Nancy, a first-generation Mexican American from Western Kansas, is passionate about community engagement and marketing. A graduate of Fort Hays State University with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing, she began her career at a tech agency, where she honed her digital marketing skills and gained experience in the dynamic world of technology and business. Now based in Kansas City, Nancy continues to grow professionally while staying committed to representing her community. With a strong dedication to fostering meaningful connections, she actively engages in local initiatives that uplift and support those around her.

Andres Mata is a 2017 graduate of Salina South High School and a 2021 graduate of Bethany College. With a lifelong commitment to public service, Andres has been actively involved in politics and community engagement since the age of nine.

At just eleven years old, Andres led a successful fundraising campaign for Haiti, raising over $3,400 in two weeks. By the age of thirteen, he was appointed to the Salina Human Relations Commission by Mayor Norm Jennings. His subsequent appointment to the Salina City Planning Commission from 2015 to 2017 further solidified his role as a young voice in local government and community development.

During his time at Bethany College, Andres was recognized for his leadership and community impact. He was awarded the 2019-2020 Student Leader Community Award for his research on food insecurity, which sparked community conversations and ultimately led to the creation of the Dala Pantry in Lindsborg.

From 2017 to 2021, Andres gained valuable experience lobbying on behalf of everyday Americans in Washington, D.C.

When not engaged in civic activities, Andres enjoys traveling, following professional sports, and spending time with loved ones. 

Fatima Contreras, a 2016 graduate of Salina Central High School, has been studying at Fort Hays State University since then and plans to earn her Bachelor's in Social Work in May 2021, followed by a Master’s degree. Actively involved on campus, she has worked as a Student Assistant for Student Engagement, participated in The National Society of Leadership and Success, served as a Welcome and Orientation Leader, and contributed to the Hispanic American Leadership Organization and Hispanic College Institute, earning the NASPA IV-W Rising Star Award for her leadership. Currently holding the title of Miss Hays Latina, she advocates for mental health awareness in immigrant families, emphasizing the need for resources and support. Passionate about immigrant rights, equality, and mental health, Fatima also enjoys concerts, traveling, soccer, adventure, and spending time with loved ones.

Erick Mendez is currently a junior at Fort Hays State University, majoring in Construction Management. Originally born in Mexico, he moved to Kansas City at the age of 13. Driven by a strong desire to make a positive impact on his community, he is a firm believer in the reciprocity of knowledge and is always eager to learn, grow, and contribute wherever he can.

Kelin Rodriguez is a recent graduate of Bethany College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Pre-Med Biology. With aspirations of becoming a physician, he is committed to continuing his education and gaining the experience necessary to pursue a career in the medical field. Kelin remains dedicated to achieving his dream and making a meaningful impact through healthcare.

Nailea Mata is a current student of Sacred Heart High School. She is a part of the Band playing the flute since age of 9. She qualified and attended the 3-2-1A Kansas State Debate tournament and placed 18th this past January. She is passionate about music and art. She heavily enjoys anything that has to do with science!

Her policy interests include: gender equality and climate change. 

Sophie is a sophomore at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, majoring in Biology with a minor in Gerontology. She is on the pre-med track with aspirations of entering the field of rural healthcare. Passionate about serving underserved communities, Sophie is excited to begin her role and eager to learn and contribute through this opportunity.

Currently pursuing a Masters degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. Looking forward to using the educational and personal skills developed in order to help make change. Currently helping serve the Kansas Civic Network from the Kansas City metro area.

Passionate and creative student at the University of Missouri

Esmeralda Truitt graduated from the University of Arizona Global Campus with a Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Management. She is passionate about helping others reach their goals and strives to make a positive difference in the lives of everyone she encounters. Her goal is to leave a meaningful and uplifting impression on those around her. A full-time employee, spouse, and mother, she values quality time with her family and enjoys crafting and reading books during her free time.

Krina Patel is a junior at the University of Missouri–Kansas City, majoring in Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resources. Through her role with the Kansas Civic Network, she is passionate about empowering communities, supporting civic engagement, and helping expand opportunities for all Kansans. She is excited to use her skills and education to contribute to initiatives that strengthen civic participation and foster inclusive leadership across the state.

Afifa is a first-year student at Texas Christian University, where she is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Computer Science. She previously earned her associate degree in Liberal Arts from Hill College. Passionate about service and community development, Afifa is excited to help make a meaningful impact in rural communities across the region.

Ajitesh Venkatesh is a motivated and passionate learner from Troy, Michigan. He is currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management at Michigan State University and has developed a strong foundation in business analytics. As a Benefits Analyst with the Kansas Civic Network, Ajitesh joined to broaden his understanding of a different facet of his career, contribute to community awareness, and help educate others about KCN. In his role, he supports efforts to identify and manage potential partners and donors, helping to advance the mission of the Kansas Civic Network. 

