Our CEO Team
CEO Staff
Megan Ahlquist-Cheung serves as the Data Strategy and Business Program Manager. In this role, she supports the GEAR UP and MCAC programs through program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts. Megan believes strongly in the power of storytelling and the impact of data on the stories we tell. As a former middle school English teacher, she is passionate about improving educational opportunities for all students.
Megan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English for Secondary Education from Hope College and a Master of Arts in Educational Studies – Program Evaluation and Improvement Research from the University of Michigan.
Da Jaunteyé (DJ) Hawkins serves as the Program Manager for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). Her role is focused on increasing the number of Michigan students from low-income communities who are prepared to not only enter but succeed in postsecondary education. In addition to specializing in supporting student’s college access and success, DJ specializes in STEM educational experiences. She provides school based educational programs, training resources, and assistance through workshops, information sessions, and distribution of materials. In addition, DJ also manages programs and activities including campus visits. Da Jaunteye’ holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Social Thought (Pre-Law Concentration) from the University of Toledo.
Dyrel Johnson serves as Program Manager for the Center Educational Outreach. In his role, Dyrel is responsible for the development and management of the CEO Campus Visit program, the training and funding of U-M student organizations outreach initiatives through Project Inspire, and CEO’s CASA team. Dyrel comes to CEO with a wealth of knowledge as a non-profit professional with over thirteen years of experience supporting K-12 academic, mentoring and service-learning programs in the City of Detroit and surrounding communities. As a proud product of Detroit and its school system, Dyrel is passionate about providing access to equitable opportunities that promote academic achievement to underserved students
Antonio Junior-Robins serves as the Program Manager for the GEAR UP Program. His role is to partner with K-12 schools to deliver transformative educational services to students and families with the goal of increasing postsecondary access and success through graduation. Antonio is responsible for designing informative programs, fostering collaborative partnerships, and engaging experiences that prepare youth for life beyond high school. Antonio is excited to be on the CEO Team, working to inform, engage, and inspire the next generation of diverse leaders as they embark on the higher education journey. Antonio holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan.
Kim Lijana, PhD, leads the University of Michigan’s Center for Educational Outreach. She is responsible for supporting and advancing U-Ms commitment to pre-college learners and under-served schools in the state of Michigan. Dr. Lijana is passionate about providing life-changing opportunities for students and has developed a strong track record for increasing post-secondary education access and success for low-income, first generation, and underrepresented students. As a college counselor in Washington DC, 100% of her seniors applied to college and submitted their FAFSA, 90% enrolled immediately following high school graduation, and 63% graduated in four years in a community where only 8% of residents hold college degrees and in a school where all students were eligible for free and reduced school lunch. Dr. Lijana also built strong relationships with educators in Detroit to improve academic achievement as the managing director for school support with the Achievement Network (ANet); ANet partner schools outpaced the state by 5 percentile points and Wayne County by 10. Dr. Lijana holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Miami University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from The John Hopkins University, and a PhD in Higher Education from the University of Michigan. She also co-authored two books, Left Behind: Urban High Schools and the Failure of Market Reform and Using Action Inquiry in Engaged Research: An Ongoing Guide.
Patrick Mullen-Coyoy serves as program director for the Michigan College Advising Corps. A former adviser himself, his passion for college access continues through training and coaching advisers to better serve their students. As a recent MSI graduate from the University of Michigan School of Information, he is also eager to improve the design and implementation of educational technologies in K-12 and outreach spaces. Whether as a writer, designer, or college access advocate, he aims to create more engaging, accessible pathways for everyone to reach their postsecondary goals.
Marchelle serves as our administrative coordinator at CEO. She handles all the administrative needs for the Center and works closely with every team within CEO. She is a knowledgeable administrator with over 10 years of experience in a variety of roles. She has supported students and multiple constituencies across campus for over 6 years at units such as Medicine and CEW+. Marchelle is passionate about finding ways to support non-traditional students and promoting educational outreach to different underserved populations. She loves music and spending time with her family. Her hobbies are dancing, singing and writing. Marchelle was a non-traditional student herself. She completed her Bachelor’s at Eastern Michigan University in Criminology and Criminal Justice!
Corbin Palmer serves as the Outreach and Recruitment Coordinator for the Center of Educational Outreach. He previously worked as a Human Resources Administrator and University Development Counselor where he was able to work closely with students and staff at the University level. Corbin also has experience as a Sports and Recreation Director at a non profit organization where he was able to build community with local families and students by offering after school sports programming. He is passionate about creating an inclusive community and enjoys working with a collaborative team. Corbin holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Sport Management from the University of Tennessee and a Master of Science in Sports Analytics and Management from American University.
