Welcome Artem Tretiakov to the RBBB Governing Board!

Artem smiles at the cameraJoin us in welcoming our newest Read Better Be Better (RBBB) Governing Board member, Artem Tretiakov!

Artem joined RBBB in 2014, before we had even run our first pilot. Since then, Artem has continued to provide wise and diligent counsel – designing budgets, verifying financial processes, assisting with audits, and generally taking care to make sure that RBBB is efficient, effective, and strong. Additionally, Artem has helped generate significant revenue – connecting our fundraising team with grants available in his sphere of influence.

RBBB is thrilled that Artem is a member of the board and hopes our community will join us in celebrating his continued commitment and passion.

Tell us about yourself.

“I am an accountant by trade and currently work at Silicon Valley Bank, providing technical accounting guidance to U.S. and global operations. I live in Mesa with my wife, a three-year-old daughter, and another daughter on the way. We have a small urban garden and enjoy spending time together.”

What first led you to volunteer for RBBB? What led you to want to join the board?

“I grew up in Ukraine, where basic education is available to most everyone. When I moved to the U.S., I was surprised to learn that such things as poor literacy hold many young Americans back. I am still in disbelief that it is not common sense that access to education elevates bright minds and empowers them to serve their communities. Therefore, when I found an opportunity to apply my skills to help educators fight these issues, it was an easy choice to make.

I started volunteering for RBBB when it was still a pilot project, and never looked back. Today, I am proud to have an opportunity to support RBBB’s mission as a member of the governing board.”

What is your favorite book?

Winnie the Pooh is one of the books that I love reading with my family—and I hope they love reading with me. It has amazing jokes, but what I love most about it is the sense of wonder the stories instill. Perhaps that is why I believe that it is one of the greatest literary works out there.”

Welcome, Artem! RBBB is lucky to have you.