Foundation Staff

Beccie Michael has worked in community college resource development since 2005, beginning with grant writing and later expanding into the field of philanthropy. Beccie is responsible for implementing the strategic vision of the MPC Foundation’s Board, overseeing the organization’s finances, and empowering staff to produce their best work. She particularly enjoys being a part of the life changing moments that happen every day at the college. In her free time, Beccie can be found spending time with her three sons and enjoying one of the many outdoors activities that Monterey County has to offer.

Phone: (831) 655-5506

Email: rmichael@mpc.edu

Gina Bianchi came to the MPC Foundation in 2011. Gina has a Masters of Science in Organizational Leadership, an MBA, and a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration. Gina is passionate about providing every student with the opportunity to enrich their lives and create a better future through the power of education. In her spare time, she enjoys playing pickleball, strength training, eating new and interesting foods, and spending time with her three daughters.

Phone: (831) 646-4086

Email: gbianchi@mpc.edu

Jessica Lopes joined the Foundation team in late 2023. She supports the Foundation Executive Director and staff through various administrative tasks, managing schedules, and facilitating effective communication. Her background in project management, operations, and organization contributes to the overall efficiency and smooth operation of the foundation. Her attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to handle confidential information make her a valued member of the Foundation team. She is committed to the forward momentum of the Foundation and MPC. In her spare time, Jessica likes to work on refurbishing furniture, tend to her veggies in the warmer months, and explore the Monterey area from her kayak and on foot.

Phone: (831) 646-4841

Email: jlopes@mpc.edu  

Gerardo Olivares began working for the MPC Foundation in the role of Development Coordinator back in May of 2016. He is now our Data and Digital Communication Manager. He enjoys helping others with their educational goals, creating life changing opportunities, and participating in the professional development of new students. He is a United States Coast Guard Veteran and an active volunteer in our community. Gerardo’s experience with data entry, educational outreach programs, and studio arts is a great addition to the MPC Foundation. He believes that having the opportunity to capture a moment (in many formats) is a lot more enjoyable when you share it. He spends his spare time adventuring with his wife and kids, photographing and recording people and places, making music, and playing soccer.

Phone: (831) 646-4057

Email: golivares@mpc.edu  

Allison Payne joined the MPC Foundation in 2010, bringing a wealth of resource development experience with local non-profit organizations to her position. She directs the Foundation’s grant writing efforts and enjoys telling the MPC story through her work. Allison has a passion for helping students realize their college dreams and is proud to be in a position to raise funds for vital campus programs. She embraces the Foundation’s philosophy that education is the means by which people reach their greatest potential, something she witnesses every day at MPC.

Phone: (831) 646-4253

Email: apayne@mpc.edu

Amie Plumlee began working as the Accounting Manager with the MPC Foundation in June of 2024. Amie joins the team with a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration with a focus in Accounting from Chico State. She is engaged in managing all aspects of the Foundations Accounting functions and Financial reporting. As a first generation Community College graduate, she believes this experience helps her understand the needs of students and faculty alike. She appreciates the opportunity to help foster achievement and growth for students in a community similar to the environments that profoundly shaped her. It brings her joy to see people making a difference in their lives, the lives of their families, and the community by reaching their educational goals.

Phone: (831) 646-4860

Email: aplumlee@mpc.edu

Darrell McDowell joined the MPC Foundation as Scholarships Program Coordinator in May 2026. In this role, he supports the Foundation’s scholarship program and helps connect students with opportunities that can support their educational goals and long-term success. Darrell brings five years of experience in higher education along with a background in student support and relationship building with diverse groups of community stakeholders. He is passionate about creating welcoming, student-centered experiences and believes in the impact that scholarships can have on the Monterey Peninsula community. Darrell earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from UCLA and is expected to complete his MBA in Fall 2026. He also holds the Project Management Professional (PMP) and Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP) certifications from the Project Management Institute. He enjoys continuing to learn about project management and finding ways to bring collaboration into his work. Outside of work, Darrell enjoys spending time with friends, playing Hues and Cues, and taking trail walks throughout Monterey County. 

Phone: (831) 646-4120

Email: dmcdowell@mpc.edu