Laura Saavedra has served as a higher education professional for over thirteen years working at multiple post-secondary institutions in several functional areas across Ohio and Michigan. Currently, she serves as the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, GEAR UP Program Director. In this role and alongside her talented team, she is excited to lead an evidence-based, data-informed organizational framework and program design that will support CEO’s strategic plan to significantly increase college access and success outcomes across the State of Michigan. Throughout her career, she has been committed to ensuring equitable pathways of opportunity through advocating for and empowering underrepresented, first generation, and historically marginalized student groups. In addition to being a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Laura is a proud second generation Mexican-American, first-generation college graduate, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a Master of Arts in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University.
Sheri Samaha is a Senior Program Manager who implements and manages CEO outreach initiatives, including guiding and collaborating with U-M students and faculty interested in advancing their educational outreach activities. Sheri is deeply invested in U-M DEI initiatives and serves on CEO’s Outreach Consulting Team. She has developed expertise in providing resources that support faculty-led efforts with K-12 students and educators, broadening their impact and inspiring them to make educational outreach a core component of their role as U-M Faculty. Sheri holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Western Michigan University and a Master of Guidance and Counseling with a focus on Higher Education from Eastern Michigan University.
Jess Santi serves as the Associate Director of Development for the Center for Educational Outreach. In her role, Jess raises philanthropic support for CEO through lead annual giving, major giving, and corporate and foundation donors. Her region spans the continental US, but she focuses primarily on engaging donors in Southeast Michigan and the Midwest through high-quality engagement opportunities and stewardship. Jess comes to CEO with a background in education. Prior to her work in development, she was a third-grade and kindergarten teacher. Her time in the classroom shaped her personal and professional priorities, making educational access a pillar of her worldview. Jess holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in Social Foundations and Community Education from Eastern Michigan University.
Maria Scott-Smith serves as the Social Media Manager for the Center for Educational Outreach. She previously worked as an Administrative Assistant and Social Media Coordinator in higher education, where she worked closely with students, faculty, and staff. Maria is passionate about strategic storytelling and leveraging social media to help organizations achieve their goals. In her role, she helps CEO continue to tell its story to a broader audience and expand their social media presence in a way that is impactful and intentional. Maria holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Purdue University and a Master of Science in Strategic Communication from Butler University.
Marissa Taylor champions the Center for Educational Outreach (CEO) brand and strategy statewide. With expertise in data analysis, marketing, and design thinking, she infuses the CEO team and campus community with innovative, engaging ideas that promote college access and success. As a proud Latinx-Italian college graduate, Marissa brings a wealth of personal experience to her role, advocating for first-generation students and women in STEM/IT. Her journey from a first-gen student to a female Latinx professional is a testament to her resilience and passion for education. Marissa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric Communication and English-Creative Writing from Wheaton College, IL, and a Master of Science in Information (Library Science and Design Thinking) from the University of Michigan School of Information. Currently, she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology at Michigan State University. Marissa’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless commitment to empowering others through education.
Michael Turner serves as the Associate Director of K-12 Partnerships for the Center for Educational Outreach. Throughout the past nine years, he has worked for CEO serving in multiple capacities leading external partnerships and field programs, managing k-12 outreach initiative and currently consults U-M faculty, staff and department leads regarding best practices when exposing, engaging, and inspiring K-12 populations to post-secondary education. He is excited about streamlining and leveraging resources to create equitable space for all students to thrive. Over the last 12 years, Michael has developed expertise in community development, knowledge of U-M, K-12 and parent/guardian outreach and engagement, and working with at-risk youth.
Michael holds a Bachelors of Fine and Performing Arts with an emphasis on Theater from Southern Methodist University and a Master of Social Work from Eastern Michigan University.
MCAC Advisers
Keymari Smith is a proud 2026 graduate of Central Michigan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Applied Arts in Entrepreneurship with minors in Professional Sales and Real Estate. As an MCAC college adviser, Keymari is passionate about helping students confidently navigate their journey after high school and recognize the opportunities available to them. As a first-generation college graduate, she understands firsthand how meaningful guidance and encouragement can be throughout the college process. She is excited to connect with students, celebrate their accomplishments, and help them turn their goals into a plan for their future.
Bethany Carter serves as a first- year college adviser at Renaissance High School. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts in Film, Television, and Media. Bethany has been working alongside students and engaging in outreach in her previous role as a CEO CASA ambassador. Her outreach stems from knowing that education is one of the most powerful tools and assets one can have in this world. In her free time, she likes to read, write and hang out with friends and family.
