As true solution partners, the Economic Mobility Systems team is committed to a set of core beliefs. Everything we do is based on our commitment to more equitable outcomes, collaboration and trust, and always putting the student first.
We develop partnerships with the sole purpose of producing a strong ROI in the form of equitable student college and workforce outcomes to include: improving college readiness, increasing college enrollment, promoting college persistence and completion, and achieving workforce alignment, entry, and living wage attainment.
Our solution partnerships are built foremost on trust and relationships. Helping partners build community is the foundation from which we work to design, develop, and execute effective college and career strategies and produce results.
We never lose sight of what is best for students and how to empower them on their journey to success, as we engage through regional collaborations and with state agencies and policy makers to build more coherent and interdependent approaches to address inequities.
Strategic Partnerships for Educational Impact
Meet Ethel Ajanga—a consummate professional, adept in harnessing the power of data to drive informed decision-making within our team.
Ethel Ajanga is a dedicated team member with a profound commitment to transforming data into compelling narratives. Her extensive background encompasses seasoned expertise in Tableau development, meticulous data analysis, and adept strategic collaboration. Ethel serves as the driving force behind impactful data visualizations and insights within our team.
Born in Kenya and raised in the DFW area, Ethel brings a diverse perspective to her professional endeavors. Her professional journey spans across various education sectors, including private, charter, public, and community college institutions. This breadth of experience underscores her adaptability and proficiency in addressing the unique challenges within each sector.
Visualizing Success Through Data Analytics
Kashif Asdi, PhD, brings over two decades of experience in academic innovation, product strategy, and educational equity across K–12, higher education, and workforce development. A first-generation college and doctoral graduate, he has dedicated his career to building scalable learning solutions that expand access, reduce cost, and align education with opportunity.
Most recently, Kashif served as Vice President of Academic Services and Products at Academic Partnerships, collaborating with more than 120 colleges to design and launch affordable, high-impact degree programs. His leadership emphasized streamlining course development, aligning curricula with workforce needs, and accelerating speed-to-market for in-demand programs.
Earlier, as Chief Academic Officer at Sophia Learning–Capella Education, Kashif developed SOPHIA Pathways for College Credit, a mastery-based platform that has saved students over $1 billion in tuition as of spring 2025. He also launched the first fully online, self-paced Flip Classroom Certificate, supporting more than 7,000 educators in enhancing their instructional practice.
Kashif’s approach centers on data-informed design, agile development, and deep stakeholder engagement. He is known for translating complex policy and compliance frameworks into learner-centered tools that deliver measurable outcomes. His commitment to equity, access, and innovation aligns closely with the mission of the Economic Mobility Center, empowering counselors and district leaders with actionable insights to close readiness gaps and improve postsecondary success.
Outside of work, Kashif is a strong advocate for lifelong learning, cross-cultural empathy, and community-driven impact. He holds a Ph.D. in Learning Technologies from the University of Minnesota and degrees in Design Communication, Journalism, and Fine Arts.
Expanding Access. Advancing Opportunity. Empowering Futures
Steven is a strategic Human Resources leader with a diverse background spanning HR, sales, and education. With over a decade of experience across both the private and nonprofit sectors, he has led initiatives in organizational development, compliance, talent strategy, and employee engagement—supporting teams through growth, transition, and cultural transformation.
As Head of Human Resources at Economic Mobility Center (EMC), Steven is responsible for leading the organization’s people strategy, including HR operations, performance management, benefits, training, compliance, and employee relations. He plays a key role in shaping the employee experience and supporting EMC’s mission to expand economic opportunity through education and workforce innovation.
Prior to EMC, Steven held senior leadership roles at Ivy.ai, Academic Partnerships, and Texas Instruments, where he led initiatives such as StrengthsFinder-based team development, 9-box performance management, handbook overhauls, and multi-state compliance. His experience in sales earlier in his career provided a strong foundation in communication, strategic planning, and client engagement—skills that inform his people-first, results-driven approach to HR.
