| |
| Sandra M. Gonzales, Director |
| Bio: I have worked with youth from middle school on up to college as a youth specialist for runaway teens, a middle school teacher, a Coordinator for Big Brother Big Sister at Columbia University, a Social Services Director for a community health organization and as a cultural consultant through a consortium with the State of Washington. I have earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University, a Master's Degree in Psychology from Antioch University in Seattle, Washington, a second Master's Degree in Education from Columbia University in New York and a Doctoral degree in International Education, also from Columbia University. In addition to my work with Upward Bound, I also co-chair the Latino Advisory Council of staff and faculty at EMU.
Personal Information: I have a wonderful husband and two beautiful children, Julian and Xiomara. Being a mom and Upward Bound keep me pretty busy, but I do love to read, garden and cook in my spare time. I also enjoy traveling off-the-beaten path and have been to every continent in the world except for Australia/Oceana.
I love my job because: I was the first in my family to earn a college degree and I know how hard, confusing, frustrating, overwhelming and scary the college process can be. As a result, I enjoy creating programs that will help young people persist and succeed in reaching their goals. I also enjoy celebrating every unique person in our program — we have an amazing group of students and families. Serving them is one of the best parts of my job!
Email: sgonzal3@emich.edu |
| |
|
| Florence Andrews, Associate Director |
|
Bio:
I worked fifteen years in information technology before starting
work as an Upward Bound secretary in 1995. I have an Associates Degree in Business Information, a BBA in Business Administration and a Bachelor's of Science degree in Man
agement and Organizational Development. I recently earned my Master's Degree in Education.
Personal Information: I am an avid reader and admitted computer geek. I am trying to develop a more physical exercise regime. I walk in the woods near my house and am trying to cook healthier. I would love to learn to ride a horse.
I love my job because: I love watching youth develop right before my eyes. Parents are with their students everyday and growth is somewhat gradual. With us the transformation over the years from eighth to twelfth seems more apparent. I especially enjoy seeing the students come back after they achieve their academic goals.
Email: florence.andrews@emich.edu |
| |
|
| Kim L. Rankins, Senior Secretary |
 |
Bio: I have worked a total 6.5 years at Eastern Michigan University in the Nursing Department and The Institute for the Study of Children, Families and Communities before starting with Upward Bound in 2008. I have Associate Degrees from Washtenaw Community College in Administrative Technology, Administrative Medical technology and a Certificate in Computer Applications. Currently, I am attending Eastern Michigan University and working toward completing my Bachelors degree in Business, Management, Marketing, and Technology.
Personal Information: I have two beautiful daughters and a wonderful grandson. I enjoy several activities with my family such as swimming, biking and traveling. My hobbies include crocheting and taking care of my flowers and plants. My participation in church is also very important to me.
I love my job because: The environment is very friendly. The staff and student workers work together in meeting the goal of Upward Bounds mission statement. I enjoy watching the hard work the students of Upward Bound do to excel as high academic achievers. It is an honor to be a part of this team.
Email: krankins@emich.edu |
| |
|
| Jessica O'Leary, Program Specialist |
|
Bio: I have wanted to work with youth since I was a teenager myself. Throughout high school, I was extremely involved in working with middle school and younger high school students. I spent my summers working at the Salvation Army Day Camp, which helped confirmed my desire to become an educator. I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education at Eastern Michigan University and soon began teaching in Wayne, MI at the very high school I attended. I worked with the Upward Bound Program for over three years and also became a co-facilitator for the Gear Up Girl’s Leadership Program. While serving the students there, I earned my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership at Eastern Michigan University.
Personal Information: I have a wonderful husband Scott, who also works in the field of education. In addition, I am very active in my church as a member of the Women’s Board and a small-group leader. My husband and I also volunteer at a psychiatric hospital, a retirement home, and a correctional facility. In our free time we enjoy spending time with our family, being outdoors, and I like to read and write.
I love my job because: As an Upward Bound Alumnus, I enjoy working with students who are living in similar circumstances to those I once knew. I was the first in my family to attend college, and I know this was made possible with the help of Upward Bound. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with students and assist them in reaching their goals. Serving the students and families of Upward Bound as the Program Specialist is a dream come true and I look forward to working with all of our wonderful students!
Email: joleary4@emich.edu |
|
