As a Colorado Springs Native, I find great pride in this city and contributing back to my community,
and I want that for all of our students as well. I spent my time in College as a non-traditional
Student who had to navigate the ups and downs of registering for classes, navigating my portal,
buying books, applying for financial aid, all on my own. My hopes for you in the Promise Program is that you do not have to go at this alone.  Excited to lead this team and YOU to your future success so you to can contribute back to your community. 

Hometown: Colorado Springs

My walk-up song would be: Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen

My favorite class in college: COM 1015 Public Speaking – I was scared to take this and had the option for something easier, but I chose something to be uncomfortable with. It helped me in so many ways in my college journey all the way to my current role as a leader.

I’m a Cuban-Puerto Rican born and raised in the sunny state of Florida, right by the famous (or infamous, depending on how you look at it) city of Miami. I moved to Colorado Springs in 2022, after being called to the mountains on a visit to Colorado, and have been here since! I’ve been in the Higher Education space since I started my college journey back in 2019, tutoring, recruiting, and advising.  

Hometown: Hialeah, FL

The quote or mantra I live by: Be curious about the world, even just a little bit! It opens up your perspective so much by doing so. 

Something I struggled with in college: How to navigate college and use all my resources. I didn’t have ANY help going to college, so I had to figure out everything essentially by myself. I want to make that easier for first-time-in-college students, so they don’t face the same hurdles as I did. 

I am a neurodivergent, first-generation learner who grew up in Cedaredge, CO, moving to Colorado Springs in 2013 to get my BA in English Rhetoric/Writing at UCCS. I have worked at PPSC in various roles since 2016, so I know a lot about this college and how it can support you! 

I promise to always be a safe space for you to discuss your needs, concerns, and accomplishments. No matter where you are on your educational journey, I am here to help! 

Alma Mater: UCCS

My useless superpower (something quirky I'm weirdly good at): Gift wrapping! 

Advice I would give my 18-year-old self? Be kind to yourself. You are worthy as you are. 

Hey there! I’m Dre Guy, born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland, and a proud graduate of John F. Kennedy High School in Wheaton. I began my academic journey at Pikes Peak State College, where I discovered my passion for education, and I’m currently continuing that path at UCCS, studying Student Affairs in Higher Education. My undergraduate degree was in Business Administration, but these days, I’m all about helping students find their purpose, stay on track, and thrive in and outside the classroom. I’m a U.S. Army veteran, a coach at heart, and someone who believes in showing up, not just for work—but for people. 

Hometown: Takoma Park, MD

I wish I could instantly become an expert in:  Financial literacy and wealth-building. Too many people, especially in underserved communities, aren’t taught how to manage money, invest, or build long-term financial security. I’d love to master that space so I can educate others, break generational cycles, and create opportunities not just for myself, but for those around me. Money doesn’t buy happiness, but understanding it can unlock freedom, options, and peace of mind. 

A food I love that most people don't: Crabcakes. Born and raised in Maryland, it’s in my DNA—but I’ve learned a lot of folks in Colorado don’t mess with seafood the same way. More for me!

My name is Jackal and I am excited to be one of your Promise Program Scholar Advisors. I identify as working class, white, and part of the LGBTQ community. Like many of you, I am a first-generation college student whose parents didn't really know how to get me to college or support me through it, including figuring out FAFSA or registering for classes.  I am passionate about diversity, inclusion, and belonging. I lived in Mexico City for ten years and I speak pretty good Spanish. I look forward to learning about you and your culture, and identities. I will listen to you, respect you, and do everything I can to make your college journey a positive experience.  Make an appointment to see me anytime or just drop by.  

Alma Maters: Green River Community College, Pacific Lutheran University, Florida International University, and currently studying at UCCS

Go-to karaoke songs: Too many to name, but my top three are Creep by Radiohead, Like a Stone by Audioslave, and Crocodile Rock by Elton John

My useless superpower (something quirky I'm weirdly good at): I make up jingles about people I know to popular songs.