Steven began his professional journey as a classroom teacher, an experience that continues to influence his commitment to learning, coaching, and leadership development.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Texas Tech University, a Executive Management Certificate in Strategic Negotiations from Harvard University, an Advanced Certificate for Executives in Management, Innovation & Technology (ACE) from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and an Executive Honors Certificate in Leadership Essentials from University of Notre Dame – Mendoza College of Business.
People-First Leadership for Transformational Growth
Throughout his extensive career, Eric has made an impact in education, from strategically linking high school reform to economic development in Greater Chicago to leading statewide initiatives for Dallas County Promise. In 2020, Eric founded EMS as a coalition under the Commit Partnership. Prior to his leadership role with Dallas County Promise, Eric was Senior Vice President of Program Innovation at Academic Partnerships, where he developed programs and solutions for universities to better serve students through online programs around the world.
As principal of Crown Point High School in Greater Chicago, Eric founded the College Acceleration Network, linking high school reform to economic development. During his tenure, he led the school in a remarkable transformation, using college readiness instruments and data that gained Crown Point High School the designation of the first ACT college acceleration research high school in the country. His innovations to produce next generation affordable, accountable and accessible dual credit classes with Indiana University Northwest and Purdue University Calumet were featured in Ed Week.
Before serving as a high school principal, Eric worked to build scalable models of K-12 and university programming with Dallas-based Higher Ed Holdings, where he served as Vice President of Research and Development and Executive Director of University Partnerships. Eric began his career as a high school chemistry teacher and basketball coach in Bloomington, Indiana. He moved into administration and then into a visiting professor role at the Indiana University School of Education where he reinvented the university’s student teacher performance system, launched the Indiana Reading Academy, and developed the teacher leadership master’s program.
Eric received a BS in Science Education, MAT in Chemistry, and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Indiana University.
Vision to Relentless Execution
Admissions Operations at the University of Texas at Arlington. In this role, he looked to improve the admissions decision process by serving both graduate and undergraduate applicants, achieved by leveraging new technology capabilities. Additionally, Enrique has served a variety of roles focusing on Enrollment Management and Student Services at Dallas College with focuses on student recruitment, campus tours, student mentorship, new student orientation, Dallas County Promise, and constituent relationship management (CRM).
Throughout his professional endeavors, Enrique has applied his passion for technology to help guide work teams towards continued success. He holds several technology certifications, with the most notable being a Salesforce Certified Administrator, Salesforce Certified Platform App Builder and Salesforce Certified Education Cloud Consultant. Academically, Enrique holds an associate degree from Navarro College, bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration from Sam Houston State University.
Innovative Tech for Educational Excellence
Most recently, Karen served as Controller at Custom Bilt Metals, where she revitalized accounting operations, eliminated a months-long invoicing backlog, and delivered comprehensive financial reporting across multiple entities. Prior to that, she led the finance team at the Dallas Museum of Art, managing a $350 million net asset portfolio and streamlining the period close process by six days through strategic process improvements.
Karen has also held leadership roles at The Family Place, US Anesthesia Partners, Paragon Furniture, and The Dwyer Group. Her accomplishments include coordinating flawless external audits, leading multiple software conversions, and overseeing complex financial consolidations. She is recognized for her hands-on leadership style, team mentoring, and a deep commitment to regulatory compliance and internal control integrity.
Guiding Nonprofits with Financial Clarity
Marcia Chaffin Brown brings over 13 years of education and project management expertise to EMC, with a passion for turning complex challenges into streamlined success stories that make people’s work lives better.
Before joining EMC, she served as Senior Project Manager at VentureWell, where she was instrumental in establishing a comprehensive Project Management Office from the ground up, helping to transform project delivery and outcomes.
Throughout her career at various organizations, Marcia has consistently focused on the human side of project management
Marcia is a Dallas native who is a certified PMP with master’s degrees in education and forensic psychology. She brings a unique perspective on how people learn and what motivates teams to succeed. Her diverse background has taught her that the best projects happen when everyone feels heard and understands their role in the bigger picture.
Outside of work, Marcia loves to travel, exploring new cultures and wandering through museums wherever her adventures take her. She’s equally content getting her hands dirty in her garden, settling in for a thought-provoking documentary, or simply enjoying quality time with her family.
