Steven Salter, Director: EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs/FYRST

My name is Steve and I am the Director of EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs and FYRST. I earned a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. I have worked in EOPS since 2018 and prior to that, worked in Post-Secondary Disability Support Services for approximately 12 years. I love to cook, travel and run to stay healthy. I love working in EOPS, because I have an opportunity to remove barriers for students as they continue on their educational journeys.

Dina Marinescu, Supervisor: EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs/FYRST

Hi, I’m Dina, and I proudly serve as the Supervisor for the Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) at Palomar College. Since 2017, I’ve been dedicated to empowering students through EOPS at Cuyamaca College and Southwestern College. Before diving into the world of higher education, I honed my skills in the private sector for over five years in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL.

As a first-generation college graduate, I intimately understand the hurdles and triumphs of navigating higher education. My passion lies in ensuring that EOPS students have the support, resources, and encouragement they need to succeed and flourish at Palomar College. Every day, I strive to make a positive impact on their lives and help them achieve their dreams.

When I’m not at work, you’ll find me exploring new places, listening to podcasts, or enjoying quality time with family and friends. I believe that a strong, supportive community is the cornerstone of success, and I’m committed to fostering that environment for our students.

FULL-TIME COUNSELORS

Dr. Christina Dawber, Chair: EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs/FYRST

My name is Christina and I am the full-time CalWORKs Counselor and Chair of EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs/FYRST. I have been serving CalWORKs and EOPS students for over a decade and love my job. As a single mother and a former first-generation college student, I feely deeply connected to the student parents and first gen students I guide, support, and root for. Like many of you, I started my higher education at Palomar College. From there, I went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies from UC Berkeley, a Master of Arts in Multi-Cultural Counseling from SDSU, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Social Justice from UCSD. My doctoral research explored self-compassion in BIPOC CalWORKs single mother students. When I’m not working, I enjoy backpacking around the world with my ten year-old son. Hablo Español.

Veronica Aguilera, Counselor: EOPS/CARE

My name is Veronica and I am a full-time EOPS and CARE Counselor. I have worked in the EOPS program at Palomar College for 15 years. I received my Master’s degree in Counseling, with an emphasis in Student Development in Higher Education, from California State University and received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from University of California, Irvine. I have assisted students with academic, career and personal counseling and have facilitated various student support and healing circles for Palomar College’s CARE and CalWORKs students. In addition to my counselor role, I have taught a variety of Counseling courses at Palomar College. My hobbies include painting and reading. One of my favorite things about my work at Palomar College is connecting with students, listening to their stories and personal journeys.  Hablo Español.

Leslie Aguilar, Counselor: NextUp

My name is Leslie and I am a full-time NextUp Counselor. I am a former first-generation college student who attended community college and eventually received my M.A. in Education Counseling from San Diego State University. During my free time, I enjoy painting, writing, and creating. As a former EOPS student, I dreamed of one day coming back and helping a new generation of students, walking a similar path as my own, obtain their educational goals. Hablo Español

Elizabeth Salinas, Counselor: EOPS/CARE

My name is Elizabeth and I am a full-time EOPS and CARE Counselor.I earned my Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Multicultural Counseling from San Diego State University. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development from Cal State San Marcos. I’ve been working in the EOPS Program at Palomar College since 2016. Some of my hobbies are watching documentaries, going on walks, and cooking vegan recipes. What I find most rewarding about working in EOPS is seeing the transformation our students go through and being part of their educational journey at Palomar College. Hablo Español.

PART-TIME COUNSELORS

Jaymie Gonzaga, Counselor: EOPS

My name is Jaymie and I am a part-time EOPS Counselor. I have been working in EOPS since 2000 (Palomar, 2004). I am retired military (USMC) and received my Associate degree in Liberal Arts from San Diego Miramar College. Transferred to San Diego State University and earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. I received my Master of Arts degree in Counseling from the University of San Diego. I enjoy travelling and keeping fit. I am an avid collector of the Nissan 200sx (1984-1988) and enjoy restoring them for car shows and road trips. As a former EOPS student, EOPS Peer Advisor and now EOPS Counselor, I have always loved working with this extreme diverse population of students. As a former foster youth, I am fully aware of the challenges and obstacles that EOPS student’s face. I am most proud when I see EOPS students overcome their challenges and see the end-result……graduation!

Charles Alexander, Counselor: EOPS

Andrew Anderson, Counselor: EOPS

Elias Purmul, Counselor: EOPS

OUTREACH

Omar Sanchez, Outreach Specialist: EOPS

My name is Omar Sanchez. I currently serve as the Outreach Specialist for the EOPS program. I am a proud first-generation EOPS student alumnus. While working in higher education, I have had the opportunity to work for Paths to Horizon, TRIO SSS and now EOPS. Transitioning into EOPS has been an awesome experience. During my time at Palomar College, I’ve had the privilege to serve as a mentor for the Puente program. Being in higher education has allowed me to understand the importance of advocating and better supporting our student community.

As a community college transfer, I received my A.A in Sociology at MiraCosta College. I then transferred to CSU Northridge to receive my B.A in Sociology. Eventually, I received my M.A in Education with emphasis in Counseling at San Diego State University. While doing my master’s program, I also received a graduate certificate in Restorative Practices & Trauma Informed Care. I am thankful for all the mentors I have had along my educational journey.

SUPPORT STAFF

Griselda Ramirez, Administrative Specialist: CalWORKs

My name is Griselda and I am the CalWORKs Administrative Specialist. I have been working in EOPS/CARE and CalWORKs programs since 2008. I enjoy hiking, biking, traveling and spending time with family. One thing that I truly enjoy working in EOPS/CARE and CalWORKs is to be a part of our students’ growth and academic success. Hablo Español.

Sandra Brown, Administrative Specialist

My name is Sandra and I am an EOPS Administrative Specialist. I received an AA in General Studies at Palomar College. I was a CalWORKs student worker, EOPS hourly, and in 2004, I became a full-time EOPS employee at Palomar College. I enjoy painting pictures, sewing, and gardening. Working in the EOPS Department provides me the opportunity to give back by assisting students with needed services on behalf of the EOPS Department. Hablo Español.

Angela Stanley, Counseling Support Specialist

My name is Angela and I am a Student Support Specialist II. I have been with the EOPS program at Palomar College since January of 2000. I love anything Disney, traveling and my Grandsons. I love being a part of the EOPS team and supporting students along their educational journey. Hablo Español.