Board of Directors
Ellen Taxman
Board Chair
Provides strategic guidance and governance to keep our mission on course. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor’s degree in Biology and later earned her master’s in Gerontology and Long-Term Care (LTC) Management from Naropa University. She brings a wealth of wisdom to the organization.
The Hearts Behind the Hope
Achuka for Orphans is guided by a dedicated group of leaders and experts committed to creating lasting educational change and providing compassionate care for South Sudan's children.
Cecilia Achuka
Founder & Executive Director
She started her education in Kenya, obtaining her diploma there before moving to the U.S. to earn a bachelor’s in Economics and International Affairs from the University of Colorado Boulder, focusing on development in Africa and the Middle East. She is passionate about philanthropy, justice, and equality, and believes that each of us has a responsibility to leave the world a better place for future generations.
Prof. Andrew ‘Andy’ DeRoche
Advisor
Dr. Andrew DeRoche is a historian who specializes in U.S.–Africa relations and sports during the Cold War era. He earned his history degrees from Princeton, the University of Maine, and the University of Colorado Boulder. He currently teaches U.S. foreign relations at the University of Colorado Boulder and at Front Range Community College.
Our Executive Team
Mark Narikan
Director of Accounts
Samson Ng’ikoi
Oversees finances to ensure every donation is used wisely.
Program Manager, East Africa
Coordinates programs on the ground with local partners and communities.