Benjamin Colding serves as a first-year college adviser with the Michigan College Advising Corps at University High School Academy. He completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in Earth and Environmental Sciences. In their free time, they draw, play video games, watch anime and play tennis. In the future, Benjamin hopes to earn their PhD and work at a volcanic observatory!
Asha Dimoji serves as a first-year MCAC Adviser at Ypsilanti Community High School. A double alumna of the University of Michigan, she holds an MSW in Child & Family Welfare and a BA in Psychology, with certifications in School Social Work and Trauma-Informed Practices. Asha brings experience in youth development, program evaluation, and behavioral health research through U-M, Washtenaw Community College, Girls Group, Soar Detroit, and the Institute for Social Research. Her community involvement and research experience have contributed to peer-reviewed publications exploring youth, families, and older adults. A native Detroiter, Asha is passionate about helping young people unleash their resilience and pursue hopeful futures through strengths-based approaches. Beyond her work, she enjoys roller-skating, making others laugh (or at least trying to), and having gospel conversations.
Luis Jimenez-Ramirez serves as a first-year adviser at Western International High School in Southwest Detroit. After graduating from Cass Tech, he went on to obtain a B.A. in Psychology from Harvard and operate as a Harvard Brazil Office Postgraduate Fellow in São Paulo. Now, Luis is eager to return and support young people in his hometown. He is passionate about expanding access to education and opportunity, and he hopes to make a genuine, positive contribution to students’ lives through this role. In his free time, Luis enjoys following and playing sports, watching movies, and discovering new books for his collection.
Princess-J’Maria Mboup serves as a second-year college adviser at Southfield High School for the Arts and Technology. As a recent graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.S. in Biology, Princess-J’Maria has the pursuit of knowledge as a core value and believes that higher education has a place for all students. Following 2 years serving as a College Access and Success Ambassador, she is continuing her work in the college access arena to ensure that students understand that they can dream big, overcome obstacles, make positive changes, and find purpose and fulfillment in their adult lives after K-12.
LaMonica Reeves is a recent graduate from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. Currently, she serves as a first-year college adviser and will be working at River Rouge High School. She enjoys helping others the best way she can, which is through encouragement, bravery, and consistency! In her spare time, she likes to write poetry about her experiences with adulthood as well as hanging out with her beloved cat Junebug. Her goal for this year is to make new connections and inspire students to reach for the stars.
Valeria Rivera serves as a first-year adviser at Aztec Eagles Academy High School. She earned her B.A. in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Michigan, where she discovered her passion for empowering others to reach their full potential. Valeria started her advising career with Intend to Attend as a Student Ambassador all throughout her four years of college. In her role as an adviser, she is committed to helping students from historically underrepresented communities explore their options and navigate the transition to higher education with confidence. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling to every part of the world and hanging out with her friends and family.
Isha Saini is a first-year college and career advisor at Jackson High School. She is a recent graduate of the University of Michigan, where she earned her B.S. in Environmental Science and Pure Mathematics. She has held various mentorship and community engagement roles that shaped her passion for connecting with others and making a meaningful impact in their lives. As an adviser, she strives to uplift and encourage all students to pursue the educational and career paths they aspire to follow. Isha hopes to pursue a PhD in Complex Systems and become a professor, combining her interests in mathematics, environmental science, and education. In her free time, she enjoys playing cards with friends, journaling outdoors, and practicing with the Washtenaw Community Concert Band as a percussionist.
Alicia Valdez is a first-generation Michigan State University graduate with a background in Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and STEM. Returning to Holland High School, her alma mater, as an MCAC adviser allows her to give back to the community that helped shape her. Alicia is passionate about helping students from every background find where they belong, recognize their strengths, and feel supported as they navigate life beyond high school. Her multicultural background and commitment to education, advocacy, and equity shape the way she connects with students and communities. Outside of work, Alicia loves exploring nature, learning about plants and ecosystems, traveling to experience new cultures, and admiring lotus flowers—a reminder to keep growing through every season.
Grace Vandermolen is a recent graduate from Michigan State University with a B.S in neuroscience and psychology. As a first-generation graduate, she understands the hardship and resilience it takes to leave your comfort zone to pursue education. Grace likes working with students, especially those who are underserved, to raise awareness of higher education that can better serve them in the future. In her free time, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her family.
Mikel Vaughan-Coston is a second-year adviser at Mumford. He is an alumnus of the University of Michigan where he received his B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Mikel is a strong advocate for equity and strives to further reinforce the culture of sharing opportunity with his community. Mikel began his work in college access as a CASA student with CEO. In this role, he ensured that underrepresented students were able to envision themselves succeeding in post-secondary educational spaces. Being born and raised in Detroit has instilled within him a strong and unwavering sense of community, one that’s currently being fulfilled with his role as an MCAC adviser.
