AVANCE has named Dr. Magda Villarreal as its new Rio Grande Valley Executive Director. Dr. Villarreal will lead the organization’s local operations, expansion efforts, and community engagement initiatives.
In partnership with Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors and UnidosUS, AVANCE hosted a pivotal roundtable discussion titled “Building a Brighter Future: Empowering Latino Families through Early Childhood Education.”
AVANCE San Antonio is thrilled to announce the opening of its brand-new Early Head Start (EHS) center located in Vestal. This milestone has been eagerly anticipated by the team, who have dedicated considerable time and effort to bring this project to fruition. The center is already buzzing with activity, as children have begun to explore … Read more
AVANCE is proud to announce its official membership in the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT).
AVANCE partners with the ICONIQ Impact Education & Economic Mobility Co-Lab as a grantee, committing to enhance education and economic opportunities for Latino families across the U.S.
Patrick McDonnell, CEO of VTX1 Companies, delivered remarks at AVANCE’s 50th Anniversary celebration in the Rio Grande Valley.
Discover the transformative impact of early education in the Latino community in an article from AVANCE CEO Dr. Teresa Granillo. Explore how targeted support can unlock potential, overcome challenges, and pave the way for a brighter future.
The Rio Grande Guardian spoke with AVANCE CEO Dr. Granillo about our ambitious plans for growth and increased community impact in the area.
Dr. Teresa Granillo, AVANCE CEO, recently authored an article on bilingualism and dual-language learning as a member of the Newsweek Expert Forum, “Uplift Bilingual Children by Dispelling Myths and Improving Dual-language Learning.” In the article, Dr. Granillo draws on recent research and AVANCE’s work with advocacy organization UnidosUS to describe how negative attitudes toward bilingualism impact … Read more
In 1964, the US government, driven by new research on the impact of poverty, particularly on education, tasked an expert panel with developing a program to support the development of disadvantaged preschool children. What emerged was the Head Start program, initially launched in 1965 as a summer catch-up program to improve school readiness. A year … Read more
Dr. Teresa Granillo
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Teresa Granillo is the Chief Executive Officer of AVANCE. As CEO, she sets the vision and strategic plan for the organization and provides guidance and oversight to daily operations. She engages key stakeholders and advocates and elevates the mission of AVANCE. A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Granillo earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona and advanced degrees from the University of Michigan, including Master of Science degrees in Social Work and Psychology, and a dual Ph.D. in Social Work and Psychology.
Prior to AVANCE, Dr. Granillo served six years as Executive Director of Con Mi MADRE, another two-generation organization that supports young Latinas on the path to higher education. Before Con Mi MADRE, Dr. Granillo was a tenure-track professor at the University of Texas at Austin, Steve Hicks School of Social Work, where she received the Lora Lee Teaching Award.
Dr. Granillo is also active in her community, serving on the National Advisory Council for the Hogg Mental Health Foundation and the Board of Directors of UnidosUS. Driven by her personal experiences, she is a passionate advocate for education and the well-being of Latina/o children and families. Her leadership has been recognized in many arenas including being recognized with an Austin 40 Under 40 award. As a Latina raised by a single mother, Dr. Granillo knows firsthand how education can end the cycle of poverty and has dedicated her career to ensuring that all individuals have access to high-quality education.
Elida Gonzales
Chief Financial Officer
Elida serves as Chief Financial Officer of AVANCE. Elida joined AVANCE in 1998 and has spent most of her career in leadership roles in accounting, finance and business development. She was born and raised in the community where AVANCE began and has seen first-hand how the Parent-Child Education Program (PCEP) has impacted the lives of those in her community. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from St. Mary’s University and her Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Sonia Dominguez
Chief Operating Officer
Sonia Dominguez is the Chief Operating Officer at AVANCE. In addition to overseeing administrative functions and daily operations, Sonia directs the development and implementation of strategies that ensure AVANCE employees thrive and organizational goals are met, strengthening the organization’s ability to carry out its mission. Sonia began her career as a middle school math teacher in El Paso, TX, went on to serve in various leadership roles in both urban and rural public school districts in Texas, and led systems-change efforts at a collective impact organization in Central Texas. Sonia earned bachelor's and master’s degrees in math education from the University of Texas at El Paso. She is the granddaughter of Mexican immigrants, and her personal experiences as a Latina, a Head Start graduate, and a first-generation college graduate from a Texas border town inform her work and contribute to her passion to advance equitable outcomes for Latino families from under-resourced communities.
Alex Chandler
Chief Communications Officer
Alex is the Chief Communications Officer for AVANCE Inc. As a first-generation college student, Alex is passionate about the AVANCE mission and believes in the power of education as the great equalizer and wants to see the systemic inequities eliminated. Through his role as CCO, Alex is responsible for leading the organization’s communications, marketing, branding, and community engagement efforts. Alex has more than 15 years’ experience in communications and marketing for educational non-profits. Before joining AVANCE, Alex worked for WGTE PBS, Trellis (formerly Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation), Austin ISD, and E3 Alliance, leading various marketing and community initiatives while also doing graphic design and video and photography. Alex received his Bachelor of Visual Communication Technology from Bowling Green State in Bowling Green, Ohio, and studied art, photography, and graphic design at the Studio Arts Center International in Florence, Italy.
Melanie Brewster
Senior Director of Head Start & Early Head Start Partnerships
In her role as the Senior Director of Head Start & Early Head Start Partnerships for AVANCE Inc., Melanie oversees the organization’s HS/EHS programs in the Rio Grande Valley in addition to working closely with the program team to integrate PCEP into HS/EHS operations. Before joining the AVANCE team, Melanie spent 10 years with Acelero Learning and Shine Early Learning in different roles that provided her a wealth of experience in the management of HS/EHS programs, including monitoring and compliance, family and community engagement, curriculum implementation, and training and professional development. Melanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Temple University and a Master of Arts in Urban Studies and Community Development from Eastern University.
