Our Team
The Kansas Civic Network, powered by six departments and guided by its Board and Staff, drives civic engagement and strengthens Kansas communities through public service, rural tenacity, and community.
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Board of Directors
Logan Stenseng
Logan Stenseng
Logan graduated from the University of Kansas in 2021. During his time at KU, he served as the Government Relations Director to the Student Senate as well as working for several voting rights non-profits. He is originally from El Dorado, Kansas.
Outside of work, Logan loves spending time with friends and family, volunteering, hiking, wood-burning (pyrography), tennis, and exploring new hobbies.
Sara Mermis
Sara Mermis
Sara is a 2017 graduate of Salina Central High School and a 2021 graduate of the University of Kansas, where she earned a degree in Political Science with minors in Business and German.
Originally planning for medical school, Sara redirected her path toward politics following the 2016 election—a turning point that deepened her passion for public policy and governance. She has since gained hands-on experience in political research, served as an intern with the Kansas House of Representatives, and aspires to pursue a career in corporate law.
Grace Hoge
Grace Hoge
Grace Hoge currently serves as Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s press secretary and has extensive experience in both state and federal government and campaigns. As press secretary, she shapes messaging, works with local, state, and national media outlets, and travels the state with Governor Kelly to communicate to Kansans the work the governor does each day to improve their lives.
Before joining the Kelly administration full-time, Grace interned in President Biden’s White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and on Governor Kelly’s 2022 reelection campaign.
Originally from Salina, Grace is active in her community by serving as a precinct committee person and on the Board of Directors for the Kansas Civic Network. She earned a degree in political science and is a proud University of Kansas alum.
Nancy Vasquez
Nancy Vasquez
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.
Gage Roberts
Gage Roberts
Gage Roberts is from Salina, Kansas. He is a 2019 graduate of Salina High School South and a 2024 graduate of Kansas State University with a Master’s Degree in Regional & Community Planning and a Minor in Leadership Studies.
After graduating in the Spring of 2024, Gage has moved back to Salina and is working as a Planner II for the City of Salina. One of his passions is community development, he believes taking the time to invest in ALL communities is one of the greatest things we can do.
He is excited to be a part of the Kansas Civic Network Board and help forward the mission of KCN! In his free time he loves watching sports, specifically the Chiefs, Royals, and Wildcats. He enjoys spending time with friends and family and enjoys finding unique ways to get involved in his community.
Allison Applequist
Allison Applequist
Allison hails from Hays, Kansas and is a 2025 graduate of Bethany College, where she triple-majored in Business Administration, Marketing, and Finance, with a minor in Computer Applications. She was also a standout athlete, playing both golf and soccer during her college years.
Now beginning her first year at the University of Kansas School of Law, Allison brings her passion for civic engagement and legal advocacy to KCN. We’re excited to see the incredible impact she’ll make!
Our Team
Andres Mata
Andres Mata
Chief Executive Officer and Founder
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, he has been actively involved in politics and community engagement since the age of nine.
At eleven, Andres led a successful fundraising campaign for Haiti, raising over $3,400 in just two weeks. By age thirteen, he was appointed to the Salina Human Relations Commission by Mayor Norm Jennings, and later appointed by Mayor Jon Blanchard to serve on the Salina City Planning Commission from 2015 to 2017, amplifying his voice in local government and community development.
While at Bethany College, Andres was recognized for his leadership and community impact. He received the 2019-2020 Student Leader Community Award for his research on food insecurity, which inspired community conversations and contributed 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., further developing his expertise in policy and advocacy.
Outside of civic work, Andres enjoys traveling, following professional sports, and spending time with loved ones.
Fatima Contreras
Fatima Contreras
Chief Operating Officer
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.
Amri Littlejohn
Amri Littlejohn
Chief Program Officer
Amri' is a proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in Tulsa and a 2023 honors graduate of Bethany College, where she earned dual degrees in Political Science and Religion. Grounded in a strong foundation of activism, Amri’ uses poetry as a powerful medium to educate, advocate, and inspire collective action toward social justice.
