Meet the Team
Yessy Gonzalez
Yessy Gonzalez holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Central Washington University. She is currently completing her Master’s in Elementary Education at Grand Canyon University. As a first-generation college graduate, Yessy is passionate about supporting students whether it’s teaching in the classroom, guiding them through the college application process, or equipping her team with the tools and resources needed to make a meaningful impact.
Fun fact: Yessy has traveled to eight different countries & her favorite being Italy. Her dream is to one day spend a summer living in Italy with her dog, Remy.
Erick Mendoza
Erick Mendoza holds a BSB in Marketing from Eastern Washington University. His area of expertise include navigating college applications and financial aid. He is a first generation graduate and speaks Spanish
Fun Fact: Erick enjoys running, reading, and music (in all forms but especially concerts).
You can reach Erick at erickm@bigbend.edu or (509) 793-
Jacqueline Contreras
Jacqueline Bonilla holds an AA-DTA general studies from Columbia Basin College, and a BS in Psychology from Washington State University. She is currently working on a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University.
Fun Fact: Jacqui lives on a vineyard with her husband, their dog Neo, their cat Kiwi, and 3 chickens. She enjoys traveling and the outdoors, always ready for the next adventure.
Jacqui can be contacted at jacquelinec@bigbend.edu or (509) 793-2332.
Alan Park
Alan Park holds an AA&S DTA from Big Bend Community College, and a BSB in Marketing with a minor in Communication Studies from Eastern Washington University. His areas of expertise: Business/Operations management, team building and logistics.
Fun Facts: Alan loves trying new experiences including traveling, hiking, and eating new foods. He enjoys gaming and playing Magic the Gathering with friends!
You can contact Alan at alanp@bigbend.edu or (509) 793-2327.
Karina Elizarraraz
Karina Elizarraraz holds an AA & S-DTA from Big Bend Community College, and a BA in Social Science Emphasizing in Psychology, Human Development, and Business Administration from Washington State University. Her areas of expertise include helping students to prepare for post-secondary education.
Fun Fact: Karina is a First-Generation student and enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys cooking, traveling, and going to the beach. GO COUGS!
You can reach Karina at karinae@bigbend.ed or (509) 793-2328.
Ninfa Rodriguez
Ninfa Rodriguez holds a BA in Social Work with a minor in Spanish from Eastern Washington University. She is a bilingual and bicultural first-generation college graduate. Her areas of expertise include assisting students with college and financial aid applications.
Fun Facts: Ninfa cares for over 20 plants and enjoys spending quality time with family and friends. She also loves arts and crafts, traveling, hiking, and trying new foods.
You can reach Ninfa at ninfar@bigbend.edu or (509) 793-2338.