Delivering results through relationship building
From the Gulf Coast of Galveston Texas to the West Texas Plains, and finally, in the heart of DFW. Lucas’ knowledge and experience has taken him all over the great state of Texas, providing technological solutions for a variety of industries. From Higher Education to Oil & Gas, Transportation & Logistics, and even Banking. Lucas’ acumen for learning new technologies, discerning problem areas, and developing solutions has been cultivated from the plethora of Data management challenges he has had to face in his varied career.
Graduating from Texas Tech University in 2015, Lucas began building his career in Higher Education, working in Enrollment Management for the very same school that had brought him to West Texas. This experience cemented the foundational principles and fundamental methods that he would carry with him in the future. Not only focused on software and technology but the human impact that he had on the students he was helping. Each one was given an incredible opportunity to reach their goals thanks to the efforts of the Enrollment Management team and the software that was employed to help them.
With a wealth of experience, in a multitude of Data-driven environments, and is ability to hone in on the end-User impact, Lucas now joins the team at Economic Mobility Systems, to help ensure that all have an opportunity to succeed in this world.
Bringing people together through Data
Empowering students through opportunity
Most recently, Tilope served as the Director of Business and Finance for a Memphis based, multi-company nonprofit, where she managed accounting functions, payroll processing, financial reporting, and HR administration. With over a decade of experience she has also held key financial roles in banking and finance showcasing her expertise in bookkeeping, compliance, budgeting, and donor relations.
Tilope is highly adept at streamlining operations and ensuring financial integrity. She is a fast learner, self-motivated, and excels in both team-based and independent environments.
Expert in Finance, Operations & Strategy
Sam began his career as a high school math teacher in the Dallas Independent School District. After he completed two years of service with Teach for America, Sam was promoted to Assistant Principal at Moises E. Molina High School in Oak Cliff, Dallas. At Molina, Sam led Dallas ISD’s largest Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH). After two years, Sam was appointed Principal of North Lake Early College High School and became the youngest high school principal in the State of Texas. Sam successfully led his campus to its first A-rating by the Texas Education Agency and 98% of his graduating senior class earned both a high school diploma and an associate degree from Dallas College.
Sam believes that every student, regardless of their zip-code, should have equal access to an exceptional education system and the ultimate promise of economic mobility achieved through higher education and workforce development.
Unlocking Potential Through Education & Opportunity
Nikita “Niki” Fisher brings over 20 years of experience in education with a deep commitment to equity, access, and student-centered success. Throughout her career, she has built and led innovative college, career, and military readiness programs designed to empower students and remove barriers to postsecondary opportunity.
Most recently serving as the CCMR Dean in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, Niki developed and implemented districtwide systems to support high school students in achieving CCMR indicators, with a focus on TSI readiness. She created onboarding tools and cross-departmental strategies to support future success for every student. Her work included leading data-driven collaborations and partnering with institutions like Dallas College to connect students with affordable, high-impact degree and certificate pathways.
Earlier in her career, as Lead Counselor at an Early College High School, Niki collaborated with Dallas College to increase the rates of students graduating with associate degrees to 85%. Niki promoted special programs to increase parent awareness, action, and participation as well as established a culture of increased student involvement within local and state communities.
Outside of work, Niki volunteers with the Association of American University Women, North Dallas Chapter, which works toward advancing gender equity through education and advocacy.
An Iowan at heart, Niki holds a B.A. in Religion from the University of Iowa (Go Hawks!) and a Master’s in Counseling from the University of North Texas. As a certified college adviser through Columbia University, she continues to champion innovation, access, and student voice in all areas of her work.
Fueling Student Potential. Always Growing. Empowering Bold Futures
Mark’s vast experience covers nonprofit to corporate, anchored by a passion for leveraging innovative technology to enhance and expand access to quality education.
