Our Administration Team
Christian Neiswonger has been a dedicated volunteer with SAGE Global since 2018 and serves as Executive Director, leading our global directors and ensuring the successful completion of key projects. Based in Southern California, Christian works as a Technical Accounts Manager at MCR Technologies, specializing in technical solutions and client relationships. He holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Chico State University and Bachelor’s degrees in Business Management and Marketing.
Since joining SAGE in 2016, Shane Hooker has been instrumental in guiding teen entrepreneurs as they prepare for the SAGE U.S. Competition and World Cup. He focuses on assisting participants with annual reports, oral presentations, goal setting, and monthly check-ins. Collaborating with the Directors of Recruiting and Innovation, Shane ensures smooth transitions for new businesses, introducing them to the competition timeline and structure. He also ensures the team is familiar with competition guidelines and coordinates the submission of materials. Based in Los Angeles, Shane works as a marketing professional and holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Chico State University.
Lindsey Alford has been part of SAGE since 2017 and currently serves as the Marketing Director, where she oversees the organization’s branding and communication efforts to inspire and connect young entrepreneurs globally. She holds a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing, from Chico State University. Lindsey is also based in Los Angeles, and works as the VP of Sales for Tedu, a higher education platform based in Miami, Florida.
Dalsin Alves holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from California State University, Chico, and is currently pursuing a Master's in Public Health at UC Irvine. New to SAGE as of 2024, Dalsin is dedicated to empowering others and supporting their success. She is passionate about contributing to the development of entrepreneurial leaders whose innovative solutions and social enterprises meet significant global needs.
Miguel Ramirez has been a part of SAGE since 2016, serving as the Co-Director of Web Development with a focus on external-facing technology. He is dedicated to enhancing the competition experience and bringing innovative ideas to reimagine SAGE’s technological foundation. Miguel holds a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Management from California State University, Chico. Leveraging his expertise in technology and management, Miguel plays a key role in driving SAGE’s digital evolution and supporting its mission. Based in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, he is also a Corporate Support Analyst at Beachbody.
Jonathan Gomez has been part of SAGE since 2016 and serves as the Co-Director of Web Development, focusing on SAGE's internal technological development. His work involves designing innovative systems to enhance the organization’s operations. Jonathan holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management from California State University, Chico. Currently a Product Integration Engineer 3 at Haas Automation, Inc. Jonathan specializes in system integration, mechanical design, and coding. His role with SAGE has allowed him to connect with diverse cultures and individuals, enriching his professional and personal growth.
Blake Guillén has been part of SAGE since 2017 and serves as the Director of Integration, where he helps onboard new SAGE Coordinators and ensures seamless operations at all SAGE events. Based in Portland, Oregon, Blake holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Management and Project Management from California State University, Chico. In his professional role, Blake works as a Human Resources Coordinator at Schnitzer Properties, leveraging his expertise in management and operational efficiency to contribute to SAGE’s mission and success.
Leadership
Rob Best
Chief Executive Officer
Supporting SAGE Global since before our incorporation in 2002, Rob is now our CEO and is focused on guiding us toward being a world-leading example of inclusion, diversity and equality.
Carol Furtado
Chief Operating Officer
Since 2003 Carol has supported the SAGE Global team with attention to detail that has helped our organization achieve sustainable norms that continue to exceed expectations. Carol is responsible for global operations and ensuring that all of the systems, resources, and people are in place to achieve our goals.
Board Of Directors
Peter Fagen
Chairman of the Board
Steven Drenth
Board Member
Kelby Thornton
Board Member
Danielle Harmony
Board Member
Helen Shi
Board Member
Van Ajemian
Board Member