George Watkins is a college adviser serving at Chandler Park Academy High School. George graduated from Clark Atlanta University in 2016, with a Bachelors in Theatre Arts. After living in New York from 2016-2022, he discovered the importance of not only having a plan and pathways to choose from, but also the value of mentoring and helping young adults. George is passionate about motivating, inspiring and uplifting others to give their all in whatever they decide to pursue. When he is not advising, George trains others in martial arts, competes professionally in MMA, spends time with friends, and enjoys reading/watching his favorite comics/manga/anime.
Jordan Williams serves as a first-year college adviser at The School at Marygrove. She recently graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Afro-American and African Studies and in the future is pursuing law school. She has a fundamental belief that every student should have equal access to higher education. In undergrad she was the Community Outreach Chair of the Black Student Union. In this role she started and ran mentorship groups for Black students at the local public schools. Drawing on her experience in the public school system, she works to uplift, support and encourage her students to reach outside of their comfort zones.
GEAR UP Guides
Area of Study: Political Science. I engage in outreach work because knowing what you want to do is the easy part, yet having the people and resources to get you there is hard. Coming from a low-resourced community, many people think getting to where they want to be was next to impossible. However, I believe nothing is impossible. I feel we need to provide the resources to lower-income and resourced communities to help students achieve their goals. The Gear Up team at my high school provided me with those resources, and all I wish to do is give back what was given to me.
Area of Study: Political Science and Spanish (a minor in crime & justice and hopefully BA). I engage in outreach work because I come from a community with limited access to resources, and I’ve seen how meaningful support can make a real difference. Growing up in a low-income immigrant background motivates me to give back and support students who may not always feel seen or encouraged. Outreach, to me, is about helping create more equitable opportunities and making sure students know they belong.
Area of Study: Biology, Health, and Society, pre-dental track. Outreach programs were among my strongest motivators to keep striving towards college growing up. As a first-generation student from a low-resourced community, I found it hard to navigate applications, financial aid letters, and test prep, and to choose a pathway for myself. Programs like Wolverine Pathways expanded my network and access to college-prep resources, in turn giving me more confidence to embark on the journey of higher education. Higher education can be really intimidating, and I want to use my own experiences to be a resource for students who may be experiencing the same feelings and difficulties I once did.
Area of Study: Business Administration. Growing up in a low-resource community taught me how to be resilient and have high aspirations for what I wanted my future to look like. However, it also helped shape my core values: impact and empowerment. The college application process is one that has historically discriminated against marginalized communities and students. The entire process is complicated, especially for those whose families never pursued anything beyond high school. I engage in outreach to help dissolve those barriers, help others realize what is possible for their future in higher education, and more.
Area of Study: Political Science and Spanish (a minor in crime & justice and hopefully BA). I engage in outreach work because I come from a community with limited access to resources, and I’ve seen how meaningful support can make a real difference. Growing up in a low-income immigrant background motivates me to give back and support students who may not always feel seen or encouraged. Outreach, to me, is about helping create more equitable opportunities and making sure students know they belong.
Area of Study: Biology, Health, & Society. I engage in outreach work because I didn’t have anyone in my life who had already navigated the college and post-graduation process, which often made it feel overwhelming and unattainable. As a first-gen student, being part of support programs helped me discover my options, access critical resources, and believe that I truly belonged in these spaces. Now, as a GEAR UP guide, I’m passionate about giving students what I once needed by helping equip them with the skills, tools, and confidence to trust their abilities. I want students to feel empowered, capable, and supported as they work toward their own versions of success.
Area of Study: Community and Global Public Health. I’m passionate about outreach and education access because of the vulnerable position I was in during high school. While applying for college, I often felt overwhelmed, undersupported, and underprepared. Fortunately, programs like this one (Raise Scholars in particular) helped ease my anxieties and equip me with strategies and resources to be proactive about my future. As a GEAR UP Guide, I strive to supply students with the same support and encouragement I received to help them feel supported and launch their futures.
Area of Study: Computer Science. I engage in outreach work because I know firsthand how isolating it can feel to navigate academic and professional spaces without a clear roadmap or inherited guidance. As a first-generation student, I’m driven by the belief that access to information and mentorship should never depend on who you know or where you come from. Outreach allows me to turn my own uncertainty into clarity for others, bridging gaps, building confidence, and making systems feel human instead of intimidating. At its core, this work is about accountability: if I’ve benefited from support, I have a responsibility to extend it forward.