Prior to joining Commit and EMS, Mark served as Chief Information Officer and SVP of Distance Learning Systems at Whitney International University System (now Ilumno), where he created a scalable distance-learning model to support the company’s vision of global mass access to quality higher education. He developed the IT strategy and led IT organizations at seven university partners across Latin America to create and implement technology-based solutions supporting the development and delivery of campus-based and online, degree-based education programs, serving more than 100,000 students. Additionally, Mark served as the president of ADEPTCentral, a division of Avalon Consulting, LLC, specializing in the design and development of customized learning solutions for Fortune 500 companies and Higher Education institutions.
Mark began his career starting up and building Westcott Communications, a pioneering distance education company serving various industries, including first responders, healthcare professionals, and high school students. His career there spanned two decades and two acquisitions, serving in various executive leadership roles including VP Information Technology and VP Operations. A native Texan, Mark is a proud graduate of Irving ISD and Dallas County Community College District colleges, and received a BBA in Management with a minor in International Business from Northwood University.
Design and Deliver Solutions that Matter
Robin Hartman brings deep expertise in strategy, research, analytics, and product management across the private and public sectors. She applies a data-driven, human-centered approach to solving complex challenges, with a particular passion for education.
Previously, Robin was as a Senior Product Manager at the U.S. General Services Administration’s Technology Transformation Services, where she drove a revamped roadmap and new metrics for Digital.gov. Before that, Robin served as the Director of Data Strategy and Analytics at the Texas Education Agency, spearheading a major investment in K-12 EdTech interoperability, enhancing internal data and analytics capability development, and overseeing the development of high-quality instructional materials for hybrid learning environments.
Robin’s background also includes a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering and time as a management consultant and project leader at Boston Consulting Group.
Analytics for People, Equity, and Impact
Jonathan’s educational journey continued to evolve as he embraced new challenges and opportunities. Graduating from Grand Prairie High School, he became a participant in the Dallas County Promise program, setting the stage for his pursuit of higher education. Jonathan dedicated two years to Dallas College, immersing himself in the world of technology and laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.
Fueled by his passion for technology, Jonathan decided to further his studies and enrolled in Texas A&M-Commerce, where he successfully earned a degree in Computer Science in the spring of 2023. His academic achievements, combined with his commitment to learning and innovation, led him to an internship at EMS. Here, he delved into the dynamic intersection of technology and education, gaining valuable insights into the implementation of systems crucial to student success.
Acknowledging his potential and dedication, Jonathan has now moved into a new position as the Data and Systems Associate at EMS. In this position, he plays a crucial role in developing, integrating, and analyzing technical resources, as well as ensuring smooth operation of systems integral to the EMS team’s efficiency and effectiveness. His journey from an intern to a Data and Systems Associate exemplifies his dedication to growth and excellence in the field of technology.
Bridging Technology and Education for Impact
Throughout her career, Shawn has focused her passion and expertise on the intersection of learning and work. Holding steadfast in her commitment to create the conditions, partnerships and solutions necessary to empower millions of learners to improve their lives and careers.
Shawn has a wealth of experience in developing and scaling impactful solutions that drive economic mobility. Drawing on extensive experience in both the non-profit and corporate sectors, Shawn excels at connecting employers, educators, and community organizations to create pathways to opportunity. She previously established a new product organization at CAEL, launching 20+ upskilling technology solutions for major clients. She also set the vision and organizational structure for a new client success division as Regional Vice President at Wiley Education Services. By applying deep expertise in learning strategy and talent development, Shawn created programs and solutions for universities and corporate partners that turned learning investments into strategic talent advantages for improved recruitment, retention and mobility – especially for the frontline workforce.
Strategic Solutions, Tangible Social Impact
Prior to TEA, Laux’s career in education included roles as a middle school teacher, instructional coach, and teacher educator. She led new teacher training at Teach For America’s only rural national teacher training institute, where she developed expertise in supporting educational excellence in rural communities.
Throughout her career, Laux has demonstrated success in implementing systemic changes that expand educational and economic opportunities.
Transforming Education, Expanding Opportunity
Dr. Mark Luetzelschwab is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming education and workforce development through innovative technology and skills-based solutions. Over the past 30 years, he has worked to address some of the most pressing challenges in education, driving initiatives that empower young adults to access living-wage careers and prepare for the evolving global economy. His work has included dramatically reducing the cost of college degrees, scaling personalized learning in difficult environments, expanding access to learning and technology across the globe, and innovating new ways of teaching science and engineering.
