(New Ambassador – Meet Michael Serranía Published 10/22/2026) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome our newest Board Ambassador – Michael Serranía. We asked Michael a few questions to get to know him.
Tell us about your background, your personal and professional life.
“I have had the privilege of serving in Catholic education for the past 19 years, including 15 years as a classroom teacher and four years as principal of a Catholic middle school in San Jose. Currently, I serve as a Spanish teacher at Moreau Catholic High School in Hayward, where I continue to find great joy in working with young people and supporting their families.”
“Beyond the classroom, I have remained committed to community service through past fundraising efforts at my local parish in Morgan Hill and my current service on the finance committee at my daughter’s school. Throughout my career, education has been more than a profession; it has been a calling rooted in service, mentorship, and helping young people discover their potential both inside and outside the classroom.”
Why FTSV?
“When I began exploring opportunities to serve my community in a meaningful way, First Tee immediately came to mind.”
“My connection to its mission is deeply personal. When I was in eighth grade, my school could no longer offer athletics. Losing those opportunities meant losing something much greater than sports. It meant fewer opportunities to belong, build friendships, develop confidence, and experience what it means to be part of a team.”
“Years later, as an educator, I witnessed several of my former students become involved with First Tee. I saw firsthand how the organization helped them grow not only in the game of golf but also in character, confidence, and valuable life skills. Their experiences reminded me of the opportunities I wish had been available to me when I was younger.”
“What draws me most to First Tee is its commitment to mentorship and the belief that young people grow through meaningful relationships and experiences. Serving as a Board Ambassador allows me to continue doing what I love most: supporting young people, investing in their futures, and giving back to the community that helped shape who I am.”
“It is an honor to remain connected to my hometown and contribute my time, talents, and experience to an organization whose mission I genuinely believe in.”
All board members, staff, coaches and instructors see themselves as Mentors. Do you have any memorable mentors?
“Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to have several memorable mentors who have helped shape my personal and professional journey, particularly during my high school years.”
“One of my most influential mentors was my social justice and morality teacher at Bellarmine College Preparatory. He challenged me to look beyond the classroom and develop a worldview grounded in service to others. Through his example, I came to appreciate what it truly means to be a person for and with others, a principle that has guided much of my work in education and community service.”
“Another important mentor, Brian, was instrumental in helping me navigate the college application process and later find my footing in mortgage finance early in my professional life. He was a trusted sounding board who offered guidance, encouragement, and perspective when I needed it most.”
“What makes these relationships especially meaningful is that they have endured over time. I still enjoy reconnecting with my mentors, sharing life’s developments, and reflecting on how their guidance continues to influence me.”
“As I begin this next chapter with First Tee, my hope is to offer young people that same sense of encouragement, belonging, and possibility. I know firsthand how a mentor’s investment of time and genuine interest can make a lasting difference. If I can provide even a small measure of the guidance and support that others have so generously given me, I will consider my service to First Tee especially meaningful.”
Volunteer your time and talent as an Ambassador just like Michael. Ambassadors coach, cultivate donors, fundraise for events or campaigns, represent FTSV at outside events, and work on special projects with the CEO.