blend of financial expertise, leadership, and executive support experience, Paul is an essential contributor to the ongoing success of A Bright Future, Inc., championing both the operational and strategic goals of the organization.
Maricel Ancheta
Accounting and Payroll Manager
Maricel holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy from the Philippines and brings over 20 years of professional experience in the fields of general accounting and budgeting. Her extensive background has provided her with a solid foundation of skills and a deep understanding of financial management. Much of her career was spent working within government organizations, where she gained invaluable expertise in financial procedures, compliance, and strategic budget planning. This experience equipped her with a comprehensive knowledge of regulatory standards, precision in managing public funds, and the ability to handle complex financial processes with accuracy and efficiency.
Currently, Maricel serves as the Payroll ans Accounting Manager for A Bright Future, Inc., where she oversees and manages the organization’s entire payroll process. Her responsibilities encompass all aspects of payroll administration, from preparing payroll schedules and processing employee payments to ensuring accurate tax withholding and handling deductions. Maricel is dedicated to maintaining a smooth, efficient payroll system that upholds the organization’s commitment to financial responsibility and employee satisfaction. Her role is critical in ensuring timely and accurate compensation for ABF’s workforce, contributing to high employee morale and trust in the company’s financial practices.
In her role, Maricel places a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance, remaining vigilant about updates to state and federal payroll laws to ensure that all procedures align with the latest legal requirements. She conducts regular audits, implements best practices for payroll management, and utilizes her keen attention to detail to minimize errors and prevent potential compliance issues. Maricel’s diligence and commitment to excellence make her an essential asset in maintaining ABF’s operational integrity and legal standing.
Beyond payroll management, Maricel frequently collaborates with other departments to support financial planning, budget allocation, and workforce management initiatives. Her vast experience enables her to offer valuable insights into cost efficiency, resource allocation, and fiscal strategy, making her a trusted advisor within the organization. Her proactive approach to identifying and solving potential issues has helped streamline ABF’s financial processes, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Maricel’s dedication, expertise, and commitment to her role have made a lasting impact at A Bright Future, Inc. Her ability to seamlessly manage complex payroll functions while fostering compliance and transparency reflects her deep professionalism and strong ethical standards. As she continues to lead the Payroll Department, Maricel remains an indispensable part of the ABF team, contributing to the organization’s mission and supporting a workplace culture built on trust, accountability, and financial excellence.
Isaac Phaondy Konan
Asset Manager
Isaac is a young, dedicated, and reliable college student who brings years of experience in caregiving and housekeeping to his role, paired with a strong focus on organization and efficiency. His background has helped him develop a keen eye for time management and a talent for creating systems that optimize productivity and streamline tasks. Known for his commitment to quality and a proactive approach to every responsibility, Isaac consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.
Currently pursuing a degree in Accounting, Isaac combines his academic focus with hands-on experience in asset management. As the Asset Manager for A Bright Future, Inc., he is entrusted with overseeing the company’s properties, including those that are owned, leased, and subleased. In this role, Isaac ensures that all properties are maintained to the highest standards, operating smoothly and meeting compliance requirements. His analytical skills and strategic mindset make him well-suited for managing the company’s assets, allowing him to balance multiple tasks while maximizing the efficiency and value of each property.
Isaac’s work ethic can be summed up by his motto, “less talk, more work,” a philosophy he brings to every project. His dedication to both his studies and professional responsibilities highlights his drive to excel and his determination to make a positive impact on A Bright Future’s operations.
Chanell Smith
Program Director
Chanell is a highly experienced mental health professional with a wealth of knowledge gained over many years in the field. Her expertise has equipped her with the skills needed to support clients with complex, high-level needs, particularly those who are dually diagnosed with co-occurring mental health and developmental conditions. Her experience allows her to navigate the challenges associated with providing care for individuals facing significant behavioral and health obstacles, and she consistently demonstrates a willingness to take on these complex cases. Chanell is deeply committed to ensuring that each client receives the tailored support and access to resources they need to achieve stability and growth.
In her role at A Bright Future, Inc., Chanell has proven to be a highly effective leader, excelling in a structured environment that emphasizes the implementation of behavioral intervention plans and the provision of specialized care for clients with developmental disabilities. Her leadership extends to overseeing the development and execution of strategies that address serious maladaptive behaviors and support individuals with moderate health concerns. Chanell approaches each client with patience, empathy, and professionalism, and her dedication to positive outcomes shines through in her daily interactions. Her approach promotes a supportive atmosphere that encourages clients to work towards meaningful improvements in their lives.
Chanell’s impact at ABF goes beyond her direct client work; she is an inspiring leader to her colleagues as well. Her willingness to tackle difficult cases and her consistent demonstration of best practices set a high standard for quality care within the organization. Chanell is known for her ability to inspire confidence in her team, sharing her insights and fostering a collaborative environment where staff members feel empowered to provide exceptional support to clients. Her guidance and example have contributed to a culture of excellence, where each team member is motivated to uphold the organization’s values and mission.
Beyond her technical expertise, Chanell is a champion for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. She is dedicated to building a brighter future for each client by advocating for their needs, ensuring their voices are heard, and promoting their inclusion in the community. Her commitment to making “A Bright Future” truly bright is evident in her daily contributions, as she works tirelessly to create lasting positive change in the lives of those she serves.
