Taylor Family Center

Victoria Ruiz is the newest Assistant Director at the Taylor Family Center for Student Success. In her role, she supports first-generation and/or limited-income Sophomore Soar students through engaging programming focused on academic excellence, mentorship, and leadership development. Through her work with the Sophomore Soar Mentorship Program, Victoria connects Taylor STAR students to faculty and staff […]

Loren Owens is a proud first-generation graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Communications and Management. Currently, she serves as the Academic Success Coordinator for the Taylor Family for Student Success, where she manages general operations, supports team programming, and acts as a key liaison for students, faculty, and staff. With over 14 years in […]

As someone who cares deeply about students, Tarsha serves as an innovative and compassionate higher education leader with a wealth of experience across student affairs and academic services. With more than 10 years of experience, she is committed to creating environments where students can excel and maximize their potential. Her background and skillset in strategic […]

Tanya serves as the Director of TRIO Student Support Services, where she takes pride in fostering growth and collaboration while seeking effective and efficient solutions. Her extensive professional career in higher education encompasses a wide range of experience, from research and evaluation to strategic operations. As a first-generation college graduate, Tanya considers it a privilege […]

Liliana serves as a TRIO Academic Success Coordinator. She’s from Dallas, Texas and is an SMU alumni. She’s happy to talk to you about anything college related! “As a McNair scholar at SMU, I was a part of a first generation program like the TRIO Scholars that helped me get the chance to present research […]

Corine “Coco” Jones works as an Assistant Director for TRIO Student Support Services. She primarily advises junior and senior TRIO Scholars.

Dr. Jennifer Alanis has more than 16 years of experience in higher education and student affairs, with expertise in leadership development, intercultural relations, and student success. She has directed programs, training, and strategic initiatives that strengthen campus communities and support student engagement. She earned her BS from Loyola University Chicago with minors in Spanish, women’s studies, […]