TESSA FOUNDATION
OUR TEAM
Kristena Prater
Founder | Director
Mother, activist, poet, writer, storyteller, artist, and Director for Tessa Foundation. She is a practicing Death Doula; consulting and supporting people experiencing grief, loss, mental challenges, and disabilities.
She developed a technique called “Chayo Movement” that helps balance the body, mind (emotional competency) through routine. She is effective in distilling personal reform through her advocacy
Michael Meade
President of the Board
Michael was born and raised in New Mexico. He holds a degree in Sustainability with Connecticut College. He has certifications in organic farming and permaculture. He has become a sought after educator and speaker around the country with his unique approach. He works with multi-media arts (music, dance, visual arts & film) as a vehicle for demonstrating ecological concepts, and produces youth concerts and events.
Suhana Chaulagain
Digital Content Creator
Suhana is a Nepali medical student passionate about public service, the arts, environmental stewardship, and social justice. She met Kristena, Director of The Tessa Foundation, at the Himalayan Literary Festival in May 2026, where a shared commitment to youth empowerment and social impact led her to interview for the Foundation's Social Media position. She looks forward to bringing her creativity and community-engagement experience to the Foundation's global initiatives.
Alona Watchman
October 24, 1985 — December 17, 2025
A Native American woman from the tribes of Okanagan, Shuswap and Navajo. She served in the past as an intern to the Tessa Horan Foundation back in 2013. In 2025 she returned to work for the Tessa Foundation because of her interest in the various initiatives of the organization. Her specialties were in communications, marketing and graphic design. Alona is since passed away and still remains remembered and honored in our hearts at Tessa Foundation.