Ana Lorena Carrasco
AVANCE-North Texas Executive Director
Prior to her current role as the Executive Director, Ana Lorena Carrasco served as the Senior Director of Curriculum and Implementation for the AVANCE National Office, where she played a vital role in the development, review cycle, and quality improvement of AVANCE curricula, programs, and services. Before joining the AVANCE National office, Ana Lorena served the communities of North Texas for more than ten years through various roles at AVANCE-North Texas. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering from Instituto Tecnologico de Saltillo in Saltillo Coahuila, Mexico, and a Master’s in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language from Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana in Puerto Rico.
Luz Flores
AVANCE-Houston - Executive Director
As Executive Director for AVANCE-Houston, Luz Flores has nearly 30 years of leadership experience with national nonprofit organizations. Throughout her career, Luz has successfully steered organizations, such as the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto, the United Way of Greater Houston and SER Jobs for Progress, through periods of substantial growth and transition. Luz joined AVANCE-Houston in 2009, serving in several management positions, and assumed her current role in 2016. Originally from Puerto Rico, Luz holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Masters in Non-Profit Management from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio Texas, and a Human Resources Certificate from Rice University.
Susan Thompson
AVANCE-San Antonio - Executive Director
Thompson brings 28 years of leadership experience in nonprofit business, social services, and healthcare sectors. She most recently served as the Vice President – Grants, Programs, and Services at the San Antonio Area Foundation. Susan is actively involved with a wide range of professional and nonprofit organizations, including the Masters Leadership Program, John L. Santikos Charitable Foundation, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas. A native San Antonian, Thompson holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology/English from The University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Business Administration from Rice University.
Cristina Garza
AVANCE-Austin - Executive Director
Prior to joining AVANCE-Austin as Executive Director, Cristina served as Director of Social Impact for the Mission Economic Development Corporation (EDC) where she curated and led all STEAM and entrepreneurship initiatives. She was named Code.Org's 2019 Champion of Computer Science. She is also a 2017 Next City Vanguard and named by CityLab Latino one of the Top 20 Young Civic Leaders of 2017. Before her career in economic development, Cristina worked in education at museums in New York City including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Rubin of Museum of Art, the Brooklyn Historical Society, and the Brooklyn Museum. She holds a BA from New York University, and an MA from Syracuse University where she received the Florence Graduate Fellowship.
Vanessa Maldonado
AVANCE-North Texas - Executive Director
Vanessa Maldonado is the Executive Director of AVANCE-North Texas. Maldonado joined AVANCE-North Texas with a degree in nonprofit management from St. Edward’s University and more than a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership and development. Most recently, she served as the Chief Engagement Officer for Easterseals, a nonprofit organization that promotes independence and creates opportunities for people with disabilities. In this previous role, Maldonado managed the organization’s fundraising activities, retail operations, communications, marketing, and advocacy in Central and North Texas.
Lissette Rodriguez
As Managing Director, Portfolio Strategy & Management for Blue Meridian, Lissette provides strategic and executional leadership on critical business priorities and leads innovation efforts to expand Blue Meridian’s work. She explores new philanthropic investment opportunities, leads due diligence on potential Blue Meridian investees and manages relationships with current investees. Prior to joining Blue Meridian, Lissette served as Vice President and Chief Program Officer of the Edna McConnell Clark Foundation and as Managing Director of PropelNext, EMCF’s initiative to sharpen the skills and advance the effectiveness of promising youth-serving nonprofits. Before joining the Edna McConnell Clark Foundation in 2010, she spent 12 years, the last six as Senior Vice President for Field Development, at YouthBuild USA. Her previous experience also includes roles as a senior program officer and director of the Fund for the Homeless at the Boston Foundation; as the founding executive director of Casa Nueva Vida, a shelter for homeless Latina women and their children; and as a contributing editor of Nonprofit Quarterly. Lissette holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Boston University and a master’s in organizational development from Fielding Graduate University.
Dr. Robert H. McCallister
Secretary/Parliamentarian
Robert H. (Bob) McCallister graduated from Brown University in 1972 with a PhD in Geological Sciences. He was a fellow at the Carnegie Institution of Washington and a professor of Geosciences at Purdue University until 1981, at which time he joined ExxonMobil’s Upstream Research Company. Until his retirement from an executive position with ExxonMobil in 2003, Bob held several jobs at ExxonMobil including Sr. Technology Advisor to the Executive Committees of the Exploration and Research Companies. Currently he serves on the United Way of Greater Houston’s Bright Beginnings Advisory Committee, is on the Board of Lone Star College Foundation and is a member of Executive Committee and Board of Children’s Museum of Houston. Before joining the National Board of AVANCE, Inc. in 2018, Bob served as an active member on the AVANCE-Houston Board of Directors.
Ron Oran
Treasurer
Ron is a litigation attorney with Foley & Lardner LLP in Houston, Texas. His experience is in commercial litigation, particularly as it relates to disputes involving the purchase, sale and operation of energy companies and assets. Ron is a former chairman of the board of the AVANCE-Houston Chapter and has long been a thought partner of the National Board. Ron is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the United Way of Greater Houston and serves on the Board of Directors of the Children’s Museum of Houston. Ron holds a BA degree from Northwestern State University, and a master’s degree in philosophy and a law degree from Tulane University.