Kathleen Alonso was born in Silver City, New Mexico and raised in Liberal Kansas. Alonso is a first generation Mexican-American. She is currently a student at Seward County Community College and is working on her bachelor's degree and hopes to attend law school in the future. Her passions include community organizing, advocacy, and voter engagement. Alonso occupies her time with non-profit work and several groups and organizations in her community. During her free time, she loves to spend time with her family and friends.

Chelsey Crawford-Cline graduated from Bethany College with a bachelor's degree in Secondary Social Studies Education. She teaches 8th grade United States History at Lakewood Middle School in Salina, Kansas. Along with teaching, Chelsey is the Scholar's Bowl coach, assistant 7th grade girls' basketball coach, and the Civics Club sponsor. Pursuing her love of History, Chelsey is also an active member of the Kansas Anthropological Association and the Kansas Historical Society. In her spare time, Chelsey does free-lance writing for local and state publications, travels as much as possible, works in her gardens, and enjoys spending time with family.

Hunter Feyerherm is a graduate of the University of Kansas, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science with minors in Public Policy and Economics. A strong believer in the power of civic networks, he aspires to help make Kansas a model state for citizens seeking deeper civic engagement.

Volunteering has been a cornerstone of Hunter’s life. Growing up, he was inspired by his mother, who operated her own nonprofit, The Love, Chloe Foundation. Witnessing the foundation’s impact on families both locally and globally instilled in him a deep appreciation for the value of service.

Hunter is committed to strengthening community ties and believes that it is more important than ever to foster civic participation across all generations. He is particularly passionate about encouraging young people to get involved, recognizing the long-lasting influence they can have. His goal is to help break down age-related barriers and promote an inclusive, supportive environment where individuals from all backgrounds are inspired to serve their communities.

Amri' Littlejohn is a proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in Tulsa and is currently an honors student at Bethany College, double majoring in Political Science and Religion. With a strong foundation in activism, Amri’ has used poetry as a powerful tool to educate others on social justice issues and inspire community action.

Throughout high school, Amri’ was deeply involved in advocacy work, including the honor of performing during Stacey Abrams' book tour. Amri’ has also studied under the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and gained valuable experience by shadowing Oklahoma State Representative Regina Goodwin at the State Capitol. Passionate about equity, civic engagement, and community empowerment, Amri’ continues to use both voice and leadership to drive meaningful change.

In her free time, Amri’ enjoys practicing mindfulness, writing poetry, trying out new foods, and learning DIY projects—because who doesn’t love a good DIY?

Jessica Loera is honored and excited to begin her journey with the Kansas Civic Network. She is an alumna of Garden City High School (2015) and Fort Hays State University (2020) and is currently continuing her studies at Wichita State University. Jessica has always been passionate about working within her community and inspiring youth.

During her undergraduate studies, she coached the local middle school girls' soccer team and was actively involved in the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) at FHSU. As a Student Networking Team (SNT) Leader, she helped organize opportunities for students and the community, including activity planning, goal-setting sessions combined with pottery classes, and hosting a blood drive during a FHSU basketball game.

Jessica’s passion lies in supporting others, particularly those who may be underrepresented in their communities. This dedication is a driving force behind her role as the new Chief Belonging Officer for KCN. She is excited to collaborate with others to create meaningful and lasting change.

Kylee Gullion is a 2016 graduate of Manhattan High School. She is also a recent graduate of the University of Kansas earning a degree in environmental studies and a minor in anthropology. During her time at KU, she was involved in various clubs and activities ranging from color guard to environmental clubs.

Full-time everything: student, mom, and worker. I found my passion for helping others through higher education, and I am currently in my last semester of my senior year at Emporia State University. I am looking forward to grad school right after my undergrad.

Hello! My name is Jazmin Jasso and I am a first-generation college student. I am a first-year at the University of Kansas majoring in Social Work and minoring in Psychology. I am really excited to be part of the Kansas Civic Network and get a head start in a career that I am passionate about.

Alvaro Escobedo, a 2017 graduate of Salina South High School and 2019 graduate of Fort Hays State University, attended the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs through a student exchange program while serving as a legislative aide for U.S. Senator Michael F. Bennet and working with Lutheran Refugee Services. A dedicated advocate for immigrant rights and a DACA recipient, he completed World Relief Immigration Law Training to assist refugees and immigrants with legal processes. He volunteers for Catholic Charities, Sigma Chi’s Huntsman Cancer Institute, and political campaigns while also serving in local government roles. In his free time, Alvaro enjoys music (especially Frank Ocean), traveling, kayaking, playing sports, exploring Colorado mountains, and watching TikToks and David Dobrik’s videos.