college access navigators Leadership team

Program Manager

 I am a proud first-gen woman in STEM attending MCC. I’m involved in Multicultural Club at MCC as well as at United Way helping them with their food bank. I want to continue my studies and look into a career in hospitality or solar power. 

Outreach Coordinator

 My name is Shirley and I am an Outreach Coordinator for CAN. Before this position I have been a mentor with this program since I graduated high school in 2018 from FMHS. In 2020 I was hired as a paraprofessional at FMHS and now I am the Spanish teacher and the school district is helping me to get my teaching license. I'm passionate about supporting newcomer students and making sure everyone feels welcome and gets the help they need. In  my free time, I like to hang out with friends and pursue my dream of becoming a photographer. 

Grant Writer/Data Collection Specialist

sonia.adame@collegeaccessnavigators.org

I am Sonia Adame Tarin, currently serving as the Grant Writer/Data Collection Specialist at College Access Navigators. 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.

Director of Operations

taylor.jordan@collegeaccessnavigators.org

 Building on almost 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. 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.