Board Chair

Linda Mercer is a lifelong philanthropist, community advocate, and accomplished marketing professional whose career has been defined by a commitment to promoting the welfare and well-being of others. As the incoming Chair of the Mamie Pearl Foundation, Linda brings more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy, charitable causes, marketing, retail merchandising, special events, and community engagement. Her appointment as Chair represents an important step in the foundation’s continued growth and reflects her ability to combine compassionate leadership with the strategic expertise needed to expand a nonprofit organization’s reach and impact.

Founder/Board Vice Chair

Christy Larson is a skilled educator and innovative leader with expertise in computer science and STEM instruction for students ranging from kindergarten through university-level education. She has extensive experience designing engaging, hands-on learning experiences that help students develop problem-solving, critical-thinking, creativity, and technology skills. Her work as an educator reflects a commitment to making complex concepts accessible and meaningful while preparing students for success in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Stephanie Rataj is an experienced homeschooling educator with over a decade of hands-on expertise in designing adaptable, inclusive curriculum for families of all backgrounds. Since beginning her homeschooling journey in 2014, she has become known for supporting diverse learners—including neurodiverse students and children with special needs—through practical, real‑world strategies that work in everyday family life.