Manuel G. Berrelez
Manuel is a Partner with the law firm of Paul Hastings LLP in Dallas. He is a trial and regulatory enforcement lawyer whose practice focuses on business disputes, financial regulatory matters, and data privacy and cybersecurity matters. Manuel has been named a “Top Latino Lawyer” by Latino Leaders Magazine, and he has also been named one of 20 "Extraordinary Minority Lawyers in Texas" by Texas Lawyers Magazine. Manuel has been involved with numerous educated-related activities including service on the boards of the Dallas Winds, Educate Dallas, and the Dallas Hispanic Law Foundation. Manuel grew up in Pearsall, Texas, where he attended Head Start as a young child and quarterbacked his high school football team. He holds a B.A. from Yale College and a J.D. from Yale Law School.
Hilda C. Galvan
Hilda is the Partner-in-Charge of the Dallas office of Jones Day. Hilda is a nationally recognized trial lawyer who focuses on complex intellectual property litigation. She places a high priority on community service, serving as Chair Elect of Texas Women’s Foundation, and as Trustee of the University of Texas School of Law, SMU Lyle School of Engineering , and the Dallas Hispanic Law Foundation, among others. Hilda was named one of "The Most Powerful Business Leaders" in Dallas-Fort Worth by D CEO. Hilda holds a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at El Paso and a J.D. degree from the University of Texas at Austin.
Marlo Michaeli
Marlo is an Audit Partner with KPMG in Dallas, Texas. She began her career with KPMG, and after brief stints at Fidelity National and Arum Technologies, she returned to KPMG as one of the leaders in the audit practice. She was an active member of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, Women in Business and serves on the Board of Levine Academy. Marlo’s family was one of the original settlers in New Mexico, and her mother is of both Mexican and Native American heritage. Marlo received her BBA in Accounting from the Red McCombs School of Business and the University of Texas, Austin.
Dr. Claudia Kramer Santamaria
Dr. Kramer Santamaria is the former Director of the Anita Uphaus Early Childhood Center, an early childhood dual language school for pre-k and Kindergarten students in Austin, Texas. Dr. Kramer Santamaria has over 20 years of experience in education ranging from being an elementary school Principal, to overseeing teacher training and education, to being the Director of Parent Programs. She is bilingual, and earned her Doctorate Degree in Education from Texas State University, a Master’s Degree in Administration from Tarleton State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Bilingual Education from St. Edward’s University.
Sofia Ramón
Sofia Ramón is a Founding Member and Co-Manager for Ramon Worthington Nicolas & Cantu, PLLC, a majority women and minority owned (NAMWOLF) law firm devoted to civil litigation, including complex commercial litigation. She has been practicing law for almost three decades and proudly serves on the State Bar of Texas Litigation Council. She was inducted into the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) and serves as the current Texas Association of Defense Counsel (TADC) Vice President of Membership. Sofia currently serves as a Director for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA of Hidalgo) and was previously involved in South Texas College’s Puente Mentor Program, designed to encourage the continued education and leadership development of academically underserved students.
Dr. Luzelma G. Canales
Chair
Dr. Luzelma G. Canales, formerly a member of BranchED’s Board of Directors, is BranchED's Chief of Staff. Dr. Canales served as a community college and university administrator for over twenty-five years. She led numerous institutional community college national reform initiatives including Achieving the Dream, Breaking Through, and several with Excelencia in Education.
Luzelma's experience includes building sophisticated models to leverage existing funding streams to build sustainability for innovative, effective programs and services. Prior to coming to BranchED, Dr. Canales served as the Senior Associate Vice President for Student Success for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). She served as executive director of RGV FOCUS, a collective impact initiative designed to transform college readiness, access, and success across the four-county Rio Grande Valley region.
Dr. Melanie Johnson
Dr. Melanie Johnson is the President and CEO of Collaborative for Children. Prior to this role, she served as the president and CEO of the John P. McGovern Museum of Health and Medical Science (The Health Museum) in Houston. Dr. Johnson also previously served as the director of the education department at NASA’s Space Center Houston, head of the department for development education at Galveston College, and director of faculty development for The Art Institute of Houston. Dr. Johnson earned a BA in International Business/French from Auburn University, a Master of Hospitality Management from the University of Houston, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas Southern University. She has received numerous awards for educational and professional excellence, and was named one of the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Thought Leaders.
Ryan Ramirez
As Vice President of IT Infrastructure and International for Lockheed Martin Corporation, Ryan Ramirez leads the corporation's information technology infrastructure team and portfolio and provides global IT oversight. His more than 25 years of IT experience ranges from managing and transforming infrastructure to leading application development for global and enterprise operations. Previously, Ryan served as VP of Infrastructure and Operations at Kimberly Clark and as Sr. Director of Global IT Infrastructure and Operations at Avery Dennison. He also served in a variety of global IT leadership roles for manufacturer and retailer, VF Corporation. Ryan earned his M.B.A., with a concentration in International Business, from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a Bachelor's degree in Electronic Systems Engineering from ITESM at Monterrey, N.L. Mexico.
Maria del Rosario Garza
Rosario is the Parent Policy Council Chair for the AVANCE Head Start (HS) and Early Head Start (EHS) programs in Starr and Zapata Counties. A Starr County native, Rosario is a stay-at-home mother of four, who loves the HS/EHS programs and what they do for children and the community. Her three eldest children are HS graduates, and her youngest is currently enrolled in EHS and will be transitioning to the HS program soon. She is also a participant in the AVANCE Parent-Child Education Program and serves as the National Board’s representative for the children and families served by AVANCE HS/EHS programs in Starr and Zapata Counties.
Dr. Daniel King
Dr. Daniel P. King is the Executive Director of Region One Education Service Center, which serves 38 school districts across eight counties in South Texas. A long-time public school Superintendent, Dr. King was named state Superintendent of the Year in 2006 by the Texas Association of School Boards. In 2019, Dr. King retired as Superintendent of the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA). Under his leadership, PSJA reduced the number of annual dropouts and increased the four-year graduation rate and overall high school completion rates to surpass state averages. Prior to PSJA, Dr. King led Hidalgo ISD for eight years. Dr. King earned his Ph.D. from The University of Texas. He completed his undergraduate and Master’s degree at The University of Texas-Pan American.
