Meet the Team
Leadership Rooted in Purpose
Andrea Martin
Co-Founder
Andrea holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Teaching from William Jessup University, bringing a strong foundation in human development, education, and counseling to SE Emerge. Since 2015, she has supported teens and young adults through emotional‑regulation coaching, life‑skills instruction, and community‑based learning. Her professional background includes serving as a paraprofessional with FCUSD, teaching since 2019, and founding the Social Explorers Social Recreation Program in 2022. With two years of direct experience navigating the Self‑Determination Program and working with FMS agencies, Andrea helps families access services with clarity and confidence. Her certifications—CPR/First Aid, Lifeguard Training, De‑escalation Training, and EpiPen Administration—reflect her commitment to safety and preparedness. Andrea’s blend of teaching, counseling, and community support uniquely equips her to help neurodivergent adults build independence, confidence, and meaningful daily routines.
Megan Gundersen
Co-Founder
Megan combines adaptive fitness expertise, life‑skills instruction, and community support to strengthen SE Emerge’s whole‑person approach. She holds an Associate’s degree in Administration of Justice, graduating with honors from American River College, and has worked as a paraprofessional since 2019 supporting neurodivergent students. As the owner of Unique Abilities Fitness and Training, she is a certified adaptive fitness trainer with ISSA specialties in Strength Training, Rest and Recovery, Nutrition, and additional wellness areas. With over a decade of hands‑on life‑skills instruction as a mother of three and one year of experience working with FMS agencies and the SDP process, Megan brings both practical insight and professional expertise to her work. Her certifications—CPR/First Aid, Lifeguard Training, De‑escalation Training, and EpiPen Administration—ensure a safe, responsive environment. Megan’s strengths in fitness, structured routine‑building, and personal connection help members grow in independence, wellness, and confidence.
Karen DeBenedetto
Instructor
Karen DeBenedetto is an experienced Transition Specialist with over 15 years of dedicated service supporting students with special needs. Throughout her career, she has worked collaboratively with students, families, and educators to help young adults develop the skills necessary for independence and success beyond the classroom. Karen is trained in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention and is CPR certified, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for those she serves. Her commitment, professionalism, and compassion have been recognized through being named Employee of the Year three times during her tenure within the school district.
Outside of her professional life, Karen is a devoted wife, mother, and proud grandmother who values quality time with her family. She enjoys creative and hands-on hobbies such as scrapbooking, baking, gardening, and dancing. An outdoor enthusiast, Karen loves hiking and going on new adventures with her husband and family, embracing every opportunity to stay active and connected to the people she loves.