Ava

A recent Santa Clara University graduate with a degree in finance, Ava is excited to continue her service journey in the nonprofit sector. Her studies helped her understand what it takes for an organization to grow sustainably, and she’s eager to support GOTRBA as we reach and empower more girls across the Bay Area.

Growing up, Ava loved playing and watching sports. Those experiences taught her the value of relationships with teammates and helped her build confidence in herself and her abilities. Now, she’s excited to help the next generation of girls experience those same benefits.

Ava looks forward to learning from the team, connecting with our community, and supporting a program where girls can challenge themselves physically and mentally, practice positive self-talk, and build meaningful relationships with movement and one another.

Caitlin Conroy

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Caitlin is happy to be back after graduating from UC Davis with a degree in history and a minor in environmental policy. Through her previous work in a youth program, she saw firsthand how much support, encouragement, and community matter to children.

Caitlin enjoyed sports growing up, but eventually stepped away because of the competitive environment. That experience makes GOTRBA’s emphasis on having fun and building confidence and resilience especially meaningful to her. She values a space where girls can feel comfortable being themselves, support one another, and participate regardless of their skill level.

This year, Caitlin looks forward to bringing her experience to the team, learning from her colleagues, and helping create a positive experience for program participants. She’s also excited to grow personally and discover new ways to serve her community.

Elka Sorensen

An East Bay native, Elka is excited to give back to the community where she grew up. She graduated from Tufts University with a double major in Studio Art and Environmental Studies. Her studies deepened her understanding of how access to nature and outdoor activities can affect people’s health and connection to their neighborhoods, as well as the barriers that can keep people from those experiences.

For Elka, GOTRBA’s mission is personal. Growing up, she lost confidence in sports and eventually stopped participating because she feared failure and felt the pressure of competition. Looking back, she wishes she’d had a space to learn that movement could be about having fun, challenging herself, and feeling capable. Now, she runs practically every day!

Elka wants to help girls build that confidence early and see themselves as capable and supported. She’s looking forward to supporting the program behind the scenes and running alongside the girls. As she puts it, “Hope to see you huffing and puffing with me, or at least cheering from the sidelines!”

Please join us in welcoming Ava, Caitlin, and Elka to Girls on the Run Bay Area! We’re grateful for the energy and perspective they bring to our community and look forward to all we’ll do together this year.