As CEO of Eduphoric, an educational solutions agency, Dr. Luetzelschwab and his global team helps clients transform bold ideas into impactful solutions. He has founded multiple startups, led divisions in major organizations, launched data and AI projects at College Board, Amazon Web Services, and PwC, and received national recognition for his innovative contributions to education technology.
Dr. Luetzelschwab holds a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology from The University of Texas at Austin, an M.E. and B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a B.S. in Physics from Dickinson College.
Transforming Education with Innovation and Impact
Ileana Martinez brings extensive experience in marketing and communications, with a deep commitment to servant leadership and advancing mission-driven work.
Before joining Economic Mobility Systems, she led national communications efforts at SER National, where she amplified stories of workforce development and education across the country. Ileana also supported public affairs and advocacy campaigns at The Raben Group, a D.C.-based consulting firm focused on equity and justice. Earlier in her career, she worked with Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest, where she championed girl empowerment and community engagement through innovative outreach and programming in the southern New Mexico and West Texas community.
Throughout her career, Ileana has built impactful campaigns that elevate communities, strengthen partnerships, and drive strategic results with heart, purpose, and creativity at the core of her work.
Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Ileana earned her B.A. in Communications from New Mexico State University.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, watching films, mastering recipes in the kitchen, and challenging others in trivia games.
Leading with Purpose, Marketing with Heart
Cornelia McCowan brings to EMS more than 20 years of experience in college and career readiness through various roles in higher education and K-12. Most recently, she served as the Executive Director of College and Career Readiness in Grand Prairie ISD.
Her career journey includes extensive experience helping first-generation students navigate and graduate from college, as Program Supervisor for the Academic Bridge Program at The University of Texas at Dallas. Prior to Grand Prairie ISD, she managed the College and Career Readiness Center in Lancaster ISD and served as a strategic educational program consultant to a variety of non-profit and faith-based organizations across Texas.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from The University Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Dallas Baptist University.
She is the proud mother of Daniel and Taylor McCowan.
Dedicated to Student Achievement and Growth
Kristin is a data-driven Marketing and Operations Executive with a proven track record of driving growth, operational efficiency, and strategic transformation. With over 25 years of leadership experience across marketing, operations, finance, and strategy, she has successfully scaled businesses, optimized performance, and aligned strategies to market demands across Fortune 100 corporations, private equity-backed companies, startups, and nonprofit organizations.
As Chief Operating Officer of Economic Mobility Center (EMC), Kristin oversees Marketing, Strategy, Finance, HR, Legal, Analytics, and Operational Improvement. She plays a pivotal role in advancing EMC’s mission to expand economic opportunity through data-driven solutions that empower K-12 and higher education institutions.
With over seven years in online education, Kristin has held leadership roles at Academic Partnerships and Higher Ed Partners. As COO of Higher Ed Partners, she led international expansion, managing marketing, contact centers, technology, business intelligence, and partner support for 10 UK universities. At Academic Partnerships, she served as Vice President of Performance Marketing and Vertical Chief of Healthcare, Business, and Undergraduate, driving enrollment growth and student success.
Beyond the education sector, Kristin has led large-scale initiatives in retail, e-commerce, and industrial sectors. At Office Depot, she held multiple leadership roles and managed multiple business units including the $1.2B e-commerce and direct sales business. She has also held key marketing and operational leadership roles at Galls LLC, Innovative Mattress Solutions, and Anacomp Inc.
Kristin holds an MBA with an international emphasis from United States International University and a BA in Economics from the University of California San Diego.
Optimizing Performance. Accelerating Success.
Robert brings more than 16 years of in-depth experience in education technology, including expertise in Salesforce, to the EMS team.
He comes to Commit and EMS with a great balance of experience with educational products, custom software development, data integrations, client-facing collaboration and management of technical resources. Over the years he has enjoyed learning new skills and implementing new software. He believes that technology will come and go but the vital need for student success will always remain.
