Our Founder
Welcome to the Founder’s page, celebrating the vision and impact of Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami. As the founder of OCCTAC, she has dedicated her life to empowering at-risk youth and special needs families through arts, education, and therapy. Discover her journey, achievements, and commitment to equity and inclusion.​
Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami, Founder & Executive Director
Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami is the Founder and Executive Director of the Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center (OCCTAC), a nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of at-risk youth and special needs families through the arts, education, and therapy. Since its founding in 2000 in Santa Ana, OCCTAC has become a vital resource, serving thousands of children and families annually.
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Before establishing OCCTAC, she was a professor at Chapman University, California State University, Northridge, Loyola Marymount University, USC, and the University of Puerto Rico. She has also served on numerous boards promoting youth empowerment, arts, and disability inclusion, including the State Board for VSA Arts & Disability, the National Board for NACOPRW, and the Regional Board for MECCA.
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​Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami has been recognized continuously in the community for her contributions in the fields of Arts and Culture, Education and Social Services. Some of her awards include: a (2020) OC LULAC Award, (2017) Women who Make a Difference in OC Award; a (2013) OC Register Hero of the Year award; a (2012) OC Department of Education, Outstanding Contributions to Education Award; a (2007) National Hispanic Business Women Association Award for Organizational Entrepreneurship; a (2007) Faculty Award from Chapman University; a (2006) City of Santa Ana Community Building award; a (2006) Human Relations Award from the Orange County Human Relations Commission for promoting equality, human rights and social justice; a (2003) Arts & Culture Award by the National Organization of MANA, and others.
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​Her lifelong mission is to ensure that all children, regardless of background, have access to opportunities that foster creativity, learning, and personal growth through the transformative power of the arts and education.
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Board of Directors
OCCTAC is guided by a dedicated and diverse Board of Directors, committed to driving our mission of transformative change through arts, education, and community empowerment. Our esteemed board members bring a wealth of expertise, passion, and leadership to the forefront of OCCTAC's initiatives.