Nancy Rose Dufford and Jennifer Allan Goldman (Photo – PEN)
The Pasadena Education Network (PEN) is marking its 20th anniversary as it prepares for a major leadership transition: Executive Director Nancy Rose Dufford will retire at the end of the school year after 18 years of service, and current Board Chair Jennifer Allan Goldman will step into the role.
During Dufford’s tenure, PEN grew from a small grassroots effort into a trusted regional resource for families in Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre. Membership now exceeds 2,000, and the organization has supported more than 6,500 parents through key school transitions while introducing thousands of families to local campuses through its signature school tours.
Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco, Ed.D., praised PEN’s influence, noting that the organization has “helped bring families into PUSD, elevated the family voice, and supported opportunities for students.”
Founded in 2003 by preschool parents seeking firsthand insight into Pasadena Unified schools, PEN quickly became known for providing accurate information and meaningful connections. By 2006, it had incorporated as a nonprofit and launched school tours and fact sheets, resources that helped set a new districtwide standard for campus access.
Programs That Shape Family Engagement
Under Dufford’s leadership, PEN expanded its programming to support families from preschool through high school. Offerings include “Choosing an Elementary School,” “Getting Ready for Kindergarten,” and transition programs for middle and high school.
PEN has also played a significant role in shaping district policy. The organization partnered with Pasadena Unified to improve the Open Enrollment process, contributed to revisions of the district’s homework policy, and helped develop transition plans for specialized programs such as Dual Language Immersion. Through surveys and engagement efforts, PEN provided parent perspectives for the district’s Master Plan.
Dufford also championed initiatives that amplified parent voices. PEN launched Parents as Leaders training, expanded outreach to families of English learners and students with special needs, and collaborated with local partners to educate real estate professionals about public school options. Its Rodney E. Goodwin Memorial Scholarship has awarded $10,000 to Pasadena Unified seniors.
A New Chapter Under Jennifer Allan Goldman
Allan Goldman, who has served on PEN’s board for nine years and chaired it for the past six, brings deep experience in public education advocacy. Dufford expressed confidence in her successor, saying, “Jennifer’s leadership on the board has been thoughtful and strategic. I believe our network of parents will thrive and grow with her at the helm.”
As PEN reflects on two decades of service, Allan Goldman emphasized both continuity and renewal: “I’ve learned so much from Nancy since I joined the Board. I look forward to putting that knowledge to good use for our communities and public schools.”
A Community Built on Trust and Connection
For many families, PEN has been a first point of contact with public education. Board Vice Chair Tiffany Hwang described the organization as a “constant, trusted resource” that not only supports school decisions but also builds friendships and community.
As Dufford prepares to step away, PEN stands as a testament to the power of informed, engaged families. With Allan Goldman stepping into leadership, the organization remains committed to its founding belief: when families have access to clear, credible information, they can make the best choices for their children—and strengthen public schools for everyone.
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