Advisory Council

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

The Advisory Council highlights the importance of equity and promoting cultural competency in education, which is an extension of the work I have done in the past. I want to continue to support efforts to promote quality and success for students and families.

Jennifer Maier | Position 1

Organization: Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic 
Role: Community Education Services Manager
Favorite thing to do the our region: I am a big fan of the outdoors and exploring new places with my pups. There are many trails and canyons to navigate in the Yakima Valley. I am working my way up and down the Valley exploring the terrain and viewing the beauty this place has to offer.

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

Working in the field of special education, my passion is to advocate and push forth change for addressing systemic barriers and creating a more inclusive world for all. Getting to support the recruitment and retention of BIPOC educators is so vital to bringing a variety of perspectives, lived experiences, and cultural knowledge.
 

Julia Tobiness | Position 2Organization: Educational Service District 105
Role: Special Services Content Specialist - Head Start
Favorite thing to do the our region: My favorite thing to do in our region is be at an outdoor concert or event from spring to fall. Places like the Gorge and Marymoor Park are my happy place because I get to listen to music, eat good food, and be outdoors! 

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

By joining the LEADER Advisory Council, I hope to bridge gaps in access, amplify underrepresented voices, and co-create policies that promote inclusive educational ecosystems. My journey—navigating uncharted academic terrain to becoming a resource for others—reflects the Council’s core values of leadership, equity, and empowerment.

Joel Lupercio | Position 3Organization: Educational Service District 105
Role: Transition Content Coordinator | Special Services
Favorite thing to do the our region: One of my favorite things to do is explore the scenic trails around Cowiche Canyon and the Yakima River with family and friends. We enjoy the beautiful views, especially during wildflower season. I also enjoy visiting local farms and restaurants for fresh produce and fun seasonal activities.

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

I joined the Advisory Council to assist in attracting teachers and support staff to the teaching profession as we serve a diverse population of students and community members.

Hector Mendez | Position 4Organization: Yakima School District
Role: T&L Executive Director of Learning & Leadership
Favorite thing to do the our region: I enjoy camping and fishing in our beautiful region with family and friends.  

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?:

•  ESD 105 serves a diverse population   with a plethora of challenges. I believe   that by better supporting educators,   particularly BIPOC educators in this   region, we can further support and   engage students.

Abbagail Gomez | Position 5Organization: Granger High School 
Role: Secondary Spanish Teacher
Favorite thing to do the our region: I love enjoying the four seasons by getting outside the house with my daughter.

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

I joined the advisory council to support BIPOC educators —not only to ensure equitable opportunities & practices, but to ensure our communities have opportunities to be taught and led by qualified educators who come from & understand the communities they serve. I believe in the power of representation & want every student to see leaders who look like them—leaders they can look up to & aspire to be.

Ruben Saldivar | Position 6Organization: Toppenish Middle School 
Role: Principal
Favorite thing to do the our region: When I’m not at school, I love spending time with my family camping and traveling throughout the region.  

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

I was inspired to join the Advisory Council because of my own journey. Having faced many of the challenges that BIPOC educators encounter when pursuing administrative roles, I’m committed to mentoring and supporting future leaders. Through the Advisory Council, I hope to help create more pathways for diverse educators to step into leadership roles.

Enrique Romero | Position 7Organization: Kirkwood Elementary School - Toppenish SD
Role: Principal
Favorite thing to do the our region: To unwind, I love spending time outdoors—camping, fishing, and taking in the beauty of our region with family and friends.

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

When I heard about this council I wanted to be part of something that could affect real change within our communities. 

Jensie Rosenow | Position 8Organization: South Central Workforce Council
Role: Workforce Development
Favorite thing to do the our region: My favorite thing to do in our region is to find new fishing spots!  My family loves being outside by bodies of water!

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

I am delighted to have this opportunity to foster community partnerships in educational settings with ESD 105. I believe in aligning goals, engaging stakeholders, and developing collaborative programs that benefit both students and the community. By leveraging resources and celebrating successes, we can create lasting impacts. 

Monica Medrano | Position 9Organization: Central Washington University (Yakima)
Role: Eastside University Centers Director

Favorite thing to do the our region: I enjoy learning about, appreciating, and celebrating the rich land and culture it has to offer, such as visiting local vineyards, savoring delicious Mexican cuisine, spending a day playing on the river, or enjoying a concert at the Gorge Amphitheater.

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

As a first-generation college graduate born to immigrant parents, I faced challenges navigating the education system. The support of my high school teachers helped me succeed—and now, through the Advisory Council, I hope to pay it forward by uplifting educators and helping more students thrive.
 

Kassandra Mendez | Position 10Organization: College Success Foundation
Role: Program Manager
Favorite thing to do the our region: One of my favorite things to do in the area is explore both established and up-and-coming local small businesses—not only to show my support, but also to expand my palate and learn more about what our community has to offer.

 What inspired you to join the         Advisory Council?

Supporting students and breaking down barriers that prevent them from pursuing higher education inspired me to join the Advisory Council. I’m motivated by being part of meaningful change and serving as a reliable resource for others.

Viviana Campos | Position 11Organization: Central Washington University (Yakima)
Role: Center Operation Specialist
Favorite thing to do the our region: One of my favorite things to do in our region is getting involved in local events that bring the community together. I’m committed to supporting small businesses and nonprofit organizations—it’s a great way to stay connected.