Lydia Aleman
A highly engaged professional with leadership skills in nonprofit organizations and higher education, Lydia Aleman is the Director of Development Services for Driscoll Children’s Hospital in McAllen, Texas. Before Driscoll, she served as the CEO for Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas (GSGST). She joined GSGST after 26 years in higher education where she served as the Associate Vice President of Advancement Services. She has extensive experience in fundraising, management, accounting and development. Lydia earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting, and she holds two master’s degrees, an MBA and a MACC (master’s in accountancy).
Dr. Cathy Ayoub
Dr. Catherine Ayoub is a licensed psychologist and nurse practitioner whose work at the Brazelton Touchpoints Center includes program development, research, evaluation, consultation, and training. She is responsible for overseeing the evaluation efforts at the Center and is presently engaged in research around child, family, and system-level assessment with attention to evidence-based practice. Raised in Mexico, Dr. Ayoub comes from a multicultural background and has special expertise in clinical work, program development, and research with Latino families. She completed her undergraduate degree at Duke University and holds master’s degrees from Emory University and Harvard University, as well as a Ph.D. in Counseling and Consulting Psychology and an Ed.D from Harvard University.
Diana Cavazos
Diana Cavazos serves on the AVANCE Board of Directors as parent representative. She is a native of Pharr, Texas and is currently the president of the Parent Policy Council for AVANCE Early Head Start programs in Hidalgo County. She is a working mother with three children enrolled in the EHS-Child Care Partnership (CCP) Program. Ms. Cavazos has had two of her children enrolled in the CCP since 2016. Her experience includes serving as City Secretary for the City of San Juan. Currently Ms. Cavazos is working on opening up a new business while also working alongside her father in the family business. Ms. Cavazos earned her Business Administration Associates Degree at South Texas College and her bachelor’s in Business Administration Management from UTRGV.
Kelly Cutler
Kelly Cutler is a Partner on New Profit’s Social Entrepreneur Investing Team, a role that includes leading strategy, engaging donors, leading due diligence for deal selection, and providing deal support to organizations. Kelly has focused her career on work that has the potential to transform the lives of young people, families, and communities. She began her career with business operations and fundraising at entrepreneurial nonprofit Teen Voices. She then served on the Executive Team at Families First Parenting Programs. Prior to joining New Profit, Kelly worked as a Consultant at L.E.K. Consulting, a global management consulting firm. Kelly has a BA in English from Boston University and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.
Greg Flores
Member-at-Large
Greg Flores is the founder and owner of Sculpted Leaders, LLC, an executive consulting firm. He also consults closely with Private Equity organizations as they assess purchases and sale of portfolio assets. He built his 35+ year career in Human Resources leadership positions with such companies as Pilot Flying J., Inc., The TJX Companies, Inc., HEB, Pepsico and Daymon Worldwide. He has served on boards for EnsembleIQ, National Domestic Violence Hotline, Our Lady of the Lake University, Conexion and AVANCE-San Antonio. Greg is also a scuba diver instructor, enjoys reading fiction/non-fiction, yoga and is into metal sculpting. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Statistics from The University of Texas at San Antonio, and studied industrial psychology at the University of North Texas.
Maria Garcia
Chief Program Officer
Maria Garcia is the Chief Program Officer for AVANCE. As CPO, she plays a vital role in executing the organization’s strategic vision, overseeing the delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement of AVANCE programming and services. Maria brings to AVANCE her passion for early childhood education and her wealth of experience in classroom instruction, administration, bilingual education, and program development and implementation. Maria began her career with Austin Independent School District, where she taught first- and third-grade students for over nine years. Later, she joined Georgetown Independent School District, serving in teaching and administrative roles before becoming the Bilingual, English as a Second Language, and Languages Other Than English District Coordinator. Most recently, she served as Account Executive for Lexia Learning, a leading literacy technology company. Maria holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and a Master of Education in Education Leadership and Administration from Concordia University Texas.
Colleen Bridger, MPH, PhD
Dr. Colleen Bridger is the founder and CEO of Colleen Bridger Consulting, LLC, where she works with non-profits, foundations, and government organizations to untangle and address complex problems using a public health/ecological approach. Dr. Bridger started her career in 1990 working with a Migrant Farmworker Clinic in Eastern North Carolina. She then transitioned to working with international development organizations and North Carolina’s Division of Public Health. Previously, Dr. Bridger led the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District and served as the Assistant City Manager for the City of San Antonio. While with the City, she worked with community leaders to develop a county-wide Trauma Informed Care system comprising a Trauma Informed Care Consortium, Institute, and Certification process. She has an undergraduate degree in International Development from The School for International Training, a Master of Public Health degree from The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and a PhD in Health Services research from The University of North Carolina, Charlotte.
Monserrat A. Mata
Monserrat Mata is a Case Worker and Certified Instructor for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). She received her MHFA certification from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and has worked in psychoeducation with the Hispanic/Latino community for four years. In her role, she addresses the mental health education and social service needs of AVANCE-North Texas families referred to the Well Together program and those referred from other agencies. Mata is pursuing a Bachelor’s in Educational Sciences from the Universidad Pedagogica de Durango Mx.
Melinda Escobal
Melinda Escobal has spent 30+ years developing her understanding and skills in working with young children as a Teacher, Center Director, Education Specialist/Mentor, and Program Manager. She specializes in sharing her knowledge and experience with adults in Early Childhood. She obtained her degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, with an emphasis in Early Childhood Development, from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She is furthering her knowledge in the Master's Program for Education and Administration at Walden University.
