Staff & Trainers
The Leon Institute boasts distinguished and versatile staff and trainers with extensive experience in a wide range of disciplines and a commitment to learning excellence.
Aimee Cox
Executive Director
As Executive Director of The Leon Institute, Aimee Cox brings deep experience in community development, systems of care, and social determinants of health. Aimee approaches intractable problems with unshakable resolve and is at her best when supporting transformational change through collaboration.
Clayton Chau, MD, PhD, MASL
Trainer
Dr. Clayton Chau is currently the Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer at National Healthcare & Housing Advisors. Prior to his time at NHHA, he served as Health Care Agency Director and the County Health Officer the County of Orange, California, the 6th largest county in the nation, during the pandemic from 2020 - 2023.
Melissa Querry, LCSW
Trainer
Melissa Querry is a seasoned LCSW with over 25 years of experience in the behavioral health field. She has worked with some of the most vulnerable populations, including abused children, survivors of domestic violence, formerly incarcerated, gang affiliated, homeless and older adults.
Richard Jonokuchi
Trainer
Richard Jonokuchi is an experienced healthcare professional with a diverse background in nursing education, clinical practice, and public service. He currently serves as Academic Director at The Leon Institute, where he draws upon his expertise to provide strategic oversight for the development and implementation of various educational and training programs.
Ashley Mariano
Trainer
Ashley Marano is passionate about helping others and learning how to create ways for all people to receive the quality of health care and services they deserve.
Melgret Valdez
Trainer
Melgret Valdez strives to continuously achieve her goal of reaching out to vulnerable populations to ensure they are well-informed about resources that can benefit their health and well-being.
LyVesha Franklin
Trainer
LyVesha Franklin (Queen Tay) is a Community Health Worker (CHW) and takes great pride in serving humanity.