Program Manager
I provide support, create community events, plan and host campus visits & college trips and everything surrounding college help. I work to foster connection and belonging for students in middle school and high school and I serve as a Diversity Dlub advisor and YCD adult mentor. I support the Children and Youth Action Team at United Way and I serve on the steering committee as well as the food bank.
Language spoken: English and Spanish
Contact info:
Youth Advocate
I am a dedicated Youth Advocate working closely with first-generation students to guide them through the college application process - including applications, scholarships, grants, and more. I support high school students by providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities such as campus tours, while also focusing on middle school students to foster early academic success. I play a key role in organizing the Contigo Summer Program, and this year, I will be advising the Diversity Club at the high school to further promote inclusion and student leadership.
Languages spoken: English and Spanish
Contact info:
Community Resource Navigator
I'm Elmi Hussein, a proud first-generation college graduate. I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing in Spring 2024 from Colorado State University. Through my unique journey, I've gathered invaluable experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.
As a member of the CAN community, I aspire to be a resource for students from all walks of life. At CAN, I provide translation and interpretation services, manage data collection to improve programs, and handle administrative tasks to ensure smooth operations and accessibility for all.
Interestingly, my name Elmi, signifies “knowledge”, a trait I consistently strive to embody.
Languages spoken: English and Somali
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Wellness and Development Liaison
I graduated from CU Boulder in Spring 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science in MCDB (Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology) and Public Health and Biochemistry.
I am excited to join the CAN team! Some of my responsibilities include:
Languages spoken: Somali and English
Contact information:
Senior Program and Development Manager
I am Sonia Adame Tarin, currently serving as the Senior Program and Development Manager at College Access Navigators. I oversee program strategy, staff supervision, staff development, and evaluation while leading data collection and assessment efforts. I also write grants and prepare reports that sustain and grow our impact for the youth we serve.
In 2020, I proudly graduated from CSU with a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Biomedical Science. My journey into the world of student support began through extracurricular activities and internships, where I uncovered my passion for assisting students. My personal experience of navigating higher education without guidance fuels my dedication to provide the support I lacked. Recognizing the transformative impact of dedicated mentorship, I pursued a Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education, culminating in my graduation in 2022.
My journey was profoundly influenced by my own immigration experience, propelling my unwavering commitment to immigration rights and education equity.
My philosophy centers around ensuring inclusive education access for everyone. I firmly believe in nurturing an environment where students of all backgrounds, regardless of their status, socio-economic standing, or ethnicity, can thrive. I am resolute in my pursuit of creating a space where every student's potential is realized and celebrated.
Languages spoken: English and Spanish
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Founder & Executive Director
Building on over 10 years of direct work with historically-marginalized students and families in Fort Morgan, I started my journey in education as the ELD (English Language Development) Teacher at FMHS in 2014. After leaving teaching, I earned a Master’s of Arts in Ethnic and Gender Studies from CSU and worked under several grant projects, growing my connections as well as my skill set.
During the Covid-19 Pandemic, I applied for seed funding to start this project, learned the steps to start a nonprofit, and we have been growing ever since. At CAN, I provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship within our program as well as establish and oversee management systems and
foster strategic partnerships. I also get to continue working with students as a Youth Celebrate Diversity Coach and as a
Diversity Club Co-Advisor.
I am proud of our organization and passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive society. I believe this work is one step towards the future world I want to see and live in.
Languages spoken: English
Contact info:
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