About
Our mission, plain and simple, is unleashing potential. We do that by equipping students with the tools to discover their own creative identity and leadership abilities. Through events, programs, and curricula, we catalyze new ways of thinking about creativity, foster self-expression, and support social-emotional well-being to equip youth to effect positive change in their lives and society.
The Creative Career Leadership Lab provides program support services to AME students interested in pursuing careers in any of the following creative industries:
History
For decades Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) have played a crucial role in developing leadership and technical skills among students in Career Technical Education (CTE) programs across the country. These organizations provide extracurricular opportunities for students to engage in leadership development and skill-building activities at both state and national levels. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, national CTSO organizations have had a significant instructional impact across various CTE sectors.
The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act acknowledges the importance of CTSOs in CTE instruction and authorizes funding to support their implementation at local and state levels. Currently, California has six nationally recognized CTSOs that serve as the primary means of student support and leadership training. However, there is a pronounced need to expand the reach and impact of these organizations, particularly in creative industries.
According to the annual Otis Report on the Creative Economy, the employment of creative professionals in California increased by 2.1% in 2025. This represents the second consecutive year of gains for this group of workers.. This includes sectors such as media, entertainment, technology, and the arts. In response to the growing importance of these industries and the need to equip students with relevant skills, the California Department of Education established the Arts, Media, and Entertainment (AME) sector to provide educators and students with industry-specific knowledge and resources. One recognized missing piece was a statewide youth leadership organization aligning programs with AME standards and pathways, similar to other CTSOs in the state.
To address this gap, the CCLL aims to establish a statewide youth leadership organization modeled after other successful CTSOs like FBLA and SkillsUSA. This organization will build a community for students, with a focus on youth leadership, student engagement, and work-based learning that aligns with creative industry trends and workforce development needs. By providing leadership development curricula, skill-building opportunities, and industry partnerships, this organization will augment technical skill development with tools to make constructive changes in their lives in areas such as identity, self-esteem, and learning.
While CTSOs have demonstrated their value in other CTE programs, there is a need to expand their reach and reflect the work happening in creative industries. The CCLL programs align with AME standards and pathways, providing students with opportunities for leadership development, skill-building, and industry engagement.
Impact
Our goal is to foster a community of young leaders equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in their lives and the world. Since its inception, CCLL has had a significant influence. From July 2025 through June 30, 2026, CCLL engaged over 2000 students with industry-relevant programming at 3 regional GRID events in Oakland, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Additionally, the number of participating schools increased from 11 to 35 in 2026, and we expanded our programming to provide new resources and opportunities for learning, creativity, and career exploration.
These accomplishments position us to continue uplifting students while supporting the future of the creative industry. Our efforts extend beyond preparing students for the workforce; we are dedicated to cultivating a community of young leaders who possess the skills and mindset to create a positive impact in their own lives and the world.
Team
Loree Goffigon
Guided by a strong belief in the importance of creativity and curiosity, Loree approaches her work in education and management consulting with a commitment to asking better questions, exploring new possibilities, and bringing people together to solve complex challenges. This approach is informed by her background in business strategy, organizational development, communications, and nonprofit leadership. Her commitment to education reform is shaped as much by her professional experience as her perspective as a parent, leading to the focus on helping young people develop the skills and purpose needed to succeed in an ever-changing world. Trained as a painter, Loree also brings a creative perspective to her work and a strong belief in the power of cross-disciplinary thinking to drive innovation.
Tim Maher
Tim Maher is an operations manager with a background in organizational effectiveness and team building. Tim now works in non-profit and government consulting in Los Angeles.
Leah Rosenthal
Leah Rosenthal is a Program Coordinator at CCLL and a costume/set designer working across film and fashion. She brings her experience in the creative industries into her work developing and supporting programs for youth.
Alyssa Rydell
Alyssa Rydell is a Student Program Coordinator. Alyssa has a lifetime of experience in the performing arts, with a strong background and dedication to youth education. She is always looking for ways to combine these passions and contribute to meaningful projects.