About Us
Our Mission Statement
The Kravis Lab for Civic Leadership fulfills Claremont McKenna College’s mission of preparing students for thoughtful and productive lives and responsible leadership in business, government, and the professions. We provide experiences and programming that build and enhance students’ civic readiness in preparation for their role as civic leaders. We foster creative, collaborative, and courageous public leaders by building the knowledge, habits, and skills needed to be thoughtful, engaged, and impactful members of a democratic society.
Meet the Team
Vernon C. Grigg III
Executive Director
Vernon C. Grigg III is a seasoned trial lawyer and educator with a deep commitment to education, inclusion, and public service. Holding degrees from Yale Law School (J.D.), the London School of Economics (G.SC.), and the University of Michigan (BA), Vernon has served as CEO & President of Up with People, where he led a global team through challenging times.
His legal career includes representing diverse clients, from government officials to Fortune 100 companies, and significant pro bono work in civil rights. Vernon has taught at Golden Gate University School of Law and has international experience, including groundbreaking roles in South Africa and Israel.
As the new Executive Director of the Kravis Lab, Vernon aims to advance CMC’s mission in civic engagement and civic leadership. He is also certified in Intergroup Dialogue.
Paige Omokawa
Assistant Director
As the Assistant Director of the Kravis Lab for Civic, Paige leads the day-to-day operations, fostering an environment where students can thrive personally and professionally in the field of civics. She collaborates closely with students, offering them tailored opportunities to develop essential civic knowledge, skills, and inspiration.
Originally from San Dimas, California, Paige holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a Master’s in Business Administration from Azusa Pacific University. With a career in higher education beginning in 2015, she brings experience and passion for empowering the next generation of engaged citizens.
Outside of her professional life, Paige enjoys connecting with nature through camping and gardening, and she loves spending time at the beach.
Valerie Cubias
Project Coordinator
Valerie Cubias is the Project Coordinator for Kravis Lab for Civic Leadership at Claremont McKenna College, where she excels in planning, organizing, collaborating, and hosting impactful events. With a background in higher education administration and a strong focus on civic involvement, Valerie demonstrates leadership by effectively guiding students and fostering success within her team. With her studies in communications and the Spanish language, she’s driven by a deep-seated desire to assist others who face challenges.
Valerie brings a vibrant energy to her work, matched by her love for nature and outdoor activities. Her extroverted personality and genuine intent to amplify others’ voices underscore her commitment to positively impacting everyone she encounters.
Kravis Lab Student Staff
Sophia Kestell
Social Media Marketing Lead
Sophia Kestell is the Social Media Marketing Lead for Kravis Lab for Civic Leadership. She is a fourth-year Claremont McKenna College student majoring in Environmental Economics and Politics (EEP) with a sequence in Film Studies. Passionate about using storytelling to convey messages across various platforms, Sophia is thrilled to join the Kravis team and leverage storytelling to enhance civic knowledge within the Claremont community.
Talia de Beer
Marketing Lead
Talia is a senior at CMC majoring in Economics and Leadership Studies. She is passionate about impactful storytelling and enjoys spending time in the Southern California sun. Talia is also the marketing lead for Student Connection and the trusting key point student on the updated Kravis Lab website.