Esmeralda Fuentes
Esmeralda Fuentes is the Partnerships Manager at Cognitive ToyBox. She worked previously as a bilingual Head Start teacher in San Antonio ISD, a Transitional Kindergarten teacher at San Francisco Unified, and an early childhood instructional coach and trainer at New Teacher Center for large school districts. She has 10+ years of experience in the classroom and supporting early childhood educators, coaches, and administrators. She holds a B.A. in Urban Education and a M.A. in Elementary Education, both from Stanford University.
Snejana Nihtianova
Snejana Nihtianova is the Director of Research, Operations, and Compliances for the Texas Policy Lab, where she contributes to the scientific and intellectual leadership of the organization. She manages and mentors research staff, providing scientific direction to ensure the rigor and quality of all work. Currently, she is overseeing research trials and observational studies in different research fields including child and language development, public health, and women health. Dr. Nihtianova has extensive experience in successfully conducting and managing multiple research studies and training research personnel. For ten years, she served as Senior Clinical Research Manager in the Policy Lab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), where research breakthroughs have improved the lives of countless children throughout the world. At CHOP, she performed quality control and quality assurance to ensure clinical data accuracy and integrity, while directly supervising study activities and maintaining communication with the Study Core Center at CHOP. Dr. Nihtianova earned her doctorate from Walden University in Public Health with a specialization in epidemiology. In addition, she holds two master’s degrees. The first is in Biological Science, which she completed in Bulgaria at Plovdiv University and the second in Clinical Research Organization and Management at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA.
Allison Pape
Chief Program Officer
Allison Pape is the Chief Program Officer for AVANCE. As CPO, she is pivotal in carrying out the organization’s mission, overseeing the delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement of AVANCE programming and services. Allison brings to AVANCE her passion for education and her wealth of experience in classroom instruction, administration and leadership, and large-scale educational initiatives. Prior to joining AVANCE, Allison was the Innovation Specialist for Seguin ISD, where she supported district-wide initiatives, developed new instructional models to drive school improvement, and facilitated the creation and monitoring of the district’s multi-year strategic plan. She served in administrative and leadership positions for more than a decade, including Academic Dean for A.J. Briesemeister Middle School and Director of Secondary and Advanced Academics for Seguin ISD. Before taking on leadership roles, Allison taught middle and high school classes for eight years. Allison holds bachelor’s degrees in anthropology and southwest studies from Southern Methodist University and a Master of Arts in history from Texas State University. She also earned her teacher certification from the University of Texas at San Antonio and her principal certification from Lamar University.
Jorge Padilla
Jorge Padilla is a partner in the trial section of Jackson Walker LLP. He has extensive experience litigating business disputes for a variety of clients. Although his practice is focused in Austin, Texas, Jorge has advocated for his clients in state and federal courts throughout Texas. He has been recognized as one of “Austin’s Top Attorneys” by Austin Monthly, a Texas Rising Star by Thomson Reuters, and one of “The Best Lawyers in America” in Commercial Litigation by Woodward/White Inc. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Texas at Austin and received his J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law. Jorge also serves on the Board of Directors for AVANCE-Austin. As a father of three, he believes in AVANCE’s mission to train and educate both parents and children and that parents are the primary educators for their children.
Dolores Cavazos Hernandez
Mrs. Dolores Cavazos Hernandez is a mother of ten (10) biological children and grandmother to eight (8) children. She is 46 years old, self-employed, a traditional healer by profession, and a 19-year survivor of uterine cancer. Dolores has actively participated in the AVANCE Early Head Start Child Care Partnership (CCP) program since 2021. Dolores was elected treasurer of the Parent Policy Council in 2022 and has been an avid spokeswoman for AVANCE programs. In May 2023, her child William Gregory Ramirez aged out of our program, and as a result, she was voted “Community Representative” for the CCP program. Dolores became passionate about AVANCE programs and channels her passion to help others. She wants to continue volunteering in any way possible to continue supporting AVANCE families.
Sterling Stewart
Sterling Stewart is an active Union Representative for the American Postal Workers Union (APWU). He advocates for labor rights and positively impacts children's lives as Chair of the AVANCE-Houston Policy Council and President of the Parent Committee. In his free time, Sterling enjoys reading and spending time with his two children.
Rose Martinez
Rose is a member of the AVANCE-San Antonio Policy Council. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from UIW and has worked at Vestal Elementary for 16 years, teaching Kindergarten, First, and Third Grade. During her years at Vestal, she has been a team leader, helped in different communities, and is part of DEPERC, where they discuss important decisions that impact our community, employees, stakeholders, and mostly their students. She is also a member of the Harlandale Education Association and is part of the Insurance Advisory. Being involved in child development and education is important to Rose, and she is a certified Foster Care. She is currently raising her granddaughter who attends the AVANCE 6 months-2 years Early Head Start at Fenley Main.
Dr. Iliana Alanís
Dr. Iliana Alanís, a native of South Texas, is a Professor of Early Childhood and Elementary Education in the Department of Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching. She completed her Ph.D. at the University of Texas, Austin in Curriculum and Instruction with specializations in Multilingual Studies and Educational Psychology. She engages teacher candidates and practicing teachers for their work in culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms with a primary focus on the rights of young children to develop their native language and cultural identity. Dr. Alanís uses a sociocultural lens to examine effective pedagogical practices in early childhood, dual language contexts. Her extensive body of work includes over 50 refereed publications. Before entering academia, Dr. Alanís was a bilingual teacher for second-grade students in the Texas Rio Grande Valley. She is a longstanding member of the Dual Language Training Institute and a founding member of the Vales Por Dos Consulting Group. Dr. Alanís has also held leadership positions, including the Texas Association for Bilingual Education (TABE) presidency, National Latino Children’s Institute board member, and Governing Board Member for the National Association for Early Childhood Education (NAEYC).