During high school, Amri’ was deeply engaged in advocacy work, including the honor of performing during Stacey Abrams’ book tour. She also completed studies with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and gained hands-on policy experience while shadowing Oklahoma State Representative Regina Goodwin at the State Capitol. Passionate about equity, civic engagement, and community empowerment, Amri’ continues to use both her voice and leadership to advance meaningful change.
In her free time, Amri’ enjoys practicing mindfulness, writing poetry, exploring new cuisines, and taking on creative DIY projects.
Community Health and Wellness
Kelin Rodriguez
Kelin Rodriguez
Director of Rural Health
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
Nailea Mata
Rural Pharmacy Access and Advocacy Coordinator
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 Wang
Sophie Wang
Primary Care Access Coordinator
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.
Finance
Rebecca Peregrino
Rebecca Peregrino
Chief Financial Officer
A proud graduate of Bethany College, Rebecca recently earned her Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. She is eager to apply her educational and personal experiences to drive meaningful change. Currently, she supports the work of the Kansas Civic Network from the Kansas City metro area.
People and Culture
Mitch Hogan
Mitch Hogan
Chief People Officer
Mitch is a first-year law student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and serves as the Chief People Officer for the Kansas Civic Network. Passionate, creative, and driven, Mitch built a strong academic foundation at the University of Missouri, graduating in 2025. He is committed to applying his leadership skills, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving to both the legal field and organizational leadership, fostering growth, collaboration, and a people-first culture.
Esmeralda Truitt
Esmeralda Truitt
Director of Human Resources
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
Krina Patel
Talent and Total Rewards Specialist
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 Satter
Afifa Satter
Director of Total Rewards
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
Ajitesh Venkatesh
Benefits Analyst
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.
Civic Life
Hunter Feyerherm
Hunter Feyerherm
Chief Democracy Officer
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.
Chelsey Crawford
Chelsey Crawford
Associate Director of Service Learning
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.
Community Engagement
Jessica Loera
Jessica Loera
Chief Community Officer
Jessica proudly serves as the Chief Community Officer for the Kansas Civic Network, bringing her experience and dedication to strengthening communities across Kansas.
She is an alumna of Great Bend High School (2015) and Fort Hays State University (2020) 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 Chief Community Officer for KCN. She is excited to collaborate with others to create meaningful and lasting change.
Evelyn Calderon
Evelyn Calderon
Community Support Specialist
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.
Jazmin Jasso
Jazmin Jasso
Social Work Collaboration Coordinator
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.
Legal Advocacy
Alvaro Escobedo
Alvaro Escobedo
Chief Legal Advocacy Officer
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.
Sophia Herrera
Sophia Herrera
Pathways to Law Program Manager
Sophia Herrera is a junior at the University of Kansas, majoring in Political Science, Spanish, and Chicano/Latino Studies. A native of Kansas City, Missouri, she aspires to pursue a career in immigration, injury, or tribal law, driven by her passion for policy and justice.
A University Scholar in the KU Honors Program, Sophia is deeply engaged in campus leadership, serving as President of KU Young Democrats, Vice President of Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, and a member of the Student Advisory Board at the Dole Institute of Politics, where she also volunteers. She is active in KU’s Latin American Student Union and the Minorities in Pre-Law organization.
Sophia’s academic work includes research on the intersections of U.S. policy, race, nativism, and Latin American conflicts, examining their effects on contemporary immigration issues. In another project, she developed a legislative blueprint addressing inequities faced by urban Native American students in accessing post-secondary education.
Rooted in both Lawrence and Kansas City, Sophia is committed to community service. She tutors middle school students during the school year and volunteers with organizations such as the Guadalupe Centers, where she teaches English, and the Mattie Rhodes Center in Kansas City. This upcoming spring, she will study abroad in Seville, Spain.
"A noble leader answers not to the trumpet calls of self promotion, but to the hushed whispers of necessity"
"A noble leader answers not to the trumpet calls of self promotion, but to the hushed whispers of necessity"
Mollie Marti
Mollie Marti
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