Meet Kerry Guido, JDC’s Educational Programs Director

As Educational Programs Director, Kerry Guido oversees the JDC’s educational programs for K–12, college, and law school. But that description barely scratches the surface of all she does to support the BASF community. Kerry matches 1L students and hosts for the Open Doors Job Shadow Program (see sidebar), coordinates the Bay Area Law Student Career Fair, oversees the Bay Area Underserved Law Student Scholarship Program, and recruits volunteers for the Mock Trial program.

Cliff Yin, who was featured in this column in 2024, suggested we celebrate Kerry for “tirelessly” supporting the mock trial program. “Kerry organizes all of the competitions, reaches out for potential judges and scorers, and otherwise is an invaluable part of the program,” he said. “I know several others who could speak to her accomplishments, including members of the mock trial committee.”

Get better acquainted with Kerry through her answers to our questions below, then learn more about the many impactful programs she runs and how you might contribute.

BASF: What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

KG: My leadership coach taught me that if the job/role doesn’t scare you a bit, then you won’t grow. Always strive to keep a growth mindset in every aspect of your life. Be a life-long learner.

BASF: What do you feel is your greatest achievement? 

KG: From a professional standpoint, I am proud to have run for office in 2018. That year I ran for school board in my local school district and won. In 2021, I published a book called Inclusive Leadership: Opening Doors for Marginalized Groups (as Kerry Rosado). From a fitness standpoint, I’m proud to have run the San Francisco Marathon in 2017 and a Spartan race in 2019 at the Giants Stadium. In addition, I’m very proud to be a mom to two amazing boys on the autism spectrum.

BASF: When life gets tough, how do you pick yourself up?

KG: For self-care, I treat myself to something good each day. I make time for fitness, my family, friends, and my pet bunny. His name is Blue Sky. I prioritize sleep, stay well-hydrated, eat balanced meals, take walks during my lunch break, and listen to music, books on Audible, and podcasts about diversity and inclusion.

And I have a good support system. I co-lead a single parents’ group at church and am on the board for a meetup group for single parents. I’m also a person of faith and believe in the power of prayer to stay strong and face difficult challenges.

BASF: Where is your happy place?

KG: The beach. I love the sounds of the waves and find them soothing. I love the wind in my hair, the texture of the sand, and smell of the ocean. My favorite trail is Lands End.

BASF: Can you share a little-known fact about you?

KG: I love salsa, bachata, tango, ballroom, lindy hop, and country line dancing. I even performed in the San Francisco Carnaval twice: one year I danced an Afro-Cuban dance, and another year I did a Brazilian samba. Dancing feeds my soul.