Meet the Team
Below are descriptions of our dedicated student leadership. Take some time to get to know us - you'll be seeing us at sessions!
Founder + Executive Director
John Han
The founder and Executive Director of Ambitious Young Scholars, John leads ideation, growth, and is deeply involved in lesson planning and student connection. His vision for an accelerative learning supplement drew inspiration from his firsthand witnessing of the struggles of his classmates and peers in the field of advanced literacy. With experience in scientific research, paper writeups, public speaking, and entrepreneurship, he dedicates his knowledge to empowering young students through refined writing skills. He assembled a team of the brightest high school minds of the 2027 graduating year, and is proud to spearhead the collective for youth empowerment.
Managing Director
Jolene Tran
As the Managing Director of Ambitious Young Scholars, Jolene oversees planning of lessons, organization of dates, outreach with community partners, and execution of programs designed for optimal student success. She has had much experience with entrepreneurship, communication, and speech giving, having developed these skills through journalistic work and leadership in several projects; she is excited to bring these skills to AYS. Her volunteer work at Shepherd's Pantry, the Glendora Transportation Center, and local youth programs has strengthened her ability to connect with students and create an encouraging learning environment. Jolene is passionate about building supportive systems, gathering student feedback, and helping middle/high schoolers sharpen the skills they need to thrive academically and personally.
Head of Marketing and Publicity
Katelynn Wilder
As the Head of Marketing and Publicity for Ambitious Young Scholars, Katelynn manages the organization's online presence through social media, photography, and videography. A dedicated member of Glendora ASB's media group, Katelynn has honed her skills in creative content production, writing, and visual storytelling to effectively engage audiences and promote student initiatives. She brings strong leadership abilities and public speaking skills, allowing her to confidently educate and inspire students. Passionate about connecting with others, Katelynn is committed to helping students access valuable resources and foster a supportive engaging environment where they can thrive both academically and personally.
Community Engagement Director
Khloe Cruz
As a dedicated leader at Ambitious Young Scholars, Khloe dedicates herself to the mission of inspiring middle school students through the art of reading and writing. She assists with workshop activities, mentors younger students in developing their storytelling skills, and helps plan engaging lessons that make literature exciting and thought-provoking. Her experience in academic writing, creative projects, and peer collaboration allows her to connect with students and encourage confidence in their own voices. Through AYS, Khloe is passionate about fostering a love for books, building strong communication skills, and creating a supportive environment where students can grow academically and creatively.
Financial Director
Henry Kern
Henry Kern, Financial Director of AYS, is a top student at Glendora High in English and speaking - winning the English award for sophomore Honors English. In 2024 he participated in multiple speech competitions and won the area level of the Rotary Four-way Speech competition and advanced to the regional level. He took four AP exams sophomore year (with three being history tests that focused heavily on writing) and scored 5s on all of them. A devoted member of AYS, he believes not only in the organization's cause but also its potential to help students in preparing early for the challenges of high school writing. He believes the difference between middle school and high school writing to be daunting, and thus he and AYS are here to help students bridge the gap.