Prior to joining Commit, Robert gained diverse experience in education technology, having worked for a top community college, the largest higher education software company and an education focused non-profit startup. As a Certified Salesforce Administrator, Robert has worked with Salesforce to develop systems to assist students’ transition from high school to and through college. A first generation American, Robert grew up in the Houston area and received an Associate’s degree in Application Programming from San Jacinto College.
High Tech High Touch Data and System Support
Brett has over 25 years of experience in Information Technology, from his days at IBM to running his own I.T. business. Previously serving as the Director of IT for the Dallas Mavericks, he led all cyber security initiatives. An accomplished IT leader, Brett possesses a robust background in network architecture, cyber security, and enterprise system management. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to lead teams, tackle complex technical challenges, and provide innovative solutions. Known for his collaborative approach and dedication to operational excellence, Brett brings both deep technical expertise and strategic insight to the team. Brett has is Associates of Science from Collin College, and numerous I.T. certifications. In his free time he is head coach to his sons hockey team, and enjoys hockey, snow skiing and video games.
Cybersecurity Expert with Executive IT Insight
Imran was born and raised in a small town in Central California. From an early age he experienced first-hand educational inequities in both resources and opportunities for students and has pursued opportunities over the years to work on closing these gaps.
He joins EMS not only passionate about its work but also strongly committed to a data-driven approach to recognizing and helping students who may be at risk of falling through the cracks. He brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge in data systems including how to leverage Salesforce for student outcomes data.
Prior to EMS he has worked in college access, microfinance, as well as on the corporate side doing media planning and strategy at a global media agency. He has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a minor in Sports Media Studies from the University of Southern California along with a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University. In his free time he is an avid sports fan, swimmer, and enjoys baking sweet treats for friends and family.
Leveraging Data to Bridge Equity Gaps
Christian Ohonba brings over 8 years of project management expertise, with a proven track record of delivering complex implementations across SaaS, nonprofit, and higher education sectors. As a PMP-certified professional, she specializes in transforming ambiguous requirements into structured, successful outcomes.
Before joining EMC, Christian served as a Project Manager at Redpath Consulting Group, where she led 20+ Salesforce implementations for nonprofit and higher education clients. Her strategic approach to aligning system capabilities with business objectives resulted in improved operational transparency and a 30% increase in client satisfaction. She excelled at mentoring cross-functional teams and translating technical complexities into clear strategic outcomes for stakeholders.
Previously, at Virgin Pulse, Christian managed enterprise client onboarding and implementation processes, where her focus on change management and process optimization reduced escalations by 25% and significantly improved post-launch client self-sufficiency. Earlier in her career at HomeCare HomeBase, she executed 30+ EMR software implementations, building her foundation in full-lifecycle project delivery and cross-departmental collaboration.
Christian earned her Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington, with a focus on Human Resources and Political Science. She recently achieved her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in December 2024.
When she’s not driving project success, Christian enjoys exploring Dallas’s diverse culinary scene and staying active in the local community.
Bringing clarity to complexity—delivering strategic solutions that align teams and exceed client expectations
Karen brings to EMS a passion for education that springs from her direct experience as an immigrant to the United States as well as a blend of grassroots community-building and state-level policy experience. As Manager of Partner Support, she is responsible for project management processes that are essential to supporting EMS’ partnership programs and goals.
Prior to joining Commit and EMS, Karen served as a Chief of Staff in the Texas House of Representatives, where she helped develop progressive policy around women’s healthcare, education, immigration, juvenile justice and family issues. In this role, she played a key role in the passage of Texas House Bill 3005, which was developed to help immigrant families receive the right to an interpreter during child custody evaluations. Previously, Karen worked as a community organizer for Jolt Texas, a progressive organization in Texas, where she focused on creating networks of young people of color across the state to build collective voice, power, and influence through civic engagement.
Born in northern Mexico and raised in Texas, Karen’s experience as an immigrant navigating the American education system inspired her to focus her career on helping others like herself and hopes her experience in policy and community building can help pave the way to a more equitable world. Karen began her higher ed journey at Dallas College, and graduated from the University of North Texas with a bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs & Community Service and a minor in Nonprofit Leadership.
