Isabel Bueso and Betsy Biern to Keynote the Philanthropy Awards

The East Bay Philanthropy Awards will feature a keynote from Isabel Bueso and Betsy Biern. 

Isabel Bueso was 7 years old when she legally immigrated with her family to the United States from Guatemala to participate in a clinical trial for a rare genetic disease. She is now 24 years old and an alumna of Acalanes High School and CSU East Bay where she served as the Director of Associated Students and graduated summa cum laude. She is a dance instructor, scholarship fund founder, advocate for the rare disease community, Make-A-Wish volunteer, and inspiration to many.

On August 7 Isabel was faced with an unexpected challenge when the Trump administration abruptly ended the deferred action program that enables people like her to receive critical care and participate in medical research in the United States. She was ordered to leave the country in 33 days or be deported.

In the face of losing lifesaving medical treatment at USCF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland, Isabel spoke out. She appeared before Congress and inspired advocates from across the country to join the cause. As a result of her courage and leadership, Isabel is no longer facing the immediate threat of deportation.

Joining Bueso on stage for the keynote address is the President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area, Betsy Biern. Under Betsy’s leadership, the organization has granted a record number of wishes, made the move from San Francisco to Oakland, and celebrated its 35th Anniversary.

Previously, Biern was senior vice president and chief development officer of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland. She also served as the executive director of the American Asthma Foundation, vice president for development at The Brookings Institution, and regional vice president with Community Counselling Service Co., LLC.

“Isabel brings a renewed sense of hope and joy to kids facing health setbacks and disabilities,” said Biern. “I’m honored to join her in delivering the keynote address.”

The 9th Annual East Bay Philanthropy Awards will be hosted by the East Bay Leadership Council in partnership with Wells Fargo and the Sanford Institute for Philanthropy at JFK University.