Welcome to BNB

Stewardship That Shapes
A Community of Learners

The Board of Trustees safeguards BNB's mission with purpose, accountability, and a deep commitment to every learner's future.

Leadership Rooted in Purpose & Accountability

The BNB Board of Directors serves as the institution's highest governing body - a five-member leadership team made up of a Chairperson, Vice Chair, and three Members. Together, they provide strategic direction, ensure transparency, and uphold accountability across all levels of governance.

Supported by a non-voting CEO and Secretary to the Board, the leadership collaborates to approve policies, development plans, budgets, and senior appointments. The Board meets quarterly and leverages technology to engage effectively when physical meetings are not possible - demonstrating its agility, professionalism, and commitment to ethical leadership.

Board Profiles

Meet The Trustees

Two profiles per row, with the final profile centered to maintain visual balance.

Dr. Isaac Bekalo Bateno

"Leadership is not just about vision - it's about cultivating purpose, empowering others, and stewarding values that outlive us."

Isaac is a seasoned leader and consultant with over 40 years of experience in community organizing, organizational development, strategic planning, and knowledge management. He has held prominent roles at the International Institute of Rural Reconstruction (IIRR), an Asia-based international development organization, including President and CEO, and currently serves as Life President and Senior Advisor.

Isaac holds a PhD in Organizational Development and Planning, MA in Public Health, and an MS in Agriculture. He is widely recognized for his expertise in participatory development and innovative knowledge management, particularly the Writeshop process. In addition, Isaac has served as a professor, board member, and co-founder, co-owner, and chairman of the board of a K-12 school in Ethiopia.

Prusevie Bekalo Boncato (Member & Co-Owner)

"Every child deserves to be seen, heard, and valued - and in that space, true learning begins."

Prusevie Bekalo Boncato is a passionate advocate for nurturing young minds and transforming the way children experience education. As a co-owner and an active board member of BNB Learning Center, she brings a deep sense of empathy and hands-on dedication to every student's journey.

With a heart that sees each child as her own, Prusevie approaches education not as a system, but as a relationship - one grounded in care, understanding, and unwavering commitment. Her years of experience in child-centered learning have made her a pillar of support to both students and staff. Her presence in the leadership team not only strengthens the institution's vision but adds a unique emotional depth that elevates the entire BNB community.

Dr. Pearl Diana Bekalo Mwansa, MD

"Compassionate care begins with understanding the full story behind every patient - their journey, their family, their hope."

Dr. Pearl Diana Bekalo Mwansa is a family medicine doctor practicing in Corpus Christi, Texas. She primarily works with geriatric hospitalized patients with an additional focus on chronic wounds and hospice care. Her approach to medicine emphasizes dignity, comfort, and holistic wellness.

She shares her life with her husband, Paul Mwansa, and their three beautiful daughters: Sofia Grace, Amani Joy, and Nicole Noelle. Her life and leadership reflect a deep-rooted passion for healing, family, and service to others.

Dr. Krystle Sharna Boncato Bekalo Quinlan, DNP, FNP-C

"Healing the mind and body begins with compassionate presence, deep listening, and honoring each life's story."

Dr. Krystle Sharna Boncato Bekalo Quinlan is a family and psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner, currently practicing in Southern California at Loma Linda University Health. She works closely with adult patients living with epilepsy and other complex neurological conditions, combining clinical expertise with holistic care.

She is happily married to Dr. Mykal Quinlan, a pediatric physician. Together they recently welcomed their baby boy, Kyrie Yissahak Bekalo Quinlan, adding new joy and purpose to their life of service and healing.

Ato Saamuel Bekalo (Board Secretary & Managing Director)

"Leadership is the art of steady presence - not loud, not forceful, but deeply rooted in care and conviction."

Ato Saamuel Bekalo, Board Secretary and Managing Director of BNB Learning Center, is a cornerstone of wisdom, strength, and steady leadership. Known throughout the school community for his calm authority and unwavering fairness, he has become a figure of deep trust and comfort to students and staff alike.

His approach to discipline is not rooted in rigidity, but in love - offering every learner both guidance and grace. With a quiet presence that reassures and a principled voice that leads, Ato Saamuel embodies the kind of leadership that shapes lives. His influence is not only felt in policy and operations, but in the hearts of those who walk the halls of BNB.

Stewardship That ShapesA Community of Learners