Meet the TRIO Staff
Meet the Staff
Jennifer earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from APU in 2021. Her journey with
TRIO started her freshman year, as an undergraduate TRIO Student Support Services
participant, and continued as a Summer Academic Leader for TRIO Upward Bound from
2018-19. As a first-generation student, she knows the importance of community, as
it allows the opportunity to learn together and lean on others when faced with obstacles.
Jennifer believes in the power of mentorship, knowing that it takes a village to ensure
academic and professional success from the classroom to everyday experiences. She
continues to use her passion for helping others, ensuring that students feel welcomed
and empowered to take their academic and professional development to the next level.
Jennifer’s favorite thing about working at APU is being able to integrate her faith
into her everyday interactions as she helps students find their calling and enhance
their strengths.
Fabiola earned a BA in English and Chicana/o and Central American Studies from the
University of California, Los Angeles, and an MEd in Educational Counseling from the
University of Southern California. As a former Upward Bound participant and a first-generation
professional, she sees her role of student support specialist as an opportunity to
give back to her community and help first-generation students get to and through higher
education. She is passionate about college access and success, and believes that mentorship
and guidance are key components. Fabiola strives to create an inclusive and welcoming
environment for students.
Maria, a dedicated and motivated first-generation professional, is the administrative
coordinator for the APU TRIO Upward Bound and Student Support Services programs. Maria
earned a BA in Public Relations from Azusa Pacific University in 2023. As a former
TRIO participant, she aspires to create a welcoming environment for students who want
to thrive in college. With a passion for organization and a commitment to excellence,
Maria plays a pivotal role in ensuring that TRIO programs run smoothly and efficiently.
From managing daily operations to supporting staff and students, Maria’s warm, approachable
demeanor is what shines through. Whether coordinating events, handling inquiries,
or streamlining administrative processes, Maria is available to support the mission
of Student Support Services and enhance the education experience for everyone interested
in what TRIO has to offer.
Stefanie earned a BS degree in Organizational Leadership and a Doctor of Philosophy
in Higher Education from Azusa Pacific University. She also earned a Master of Education
degree in Learning Design and Technology from the University of Southern California.
As a higher education scholar with a passion for engaging undergraduate and graduate
students, Stefanie specializes in mentor training and career development strategies,
particularly for students from underrepresented and often marginalized populations.
Utilizing her education, skills, and lived experience as a first-generation college
student, along with the TRIO McNair Scholars Program offerings, her goal as McNair
director is to foster an environment of belonging and success for McNair participants,
in order to increase graduate degree awards for students from underrepresented segments
of society.