Where Implementation Meets Customer Service
A leader in higher education and student success, Dr. Anabel Romero-Juarez joined EMS from Dallas College, where she served for a decade, most recently as the college’s inaugural Dean of Recruitment and Retention. As a proud first-generation college graduate, Anabel’s career in higher education has taken her from Washington State to Louisiana before returning to Texas, where she also received her doctorate.
Her nearly 20 years in higher education has included various leadership roles and educational institutions, encompassing experiences in student success and enrollment management, such as recruitment, financial aid, academic advising, and federal TRIO grants. She also brings deep experience in developing regional partnerships, so vital to successful regional talent strategies, from her work as a GEAR UP Site Director at rural Washington State University, and from her tenure with Dallas College.
Outside of higher education, she has been active in coordinating Get out the Vote, local and state campaign efforts in Texas and Washington.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and History, a master’s degree in Public Administration and recently earned a Doctor of Education in Learning and Organizational Change from Baylor University.
She is married to Albert Juarez, and they are proud parents to Lilly Aurora.
Student-centered pathways to college and workforce success
LaGregory “LG” Scruggs is a dedicated educator with over a decade of experience in the field. He currently serves as the Account Manager for DeSoto, Garland, and Grand Prairie, where he is committed to implementing sustainable College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) strategies by leveraging data analytics and trends. In this role, LG focuses on bridging the gap between high schools and post-secondary institutions to develop seamless pathways to college enrollment.
Prior to joining EMS, LG was a CCMR Coordinator in Austin Independent School District (ISD), supporting over 14 high school campuses. Under his guidance, the district achieved a notable milestone with over 50% of students meeting the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment criteria.
Before his tenure in Austin ISD, LG served as the Campus-Based Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator at Dr. Emmett J. Conrad High School in Dallas ISD. There, he oversaw programs supporting over 800 students across five pathways: Hospitality and Tourism, Information Technology, Health Science, Engineering, and Finance. Under his leadership, the school became the first and only high school in Texas to earn Distinguished status in each pathway through the National Academy Foundation (NAF), securing over $20,000 in funding to support these programs.
LG holds a degree from McNeese State University and pursued graduate studies at the University of Phoenix.
Positively Impact the Lives of Students
With over a decade of experience in administration, including extensive work as an executive assistant supporting various companies, Loren Smith has developed a strong skill set in organization, leadership, and operational support. Their expertise spans across multiple industries, where they have played a crucial role in ensuring seamless executive operations and strategic coordination.
Beyond their professional career, Loren Smith has dedicated over a decade to volunteering with youth and actively contributing to community initiatives. Their passion for mentorship and service has allowed them to make a meaningful impact, fostering growth and positive changes in the lives of young individuals.
A dedicated professional and community advocate, Loren Smithcontinues to blend their administrative expertise with a commitment to giving back, striving to make a lasting difference both in the workplace and beyond.
Dedicated professional and community advocate
Kaylyn Walton, M.Ed. has over a decade of experience dedicated to expanding college access and success. As a first-generation college graduate, she is passionate about the transformational power of education and has spent her career creating opportunities for students to thrive.
Previously, she was a Deputy Director at Education Texas, where she supported Early College High Schools across West Texas, becoming a strong advocate for rural school districts. Additionally, she oversaw the implementation of the EdReady platform to the CCRSM network, expanding access to TSIA preparation and learning.
Kaylyn has also worked as a college advisor in Boston Public Schools and Dallas Independent School District, guiding students through all aspects of the college admissions process.
As an Assistant Director of Admissions at Boston University, she played a key role in supporting the Yes Prep charter school partnership and spearheading the IDEA Schools partnership, helping to create stronger pathways for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Additionally, she oversaw the Guaranteed Transfer program, ensuring a seamless transition for eligible students.
Beyond her work in admissions and advising, Kaylyn is an experienced event planner and public speaker, having organized conferences, workshops, and professional development sessions on college access and student success. She has presented to diverse audiences, including educators, students, and community leaders.
Kaylyn holds a B.A. in Middle Eastern Studies and Religion from Tufts University and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policy from Boston University.
Transforming Education Through Access and Advocacy