About us
About Us

Creating Access. Inspiring Growth. Transforming Futures.

Our Story

Founded in 2015, BCAUSEICAN was born from a shared vision between co-founders Ron Nicholson and Michael Batts. As former college roommates and seasoned technology professionals approaching retirement, they recognized that minority representation in STEM had seen little progress since they first entered the workforce. Determined to help change that reality, Ron and Michael set out to create pathways to opportunity through technology education, mentorship, and community engagement. Their goal was simple but powerful: ensure that underserved communities have access to the skills, resources, and support needed to thrive in a technology-driven world. In 2017, BCAUSEICAN launched its first coding program at the Shaw Community Center in Washington, D.C. Twenty students in grades 2–5 learned the fundamentals of Scratch programming, planting the seeds for a movement that would grow far beyond a single classroom.

Today, BCAUSEICAN serves youth, adults, seniors, educators, and communities through innovative programs in coding, STEM, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital literacy. Along the way, we've expanded our impact through bilingual programming, virtual learning initiatives, strategic partnerships, educator training, and industry-recognized certifications. In 2025 alone, BCAUSEICAN launched 19 programs and reached more than 700 students. While we're proud of how far we've come, our mission is far from complete. Every day, we work to bridge the digital divide, create access to opportunity, and empower the next generation of innovators, leaders, and lifelong learners. Because opportunity changes lives—and everyone deserves the chance to succeed.

Our Leadership

Ron Nicholson

Ron Nicholson

Co-Founder, Executive Director

Michael Batts

Michael Batts

Co-Founder, Board of Directors, Organizational Strategist

Falisa Peoples

Falisa Peoples

Chair of Board of Directors

Suzanne Bronheim

Suzanne Bronheim

Board Member, Grant Writer, Strategic Planning Consultant

Nancy Hines

Nancy Hines

Board of Directors

Dr. Demetria Gartrell

Dr. Demetria Gartrell

Board of Directors

Masiullah Zarghoon

Masiullah Zarghoon

Program Operations Manager

Bianca Bullock

Bianca Bullock

Marketing Manager

Maria Flores

Maria Flores

Program Manager

Sarah Steele

Sarah Steele

Operations Manager

Stefany Alicea

Stefany Alicea

IT Manager, Workforce Development Coordinator

Yajaira Iglesias

Yajaira Iglesias

Community Outreach Coordinator

Our Mission

Our leadership is dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening communities through technology, education, mentorship, and opportunity. We are committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire growth, build confidence, and prepare every generation for success moving forward.

Our Vision

Our vision is a world where every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to the technology, education, and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital age.

Our Core Values

Opportunity

We believe everyone deserves access to the tools, education, and resources needed to succeed.

Empowerment

We equip individuals with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to create brighter futures for themselves and their communities.

Inclusion

We are committed to ensuring equitable access to STEM, coding, AI, and digital literacy for all.

Community

We believe lasting change happens when people come together to support, mentor, and uplift one another.