Caren Fernandez, Director

I was born in Salinas and raised in Prunedale, California. I graduated with a BA in psychology, a BS in business administration with an option in MIS, and MA in education from Chico State. I have been fortunate to work with various TRiO programs such as Upward Bound and Talent Search and now Student Support Services. I enjoy working with students; there isn't anything I would rather be doing at this point in my life. I am an open-minded, goal-oriented person, who enjoys spending time with my family, friends, and my dog. I love watching and playing sports as well as traveling.

Megan Kurtz, Academic Coordinator

I grew up in Bakersfield, California attending local public schools and spent two years at Bakersfield Junior College before transferring to Chico State in 2000. I graduated with a degree in communication in 2004 and decided that the charm and unique energy of Chico was where I wanted to make my home and start a family. Guiding students to find what journey is best for them is a true passion of mine and I enjoy seeing people strive to reach beyond themselves to succeed. My husband, Stuart (also a Chico State Alumni), and I enjoy being outside in the open spaces that Chico provides. We especially like riding our cruiser bikes in the park and being downtown. Please stop by the EOP/SSS office and say hello. I would love to hear your story.

Thang Ho, Educational Data and Technology Specialist

I moved to Chico in 1996 and attended both Butte Community College and CSU, Chico. I graduated with a double major in business marketing and management information systems in 2002. My wife Laura and I have been married since 2004 and we have a wonderful daughter name Caitlin. We have been blessed to live and work in a wonderful community like Chico. Please stop by and say “Hi”.

Carol Robinson, Publications, Public Events, and Technology Specialist

I have been lucky to work for the Educational Opportunity Program for over 20 years both as a student and staff. I have a variety of duties including coordinating the EOP graduation celebration, producing EOP publications, and serving as an advisor for the Latino Graduation Celebration.

I am a Chico State alumna with a bachelor's in art with an emphasis in art history. I love being a mom to my twins, Maya and Kellen, and spending time with my husband.

Jeanette McMurry, Office Manager

My family moved to Chico in 1961. I grew up attending Chico schools and graduated from CSU, Chico with a BA in history and a minor in English. I have had the privilege of working as a staff member on campus since 1995 and am delighted to be a part of the EOP office and educational mission. I am very blessed to have four wonderful children, a darling daughter-in-law, and family and friends to laugh and love with. Some of my favorite things to do are reading, walking, singing, and bike-riding in Bidwell Park.

Katy O'Bryan, Administrative Support Assistant

I have had the good fortune to be born in Chico and I have lived in either Hamilton City or Chico almost my entire life. My husband Steve and I have been married since 1982 and we have four great kids, Conor, Grady, Clare and Ian. Together we have owned and operated Pullins Cyclery since 1984. We are very active in the Chico community and feel we are privileged to live in our great town.

Being on the staff of EOP allows me the pleasure of working with and for you as you experience the adventure of college life. I am here to support you as you attain your educational goals so don't hesitate to come by and ask for my assistance.

Andrea Sanchez, Program Advisor

I am originally from Hamilton City and have lived in this area my entire life. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology in 2009, and am currently working towards my Master’s in Education. I am the first person in my family to graduate from college and eventually will be the first to receive a Master’s degree. I am the oldest of four and love spending time with my family. I have been working with low-income, first-generation students for the past five years and love it. I find great joy in building relationships with students and being able to help them become successful. My door is always open so please come by and say hello.

Pheng Yang, Information Technology Support

Hello, everyone! I was born in Yuba City and raised in Marysville, California. Growing up with 7 brothers and 2 sisters I grew to learn how to communicate with people very well. I'm a first generation student and the 8th in my family to enter a college. I moved to Chico in the summer of 2008 as a freshman to California State University, Chico, studying in Mechanical Engineering. I’m involved with clubs and organizations on campus and enjoy spending time outside with friends and family. The Chico atmosphere is such a warm feeling that pulls you right in at home. It’s a pleasure working with EOP/SSS students and staff.

Maria Garcia-Gonzalez, Peer Advisor

Ge Yang, Peer Advisor