Team Members
Meet the Aspires Team
*Not Pictured: Johanna Reyes
Jayne Gibson
Executive Director
MaKayla Oxley
Early Childhood Navigator
I enjoy working with ages newborn to 6 because those first few years of life are so crucial for future success and development. Being able to help children access positive, nurturing, and stimulating experiences to help them grow and succeed is an amazing feeling! I also love that my work not only connects me so closely with the children I work with but with their parents as well. It’s not easy to be a parent and sometimes we all need a little help, support, or someone that can lend their time, through my work I’m able to support parents where they need it. Early Childhood is a professional and personal, as a mom of three, love for me.
Favorite Quote: “…The things that divide us are far less IMPORTANT than those that connect us.” - Rachel Naomi Remen
Ogud Oman
Middle School Navigator
I really like it when the students walk up to me and ask for help. I also like seeing the growth in the students. I like my job because I know I'm making a difference in a person's life for the better.
I’m looking forward to more effort and good grades.
Jessica Anderson
Parent Engagement Coordinator & Mentorship Coordinator
Sharing, supporting, and connecting families with a warm hand off to the resources that support them is something I truly enjoy about my role with Austin Aspires. It is tough to navigate the resources in a community, especially for those who are new to calling Austin “home”. No need is too small, and I hope our community knows that you don’t have to do it alone. We are a part of a thriving community and there is a place and role for each person whether that be a parent or student. It is important to know how your role can shape the outcome for your family.
Favorite Quote: “If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive.”
― Brené Brown
Jwokamer Debock
Director of Student Programs
My favorite part of my job is seeing the students and families we work with succeed. I love seeing the "ohhh" moments and smiles on students faces when they do something they didn't think they could do.
Favorite Quote: “Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough.”
― Mary McLeod Bethune
Jacque Ruiz
High School Navigator
I previously interned with Austin Aspires and learned many techniques to engage with students and help them with their academic goals.
I look forward to meeting new students and seeing familiar faces return.
I'm excited to start helping the students and getting them the help they need to be successful in school!
Jesus Alvarez
Middle School Navigator
My favorite part of the job is spending time with the kids and being able to play soccer with them.
Favorite Quote: “ Failure is success in progress, never give up on what you really want to do."
Johanna Reyes
High School Navigator
I am excited to help our High School students succeed academically, emotionally and socially.
I hope to inspire them to become everything they are capable of being. It fills my heart to know I can make a positive difference in someone’s life.