Priscilla Camacho
Priscilla serves as the Chief Legislative, Industry, & External Relations Officer at Alamo Colleges District. In her role, she focuses on legislative policy, relationships with industry partners, and collaborating with community organizations whose mission and work align with the Alamo Colleges. Prior to Alamo Colleges, Priscilla worked for the Dallas Regional Chamber and the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. A family law attorney early in her career, Priscilla worked for several San Antonio law firms, including Plunket & Gibson and Ford & Massey. She also owned and operated her own law practice for several years. She is a native of Laredo, Texas, and graduated from St. Mary’s University with a degree in English & Communication Arts. She received her law degree from the Texas Tech University School of Law. Priscilla has also served in various capacities on nonprofit and governmental boards and has been recognized for her service to the bar and community. Priscilla has been named as a 40 under 40 leader by the San Antonio Business Journal, G.O.L.D. Award recipient from the Texas Tech University School of Law, Outstanding Young Lawyer by the Bexar County Women’s Bar Association, and a Texas Super Lawyer Rising Star by Texas Monthly and Scene in SA Magazine.
Ife Gbosi
Ife Gbosi leads Commercial Credit Change Initiatives for Bank of America. Her responsibilities include overseeing various processes and platforms that deliver end-to-end credit solutions for Business Banking, Global Commercial Banking, and Global Markets clients. Prior to her current role, Ife was a Leader on Loan to Prairie View A&M University. Ife led campus-wide initiatives to connect students to career pathways and engaged with employers to drive the hiring of Prairie View A&M students for internships and full-time positions. Ife joined Bank of America in December 2005 and held several leadership positions in its Consumer Bank, Global Technology and Operations division, and Regulatory Compliance before joining the Leader on Loan Program.
Belinda May Arambula
Belinda May Arambula is a partner in Terrazas PLLC, where she has diverse civil litigation practice, ranging from construction defect to business litigation and personal injury. She also serves on the boards of several state and local bar organizations, including the Texas Rules of Evidence Committee, Austin Bar Foundation, and Hispanic Bar Association of Austin (former president). When she is not serving her clients or the legal community, Belinda is pounding the pavement training for her next race or volunteering with the Hispanic Bar Foundation, AVANCE-Austin Chapter, and Boy Scouts of America. Belinda earned her undergraduate degree from Baylor University and her law degree from the University of Illinois, College of Law.
Dr. Nicole McZeal Walters
Dr. Nicole McZeal Walters serves as the Founding Dean of the Kolbe School of Innovation and Professional Studies at the University of St. Thomas and is also an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership. As a leadership professor, her research agenda includes developing leaders to embrace servant and moral leadership, social philanthropy, and integrating culture and language to support academic achievement in historically underserved, marginalized students. Her academic work has been published in the Women, Gender, and Families of Color Journal, the International Journal of Educational Reform, Wisconsin English Journal, Gifted Child Today, and School Leadership Review. She is a co-editor of a book entitled Gumbo for the Soul II: Liberating Memoirs and Stories to Inspire Females of Color. Dr. Walters has been awarded Outstanding Educator of the Year by the Child Care Council of Greater Houston, Outstanding UH College of Education Award by the University of Houston, the Excellence in Education Award by Texas Southern University, Founders’ Day Award by Spelman College, and has been recognized by Houston Magazine as one of Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women. Dr. Walters holds a Bachelor of Science in English and Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston, and a Masters and Doctorate of Educational Leadership from Texas Southern University.
Alice Rodriguez
Alice Rodriguez has over 35 years of extensive banking experience with JPMorgan Chase and its predecessors. She has held executive positions in Business Banking, Consumer Banking, Wealth Management, and Community Impact. Since retiring, Alice has engaged more actively in a business that she has co-owned with her husband, Tom Kendall, for 20 years. Kendall Milagro Inc. is a family-owned business in the Dallas area that focuses on boutique home building and real estate investments. She sits on the board of the largest utility player in Texas, Oncor Electric Delivery Co. Alice holds a BBA in Management from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Her professional investment licenses include series 7, 9, 10, and 66. Alice is the immediate past chair for the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and currently serves on many other boards including Dream Spring CDFI, Latino Business Action Network, Perot Museum, and Dallas Arboretum.
Yesenia Alvarez-Gonzalez
Executive Director, AVANCE-San Antonio
Prior to becoming Executive Director, Yesenia Alvarez-Gonzalez served as Chief Program Officer at AVANCE – San Antonio. Having been with AVANCE for 20 years, her experience includes teaching parenting classes, training on program leadership, supervision and management, referral and resource advocacy, and conflict resolution. She began her career as a Parent Educator in AVANCE’s Parent-Child Education Program. Through the years at AVANCE, she has administered and implemented alongside a dynamic team of educators and directors AVANCE’s Parent/Child center- and school-based, Services to Fathers, and Early Head Start and Head Start programs, to include family engagement services.
Yesenia strongly believes in the importance of AVANCE engaging low-income families with young children, and that parents are their child’s first and most important teachers. Yesenia’s passion is to serve the community where she was raised - by a single parent on government subsidies, facing hunger and homelessness.
The daughter of Mexican immigrants, Yesenia attended SAISD inner-city schools and was her family’s first high school and college graduate. After studying at San Antonio College, she earned her Master’s in Nonprofit Management & Leadership from Our Lady of the Lake University.
Yesenia enjoys spending time with her husband, three children and many friends; taking bicycle rides along the mission trails, Zumba workouts, gardening and caring for their family’s pet rabbit.
