PURA VIDA PATHWAYS TEAM
BOARDMEMBERS
Chazz Polizzotto
President and Co-Founder
Costa Rica didn't just give Chazz a home for five years—it gave him a life. Among the cloud forests and coastal towns, he found love, met his wife Jessica, and discovered a country whose generosity of spirit changed him forever.
​
Today, as a loan officer helping families achieve the dream of homeownership in the United States, Chazz understands the transformative power of opportunity. But his heart remains in the mountains and villages of Costa Rica, where he witnessed firsthand how education can lift entire communities.
​
This organization is his way of honoring a simple truth: Costa Rica gave him everything. Now, he gives back—one scholarship, one student, one future at a time. Because the country that opened its arms to him deserves his commitment to opening doors for its children.
​
Where education equals hope, gratitude becomes action.
Jessica Castro Vega
Vice President and Co-Founder
Jessica was born and raised in the small coastal community of Playa Tambor, Costa Rica — a place where strong values, family ties, and simple beauty shaped her outlook on life. Growing up, Jessica learned early the importance of hard work, perseverance, and community support.
​
After getting married, Jessica moved to the United States, carrying with her the memories and dreams of her hometown. Although life took her far from Playa Tambor, her heart never left. She remained deeply connected to the young people in her community — especially those who dream of continuing their education but face financial and social barriers.
​
Driven by compassion and a strong belief that education can change lives, Jessica has dedicated herself to encouraging and supporting juveniles from her hometown to pursue opportunities, build confidence, and become the best version of themselves. Her mission is to help create pathways to higher education so future generations can become professionals, leaders, and positive forces who make a difference not only in Costa Rica, but in the world.
​
Through her work and commitment, Jessica hopes to inspire hope, open doors, and remind every young person that their dreams are possible — no matter where they come from.
Lori Kagan
Secretary
Lori brings a wealth of leadership and a "service-first" mindset to our Board of Directors. Her professional journey is defined by her ability to lead complex initiatives with precision and heart. With an extensive background in medical marketing, public relations, and patient advocacy, she will apply her marketing skills to help drive awareness and fundraising efforts.
​
As a board member, Lori brings a unique blend of strategic rigor and empathy to our mission. She has gratitude for the times spent in Costa Rica, Lori fell in love with the “Pura Vida” spirit their resilience, warmth, and joy of the people she met there.
​
She is proud to support her brother, Chazz, and sister-in-law, Jessica in building this legacy. Lori is committed to bringing opportunity and hope for Costa Rican students by supporting Pura Vida’s mission where education equals hope.
Doug Skinner
Chief Financial Officer
Doug is a Board Member and CFO of Pura Vida Pathways. After visiting Costa Rica for the first time in 2023, he quickly fell in love with the country's people, culture, and emphasis on quality of life.
What began as a single trip has grown into a deep personal connection, including frequent visits and plans to spend more time in the country.
​
Originally from Chicago and now based in Saint Petersburg, Florida, Doug is passionate about expanding access to education and is honored to support Pura Vida Pathways' mission of providing full-ride scholarships to Costa Rican students.
He lives with his partner and their dog, Hamilton, and looks forward to continuing his work alongside the communities Pura Vida Pathways serves.
Every Act of Giving Starts a Story
Many talented students in Costa Rica are ready to succeed but lack the financial support to move forward. Your donation helps remove that barrier and gives students the chance to pursue higher education with confidence.
​
Every gift creates hope that reaches far beyond one classroom.