Archives: Staff Bios

Ismael Bermudez

Officer Bermudez was born in East Los Angeles and grew up in Pomona, California. He is the oldest of four brothers and two sisters. Pomona was a very difficult and diverse community to grow up in. During Officer Bermudez’s adolescence, he constantly had to overcome the pressure of alcohol, drugs, and gangs.

After graduating high school, he attended Mt. San Antonio College and Hope University. Officer Bermudez also began working with kids of a very young age. He was a sports coach, physical education teacher, and an athletic director for multiple non-profit Christian schools. After approximately six years of coaching and teaching, he managed multiple sports and activities for various summer camps of different age groups.

Officer Bermudez has never forgotten his desire to become a police officer, which has resonated with him since high school. In 2016, Officer Bermudez left California to start his career in law enforcement, where he was hired by Topeka, Kansas Police Department. After three years of service, he decided to come back to his home state of California. He was hired by the San Diego Police Department in 2019, where he has been continuing his law enforcement career. In 2023, he decided to combine his law enforcement career with his love of working with kids by joining STAR/PAL. Officer Bermudez is excited for this new career path that he is embarking on.

Andy Wiese

Andy has been an active member of the San Diego community since 2001 and was introduced to STAR/PAL by fellow little league coach and former board chair, Jimmy Tabb.

Fueled by STAR/PAL’s mission to foster trust between law enforcement and young people, Andy was captivated by the unique collaboration and remained dedicated to the cause during his tenure on the Board. His commitment to bridging the gap between communities and law enforcement is unwavering.

In his capacity within STAR/PAL, he advocates for its mission, serving as a liaison between stakeholders and spearheading initiatives to enhance the organization’s effectiveness.

Outside his professional pursuits, Andy finds joy in cheering on his kids at their athletic events, and attending concerts and sports matches.

Emmanuel Lopez

Emmanuel joined the STAR/PAL team in 2022 as the Program Coordinator. Emmanuel graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s in economics and furthered his education to Point Loma Nazarene University where he received his Master’s in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport Management. Prior to STAR/PAL, Emmanuel has had experience working for non-profits organizations and sports teams, that have included the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Padres, the San Diego Loyal. He grew up being a part of STAR/PAL’s programs as a youth and now wants to give back to the community that has helped him throughout his education and career. Emmanuel’s passion is helping the community and sports and that is why he wanted to join STAR/PAL, as he wanted to grow the sports programs and make an impact in the lives of the kids. Emmanuel coordinates the sports clinics/events and after school programming. He enjoys working with the kids in the programs and strives to create memorable experiences for the kids through the programming/events.

When not at work, Emmanuel enjoys going to sporting events and spending time with friends and family. He is a huge soccer fan and although he was not able to become a soccer player, he hopes to make an impact with sports in the community.

Melissa Lucero

Melissa joined the STAR/PAL team in 2022 as the Program Manager. Growing up she always envisioned wanting to help others and getting involved in the community.  Melissa chased her passion and graduated from San Diego City College with an Associate Degree in Science and furthered her education to San Diego State where she received her Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. She enjoys seeing youth learn and grow through different experiences and opportunities that come their way and given a chance to engage that they might have not had the opportunity to before. Forming positive relationships, making an impact on an individual’s life, and connecting with youth and families is something Melissa truly enjoys.  

Originally from the Bay area, Melissa moved to San Diego at the start of high school. Apart from her studies, she enjoys spending with family, working out, and eating some authentic food.  

Mayra Nunez

Mayra joined the team as Director of Community Relations in 2020. She came to STAR/PAL from the San Diego Probation Department where she organized all community events such as Coffee with Probation, Back to School Events and Holiday Giveaways.

A San Diego native, Mayra bridges the gap with her long-standing community partnerships.  She has over 20 years of experience in serving communities in San Diego county.