Maggie Jaime
Interim Executive Director, AVANCE-Austin
Maggie joined AVANCE-Austin in 2017 as Home Visit Lead and has served as Program Director since 2023.
Maggie Jaime, a dedicated advocate and community leader, is the child of migrant farm workers who traveled across the US. Raised in Brownsville, TX, in the Rio Grande Valley, Maggie grew up in a low-income and under-resourced environment. As a first-generation high school and college graduate, she broke new ground for her family. Her career began as an Investigator for Child Protective Services in the Rio Grande Valley, followed by a role as a Community Outreach Worker in Baltimore, MD, where she provided outreach and case management for Latina immigrant victims of intimate partner violence. Maggie also volunteered as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) in Baltimore, advocating for children’s best interests during child welfare proceedings. In Austin, she worked as a CPS Policy Analyst, pushing for better protections at the intersection of child welfare and domestic violence. Eight years ago, Maggie joined AVANCE, where she built out the Home Visitation component, eventually rising to Program Manager and later Program Director, launching new initiatives like AIMS, Mamas Avanzando, Career Navigation services, and AVANCE to College. She has served on the City of Austin Child Advisory Council, the Community Strategy Team for the University of Texas’s Whole Communities Whole Health study, and the Recruitment and Retention Workgroup, advising on culturally responsive strategies. Maggie shares her life with her husband Saul, two daughters Sonny and August, and their dog Banjo Macaroni.
Melinda Gonzalez
Founder and Yoga Instructor
Melinda Gonzalez is a lifelong student of yoga. As an instructor, she is dedicated to holding space where everyone feels welcome and is empowered to create a practice that is in alignment with their body, heart, and mind. Yoga has changed her perspective on life and she wants to share that gift with others who are seeking to start or continue their journey.
After graduating from college, Melinda discovered she was prediabetic and at risk for high blood pressure. Knowing that she had to make a change led her to try yoga. Despite feeling out of place, clumsy, and awkward at first, she fell in love with the practice. Four years later she received her Power Up 200 Hour TT from The AC Power Yoga Institute in SATX.
In 2014, Melinda founded Nomadik Yoga with a mission to cultivate an inclusive environment for individuals to experience the physical and mental benefits, as well as the healing nature of yoga through affordable public and private yoga instruction. Since then she has been teaching donation-based or free community classes throughout the city of San Antonio and has cultivated partnerships with LezRideSA, Pride Center San Antonio, La Botanica, Brick at Blue Star Arts Complex, Flight Gallery, and The Historic Pearl Brewery.
Dr. Gloria Martinez
Dr. Gloria Jean Martinez is a native of San Antonio, Texas and is a proud daughter and granddaughter of Mexican immigrants. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a specialization in Spanish from Our Lady of the Lake University. She also received a Master’s Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Martinez also holds a Texas Superintendent Certification.
Dr. Martinez began her educational career twenty-five years ago at her alma mater Edgewood ISD as a bilingual teacher. In the seventeen years she spent in Edgewood ISD she also served in the following roles: literacy teacher, instructional facilitator, assistant principal, and principal. During her first principalship, Dr. Martinez led Loma Park Elementary to major improvements in accountability including receiving five Distinction Designations, two years in a row from the Texas Education Agency.
In 2017, Dr. Martinez was honored to take a principal position in one of the largest urban school districts in San Antonio, Texas, San Antonio ISD at Sarah King Elementary an improvement required school. Dr. Martinez spent three years at this school and under her leadership she led the school to double digit gains and assisted in getting the school out of improvement required in her first year there. In 2020, she received a promotion that took her to Pleasanton ISD where she served as the Director of School Support. Currently, Dr. Martinez is on her third year as principal at De Zavala Elementary in San Antonio ISD and is also a professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she teaches master students in the principalship program. Dr. Martinez is a participant of the 23-24 Cahn National Distinguished Principal Fellowship where she networks with principals from across the nation.
Dr. Gloria Martinez is a lifelong learner and is passionate about providing a quality and equitable education for every student that crosses her path and builds strong relationships with her students, staff and community.
Debbie Akers
Debbie Akers took the scenic route to Education Service Center, Region 20—literally! After an adventurous hiatus hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with her daughter, she brought her energy and passion to ESC-20. Starting as a project manager, Debbie supported LEAs with Strong Foundations Research-Based Instructional Strategies and TCLAS grant initiatives from the Texas Education Agency. Now, as the Component Director of Early Childhood Education, she's thrilled to return to her roots and true passion.
Debbie's educational journey began at the University of Texas at San Antonio and upon graduation, she spent 14 joyful years shaping young minds in the early grades. In 2005, she earned her Master’s degree in special education as an educational diagnostician from Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and soon after became an instructional specialist. January 2008 marked her transition to administration as she took on the role of assistant principal at a 4th and 5th-grade campus. She earned her administrative certification through the Education Service Center, Region XX's Cohort of Leadership Associates program, and championed Positive Behavior Support, eventually becoming the campus principal in 2009.
After a successful year at a recognized school, Ms. Akers was promoted to lead an elementary campus with over 600 students. Three years later, she advanced to high school principal, overseeing a pipeline of students she had once taught in elementary school. After five years in this role, she joined Floresville ISD as the Director of Special Education and District Testing Coordinator, serving for four years.
Outside of her professional life, Debbie's personal adventures are just as fulfilling. Her daughter, a graduate of Texas A&M College Station, now calls Salt Lake City, Utah, home. Her son, a finance major from Texas Tech University, lives in Lubbock with his wife and eagerly anticipates their first baby's arrival in November. The family loves to hit the slopes every winter, cherishing their annual snowy escapades.
With a career that blends expertise, passion, and a touch of adventure, Debbie Akers continues to inspire and lead with enthusiasm.
