Foundation for Californias Technology and Innovation Economy
Our Board
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Gina Grajeda (Chair)
Gina (Frisby) Grajeda is a seasoned legislative strategist and policy expert with over 15 years of experience in public administration, government affairs, and organizational leadership. Most recently serving as Chief of Staff to Evan Low, she is a trusted advisor known for developing strategic agendas, strengthening stakeholder relationships, and leading high-performing teams. Gina has spearheaded legislative initiatives, navigated complex political environments, and implemented policies that enhance operational efficiency and align with broader goals. Her prior roles include Senior Consultant in the Speaker’s Office of Member Services and Legislative Director/Lobbyist for the California Faculty Association, as well as Legislative Director for Sharon Quirk-Silva and Fiona Ma. Known for advancing impactful legislation, building bipartisan relationships, and delivering strategic policy analysis, Gina resides in Sacramento with her partner, where they are raising their three teenagers, and she is a proud member of the Yurok Tribe.
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Shaina Brown
Shaina is a government affairs leader with deep expertise in state policy advocacy across e-commerce, privacy, taxation, ESG, money transmission, AI, and small business issues, with a proven track record of building and leading cross-sector coalitions that drive meaningful, lasting impact. As Head of State Government Relations at eBay, she leads nationwide advocacy efforts representing both the company and the millions of small sellers on its platform, drawing on more than fifteen years of state political experience to navigate complex legislative environments, shape pragmatic policy solutions, and build durable relationships across stakeholders. She is passionate about advancing policies that expand economic opportunity while promoting equity and responsible innovation, and she currently serves on the Board of Directors for VALOR US and previously served as Board Chair for Girls on the Run of Greater Sacramento, supporting initiatives that advance social justice and empower the next generation of leaders.
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Melanie Cuevas
Melanie serves as Vice President of State and Local Government Relations for the JP Morgan Chase, where she leads advocacy efforts on a broad portfolio of key industry issues. She is highly regarded at the State Capitol and respected by her peers for her professionalism and collaborative approach. With academic backgrounds in journalism and marketing, Melanie brings strong communication skills and strategic insight, enabling her to effectively navigate California’s dynamic and complex political landscape.

Kasey O’Connor
Kathryn “Kasey” O’Connor serves as the Executive Director of the CalAccount Blue Ribbon Commission (CalAccount). CalAccount will advance the California Public Banking Option Act - marking a significant step toward delivering state-sponsored banking services to Californians. If implemented, the CalAccount Program would create a new retail banking option to offer every Californian a zero-fee, zero-penalty debit account and debit card, new paycheck and government payment direct deposit options, and financial literacy tools. Kasey brings extensive public-sector and policy experience, most recently serving as Executive Director of the California HOPE for Children Trust Account Program, with prior leadership roles in the State Treasurer’s Office, the State Board of Equalization, and the California State Assembly.
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Jason Chan
Jason Chan serves as Director of External Affairs where he leads national engagement with Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) and LGBTQ+ communities while helping shape cohesive policy messaging across state and federal teams. In his role, he provides strategic counsel and rapid response on key issues including COVID-19, wildfire relief, and social justice, while advancing internal priorities. With more than a decade of experience in advocacy, Chan has helped drive AT&T’s community investments in workforce development, career readiness, digital media, and entertainment opportunities. Prior to AT&T, he held several roles with the City and County of San Francisco, including serving as Appointments Secretary to Mayor Gavin Newsom and Political Director for Ed Lee’s mayoral campaign. He currently serves on the boards of National ACE, APAICS, and Equality California, and holds a Master of Public Administration from Golden Gate University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from San Francisco State University.