Our Leadership Team
Founder & CEO
Andy Thorburn
Prior to starting Contemporary Policy Institute, Andy Thorburn had a varied background as a high school English teacher, successful entrepreneur, fundraiser, union activist and political candidate. He serves on numerous non-profit boards of directors, locally and nationally, and has exhibited a lifelong commitment to social justice.
Public School Defenders Hub
Karen Lawson
Karen Lawson serves as Coalition Director of the Public School Defenders Hub. Her professional experience includes project management and marketing in healthcare and technology sectors. She is actively involved in local school district advocacy and organizes program advisors, partner relationships and coalition actions on behalf of the Defenders Hub.
Communications & Public Affairs
Gaston Castellanos
Gaston “Gus” Castellanos heads up Communications & Public Affairs for the Contemporary Policy Institute. He brings to the team experience in communications with the Democratic Party of Orange County, the Little Saigon TV Network and more.