Dr. Catherine O’Brien (she/her/hers)
Texas A&M University San Antonio
“Dr. Cat” has worked in the field of early childhood education for over 25 years in various roles. Currently, she is the Director of Campus Childcare and faculty in the Department of Educator and Leadership Preparation, Early Childhood Program at Texas A&M University San Antonio. She is the mother of 5 adult children, and a lover of nature and play. Holding a BA in ECE and Business Administration, MA in Education specializing in Early Childhood, and an Ed.D. in Teaching and Learning, Catherine is also a lifelong learner, passionate about supporting educators, families, and young children to reach their full potential.
Dr. Cat works to create a sense of community in the learning environment that is co-created with students. Like Loris Malaguzzi, Dr. Cat has cultivated the Image of the Child into her teaching philosophy on students and truly believes that every student is a capable, competent, individual that has 100 languages more to express themselves (Edwards, Gandini & Forman, 2012).
Dr. Cat’s passion is advocating for the rights of children including the right to play, the right to high quality early care and education, and the right to safe and heathy environments to grow and develop.
Dr. Irma Guerra
Irma Guerra has dedicated over 17 years to the education community, gaining diverse experience across various roles. She began her career as a classroom teacher in bilingual program models spanning multiple grade levels. Her expertise grew as she took on roles such as campus academic facilitator and district director for elementary education and federal programs. At the regional level, Irma served as a consultant in bilingual education and reading language arts, and later, as a coordinator for multiple program areas at Education Service Center, Region 20.
Irma earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Texas Tech University. Currently, she serves as a coordinator in the Early Childhood component at ESC-20, where she leads a dynamic team dedicated to supporting and advocating for early childhood education. Her work encompasses overseeing the ESC-20 Head Start program, Texas School Ready initiative, the H.O.P.E.S. grant, and a variety of other products and services offered to local education agencies.
Ana De Hoyos O'Connor
Ana De Hoyos O'Connor, from San Antonio, is a dedicated and experienced professional in Early Childhood Studies. Currently serving as a full-time Professor of Early Childhood Studies at San Antonio College, Ana brings over thirty-five years of invaluable expertise to education.
Ana's illustrious career spans diverse roles, including mentor teacher, lab instructor, and Special Quest Coach for Head Start Programs. Her passion for shaping the future of education is evident in her commitment to working with teachers of preschool children, school-age students, parents, and early childhood programs.
She holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of the Incarnate Word and a Master's degree in Education from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Her commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in her continuous pursuit of knowledge and understanding in the field of education.
In addition to her teaching role, Ana actively contributes to various organizations. She serves on the Texas Association for Education T.E.A.C.H. board, showcasing her dedication to advocacy and advancement within the education sector. Furthermore, Ana holds the esteemed position of Chair for the Early Childhood Committee at Alamo Workforce Solution, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping policies and initiatives that impact early childhood education in the region.
Ana De Hoyos O'Connor's tireless commitment to the field of Early Childhood Studies, coupled with her extensive experience, unwavering dedication, and global outreach, cements her as a beacon of inspiration and a driving force in the advancement of early education.
Marisa Mendez
Marisa Mendez was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Mary's University, and Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Marisa also holds a Master of Education in Special Education from Texas A&M.
Principal Mendez has spent 18 years in the field of Education working in various capacities as an Instructional Assistant, General Education Teacher, Special Education Teacher, and Assistant Principal. Ms. Mendez has served in the role of campus principal for 13 years supporting Head Start and Pre-K scholars.
Marisa advocates for high quality Special Education, Dual Language, and Early Childhood opportunities and access for all students.
Dr. Magda Villarreal
Executive Director, Rio Grande Valley
As Executive Director for the Rio Grande Valley, Dr. Magda Villarreal oversees staff, programs, and operations, ensuring the successful execution of AVANCE’s mission and strategic plan. She also leads community engagement initiatives and efforts to expand AVANCE's reach and impact in the region.
Dr. Villarreal has over two decades of leadership experience in education, most recently as Area/Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources for La Joya ISD. Her background includes having served as Assistant Superintendent for Student Services and for Curriculum and Instruction, Executive Director for Accountability and Evaluation, and both an elementary and middle school principal. Her diverse expertise spans curriculum development, student services, human resources management, and community engagement. Throughout her career, Dr. Villarreal has been dedicated to empowering students and staff alike, building strong relationships with parents, businesses, and local agencies to drive student success.
Dr. Villarreal holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M University-Kingsville and a Master of Educational Leadership from the University of Texas-Pan American, where she also earned her undergraduate degree.
Carla Ortiz
Chief of Staff
Carla Ortiz serves as the Chief of Staff for AVANCE, supporting the CEO and the leadership team across the AVANCE network. Her leadership is grounded in her personal and professional journey as the proud daughter of two Salvadoran refugees who believed in the power of early childhood education and invested their limited financial resources to create new opportunities for Carla and her brother. A first-generation college graduate, Carla attended St. Mary's University, earning her B.A. in English and Communication Arts and her M.A. in International Relations, both with academic distinction.
Before joining AVANCE, Carla was the Regional Office Field Director for Catholic Relief Services. She has an extensive background in nonprofit development, communications, and advocacy, including leadership roles at Catholic Relief Services, St. Mary's University, and Merced Housing Texas. Fluent in English and Spanish, Carla's expertise spans community engagement, relationship-building with diverse stakeholders, strategic program development, project management, and leading cross-functional teams.
Carla’s passion for AVANCE's mission stems from her family's journey, which, like many Latino families, has known struggle but also embodies resilience. She recognizes that access to educational opportunities and a supportive community helped create more equity and build power in the lives of her family. She feels honored to serve an organization rooted in a two-generation approach that centers racial equity and addresses educational, economic, and social disparities.