Chanell’s profound dedication, leadership skills, and unwavering commitment to A Bright Future, Inc.‘s mission have left an indelible mark on the organization. Her work has not only enhanced the quality of care provided but has also fostered a culture of compassion, resilience, and empowerment. As she continues her journey with ABF, Chanell remains a driving force behind the organization’s vision of providing high-quality, individualized care that helps clients lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.
Ian Davies
Program Director
Ian has dedicated his career to health and human services, with a strong focus on enhancing care and support for those in need. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Tufts University and a Master of Science in Clinical Social Work from Boston University.
Throughout his career, Ian has emphasized person-centered treatment modalities, adhering to best clinical practices, and working toward sustainable, systemic improvements in congregate care and broader systems of care. His efforts aim to positively impact the lives of those served by these agencies.
As a Program Director, Ian brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to the individuals served by the agency.
Alex Hernandez
Day Program Director
Alex has been a valued member of the ABF team since joining as an entry-level DSP in early 2022. Raised in Vallejo, one of the nation’s most diverse communities, he brings a strong commitment to inclusivity and the cultural richness that diversity fosters.
With a robust background in community service, Alex has been deeply involved in volunteer initiatives, including supporting food kitchens and managing a volunteer-based music venue for several years.
A firm advocate for reciprocal learning, Alex believes that individuals with developmental disabilities have as much to teach as they have to learn from others. In his role, he is dedicated to advancing the quality of care, programming, and participant engagement within our Day Program, ensuring a dynamic and enriching experience that supports personal growth and learning for each individual.
Kimberly Diaz
Resource Coordinator
Kimberly is a recent graduate from Cal State Fullerton in Southern California, where she focused her studies on animation and creative writing within the arts. She has skillfully transferred her creative expertise to her current role at A Bright Future, Inc., where she crafts insightful reports that document each participant’s journey toward greater independence. Her writing brings these stories to life, highlighting each individual’s unique challenges and achievements. Kimberly also takes the time to meet personally with every new participant, building connections through listening to their personal stories and gaining a deeper understanding of their backgrounds, which brings a personal touch to her work and strengthens her connection with each participant.
Thanks to the opportunities provided by A Bright Future, Inc., Kimberly will begin studying psychology in Los Angeles in the spring semester of 2022. Her ultimate goal is to become a licensed therapist, allowing her to make a meaningful impact in mental health and support others on their personal journeys. Looking ahead, Kimberly envisions combining her passions for art and therapy as an art teacher for children with developmental disabilities. Eventually, she hopes to transition to teaching art part-time at the high school level, where she can inspire students to explore their creative potential and offer guidance as they grow.
Outside of her professional life, Kimberly enjoys spending quality time with her family and her seven dogs, who bring joy and companionship to her days. She is also a dedicated artist, frequently drawing in her free time and taking on art commissions from home. Her love for art is woven into both her professional and personal life, as she continues to develop her talents and share her creativity with others. Kimberly’s unique blend of artistic skill, empathy, and dedication to helping others shines through in all she does, making her a valued member of the A Bright Future team.
Danielle Melo
Accounting Assistant
Danielle’s warm and welcoming smile is the first thing you’ll encounter when you step into the headquarters of A Bright Future, setting a positive and inviting tone for everyone who walks through the door. Her friendly and approachable demeanor creates a welcoming atmosphere, making clients, colleagues, and visitors feel valued and appreciated.
Danielle joined A Bright Future with over five years of experience in the field of accounting, bringing with her a deep understanding of financial processes and a strong commitment to precision and accuracy. Her background includes extensive work in general accounting, where she developed an impressive range of skills that are integral to her current role. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, Danielle has a natural aptitude for problem-solving and excels at managing multiple tasks efficiently, often with minimal supervision. Her ability to handle complex accounting functions while ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and compliance has made her an invaluable asset to the team.
Beyond her technical expertise, Danielle possesses a genuine passion for supporting individuals with disabilities. This commitment shines through in her daily interactions and her eagerness to go above and beyond to assist colleagues and superiors alike. Her dedication to the mission of A Bright Future is evident not only in her work but also in the respect and support she shows her peers, always willing to lend a hand or share her knowledge to make a difference. Her empathetic nature and strong work ethic have helped create a collaborative, supportive environment within the organization.
Danielle’s presence in the office is much more than her accounting duties; she plays a crucial role in fostering a positive workplace culture. Her enthusiasm for helping others and her proactive approach to her responsibilities inspire those around her. Danielle often volunteers to take on additional projects, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to the organization’s success. She understands the importance of her work in supporting the organization’s overall mission, and she takes pride in contributing to the financial health and operational efficiency of A Bright Future.
Her dedication to the organization and its goals has made her a reliable team member whom others naturally turn to for support. Danielle is not only skilled in her professional capacity but also brings a sense of compassion and positivity that uplifts the entire team. Her blend of technical skills, dedication to service, and caring attitude make her a vital part of the A Bright Future family.
Danielle continues to leave a lasting impression on everyone she interacts with, and her contributions are instrumental to the organization’s daily operations. As A Bright Future grows and expands its impact, Danielle’s role will remain central to its continued success. Her commitment to the organization’s mission, combined with her talents and positive spirit, helps build a brighter future not only for her colleagues but also for the individuals they collectively serve.