Sommer Cartier joined STAR/PAL in late 2025 as Development Manager, leading corporate partnerships, fundraising strategy, and donor stewardship to advance meaningful connections between youth and law enforcement throughout San Diego County.

With over 10 years of nonprofit experience spanning operations, programming, and development, she brings a well-rounded perspective that links fundraising strategy directly to program impact and long-term sustainability. Sommer specializes in building authentic partnerships rooted in shared values and measurable outcomes, guiding campaigns and signature events that generate revenue while deepening trust and expanding opportunity for youth. She believes strongly in the power of consistent, positive relationships to build stronger communities and open doors for young people.

Outside of work, Sommer is a certified Master Gardener through the University of California Cooperative Extension. She writes the edible gardening column, “Grow in Abundance,” for the San Diego Horticultural Society and enjoys gardening, spending time outdoors, and camping – appreciating the balance and perspective that time in nature brings.

Officer Bermudez was born in East Los Angeles and grew up in Pomona, California. He is the oldest of four brothers and two sisters. Pomona was a very difficult and diverse community to grow up in. During Officer Bermudez’s adolescence, he constantly had to overcome the pressure of alcohol, drugs, and gangs.

After graduating high school, he attended Mt. San Antonio College and Hope University. Officer Bermudez also began working with kids of a very young age. He was a sports coach, physical education teacher, and an athletic director for multiple non-profit Christian schools. After approximately six years of coaching and teaching, he managed multiple sports and activities for various summer camps of different age groups.

Officer Bermudez has never forgotten his desire to become a police officer, which has resonated with him since high school. In 2016, Officer Bermudez left California to start his career in law enforcement, where he was hired by Topeka, Kansas Police Department. After three years of service, he decided to come back to his home state of California. He was hired by the San Diego Police Department in 2019, where he has been continuing his law enforcement career. In 2023, he decided to combine his law enforcement career with his love of working with kids by joining STAR/PAL. Officer Bermudez is excited for this new career path that he is embarking on

Andy has been an active member of the San Diego community since 2001 and was introduced to STAR/PAL by fellow little league coach and former board chair, Jimmy Tabb.

Fueled by STAR/PAL’s mission to foster trust between law enforcement and young people, Andy was captivated by the unique collaboration and remained dedicated to the cause during his tenure on the Board. His commitment to bridging the gap between communities and law enforcement is unwavering.

In his capacity within STAR/PAL, he advocates for its mission, serving as a liaison between stakeholders and spearheading initiatives to enhance the organization’s effectiveness.

Outside his professional pursuits, Andy finds joy in cheering on his kids at their athletic events, and attending concerts and sports matches.

Melissa joined the STAR/PAL team in 2022 as the Program Manager. Growing up she always envisioned wanting to help others and getting involved in the community.  Melissa chased her passion and graduated from San Diego City College with an Associate Degree in Science and furthered her education to San Diego State where she received her Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. She enjoys seeing youth learn and grow through different experiences and opportunities that come their way and given a chance to engage that they might have not had the opportunity to before. Forming positive relationships, making an impact on an individual’s life, and connecting with youth and families is something Melissa truly enjoys.  

Originally from the Bay area, Melissa moved to San Diego at the start of high school. Apart from her studies, she enjoys spending with family, working out, and eating some authentic food.

Mayra joined the team as Director of Community Relations in 2020. She came to STAR/PAL from the San Diego Probation Department where she organized all community events such as Coffee with Probation, Back to School Events and Holiday Giveaways.

A San Diego native, Mayra bridges the gap with her long-standing community partnerships.  She has over 20 years of experience in serving communities in San Diego county.