I am a member of the Navajo Nation and grew up in both New Mexico and Michigan.  I furthered her education at the University of Notre Dame and later helped to form the Native American Alumni of Notre Dame Association.  After undergraduate studies were complete, I volunteered for a year long service project which took me to Goodyear, AZ.  For the past few decades, I have  worked at Colorado Springs School District 11 as a school social worker.  In addition to working with students with special needs, I worked with students in the Indian Education program at District 11. Now, I am excited to work with students who are furthering their education beyond K-12.  I would like to encourage, assist and guide Native American students on their college career.  As a former Chief Manuelito scholar, I agree with Manuelito’s statement, “Education is a ladder.  Tell our People to take it.”

Alma Maters: University of Notre Dame, Arizona State University 

My favorite class in college: I loved fiction writing class because I have always been an accomplished writer.  Making my own stories was challenging but fun.

I work with college students because: I want to support students to achieve their educational goals and positively contribute their gifts to the world.

My name is Keyshon Cooks, and I was born and raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I love this city and am passionate about giving back to the community that raised me. I have a bachelor’s degree in communication with a minor in criminal justice, as well as a master’s degree in public administration. I am excited to support you all as you explore your interests, discover your strengths, and work toward your educational and career goals. I look forward to helping you recognize your potential, navigate college, and build a strong foundation for your future.

The quote or mantra I live by: There are 2 things you can control, your effort and your attitude.  

I work with college students because: Being a positive role model and letting students know they can live a high-quality life doing what they love and not just what they see on social media or what makes them the most money. 

Go-to karaoke song: Love by Keyshia Cole 

Hello all! I’m Marley Dunaway (née Stuever-Williford). I’m a Promise coach and life-long learner and scholar. I love college; the campuses and libraries, the students and professors, the environment of learning… it all sings to me. I have been working in and/or attending college for more than a decade now, and I always tell my students the best way to survive college is to fall in love with learning—it makes dealing with everything else easier. If you want to learn how, book an appointment with me! Helping people achieve their academic dreams is my calling.

Alma Maters: UCCS (B.A. Communication), BGSU (M.A. Pop Culture), UChicago (M.A. Digital Studies)

My go-to karaoke song: Chasing Pavements by Adele is a favorite of mine. I’ve also been known to bust out Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars when I need a crowd-pleaser. 

Something I struggled with in college: Time management and procrastination were two big struggles for me in undergrad. I had to learn how to track my assignments and budget my time to keep up with the demands of my classes. It took me forever to start using a planner regularly, but now I can’t live without one!

Hitche! vmvliketv Cvmpe-Vhvlvklke. I am Chicana and belong to the Seminole, Mvskoke, and Choctaw Nations of Oklahoma. I was raised by my grandparents in Southwest Denver and obtained my undergraduate degree in Critical Race and Ethnic Studies at the University of Denver. I was a Denver Scholarship Foundation Scholar and a full Pell Grant recipient. I love to sew and hang out with friends.

My walk-up song would be: Boom Bap by Doechii

My favorite class in college: Native North America: Anthropology 3000. I connected so many dots in this class, I had so many “ah ha!” moments that would help align my personal and academic aspirations. My professor and the class content helped me understand that my education extends further than just myself.

I wish every new student would: Join at least one club or student activity! Even if you only attend one meeting, you are opening doors to build connections and community! It is a huge motivator for classwork!

I’m a Colorado Springs native with experience performing French horn in orchestras and teaching K-12 music. I love supporting students so that they can increase their achievement. Besides working at PPSC, I play the horn in orchestras around town and teach French horn. In my free time, I enjoy skiing, cycling, and cooking. I value authenticity, courage, and solution-oriented thinking with a growth mindset.

Hometown: Colorado Springs

I wish I were an expert in: Playing the piano 

Something people are surprised to learn about me: I've cycled to the top of Pikes Peak!

I am originally from Utah, with roots in Nayarit, Mx. I’ve worked in educational settings for 10+ years, and I am an advocate for trauma-informed and equity-centered education. My B.S is in Sociology with a minor in Chicano/a/x studies, and my M.Ed is in Student Affairs. I strive to earn my Doctorate one day. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, learning about food, and rock climbing.

Hometown: Salt Lake City, UT

Advice I would give my 18-year-old self: There are more than two options most of the time, just got to find them or create them.  

I wish every new student would: Ask for help. If one person doesn’t give you the answer, go find someone who will help you find answers, go to someone else who will help you get where you need to be.