KANSAS CIVIC NETWORK
Creating Tomorrow's Community Leaders
LEADERSHIP
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ANDRES MATA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Andres Mata is a 2017 graduate of Salina High School South and a 2021 graduate of Bethany College.
Andres has been active in politics and public service his entire life, beginning at the age of 9. At the age of 11, Andres led a fundraising effort for the country of Haiti, which raised over $1,700 in two weeks. At the age of 13, Andres was appointed by Mayor Norm Jennings to serve on the Salina Human Relations Commission. Andres was appointed to the Salina City Planning Commission, he served from 2015-2017. By serving, Andres played a significant role of being the voice of his generation in the overall social and economic development of Salina.
Andres was awarded the 2019-2020 Student Leader Community Award by Bethany College for his report on food insecurity which led to the creation of the Dala Pantry, a food pantry in Lindsborg.
In his free time, Andres enjoys traveling, keeping up with professional sports, and being with friends and family.
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FATIMA CONTRERAS
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
Fatima Contreras is a 2016 graduate of Salina Central High School and has been studying at Fort Hays State University ever since. In May of 2021, she plans on receiving her Bachelors in Social Work and then pursuing a Masters Degree the following year.
At Fort Hays State University, Fatima has been very involved. Her involvement is as follows; Student Assistant for Student Engagement where she works primarily with transition, inclusion and diversity, The National Society of Leadership and Success, Welcome and Orientation Leader, member of the Hispanic American Leadership Organization, Leader at the Hispanic College Institute and was a winner for the NASPA IV-W Rising Star Award for actively being involved and demonstrating campus leadership.
Currently, she holds the title of Miss Hays Latina. For her platform, she has chosen depression within new immigrant families in a community. Mental health is important and many people do not have the resources. Fatima has advocated for immigrant rights, equality, and mental health her whole life.
Fatima enjoys going to concerts, traveling, playing soccer, being adventurous, hanging with friends and family, listening to music and having a good time.
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AMRI' LITTLEJOHN
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Hello! My name is Amri' Littlejohn a proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School (Tulsa) and I have been continuing my education at Bethany College, an honor student double majoring in Political Science and Religion. I spent my high school career focusing on activism. I used poetry to teach on important topics regarding social justice and the actions we all can take to aid in the betterment of the community. I was blessed to perform for Stacey Abrams book tour, I have had the opportunity to study under the ACLU, and shadow elected state representative Regina Goodwin at the Oklahoma State Capitol.
In my free time, I enjoy practicing mindfulness, writing poetry, trying out new foods, and learning DIYs .. who doesn't love a good DIY?
JESSICA LOERA
CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER
Hello, my name is Jessica Loera and I am so honored and excited to start this new journey with the KCN. I am a 2015 GBHS alum as well as a 2020 FHSU Alum and I am currently studying at WSU. I have always enjoyed working within my community and trying to help shape and inspire the youth within. During my undergrad I had the opportunity to coach for the local middle school girls soccer team and at FHSU I was actively involved in the NSLS (National Society of Leadership and Success). I was the SNT (Student Networking Team )Leader and in this organization we put together opportunities for students as well as our community such as a working on activity planning and talking about our goals and then enjoying pottery class together, as well as hosting a blood drive during a FHSU basketball game for students and the community.
One of my passions is helping others especially those who may be underrepresented in our communities and that is why I am so honored and excited to work as the new Diversity and Inclusion officer for KCN. I am excited to see how all of us together, can make a change.
HUNTER FEYERHERM
CHIEF POLICY OFFICER
Hello, my name is Hunter Feyerherm. I graduated from KU with a Bachelor's in Political Science with two minors in Public Policy and Economics. As a believer in strong civic networks, I hope to make Kansas a role model State for citizens who would like to be more civically engaged.
Volunteering has also played a major role in my life. When I was growing up, my Mother operated her own non-profit: The Love, Chloe Foundation. Seeing the impact her non-profit had families not just locally, but also globally, taught me a lot about the importance of volunteering.
Now is more important than ever that we maintain strong communal ties. I think it's also extremely important that young people seek to get involved as much as they can. The impact that younger citizens can have can be long lasting, which is vital. Overall, I hope to break down any of the age barriers that may exist and also seek to promote a healthy environment for people of all backgrounds to increase their volunteering aspirations.
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REBECCA PEREGRINO
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
My name is Rebecca Peregrino, I am originally from Colorado but am a current student at Bethany College. On campus I am a part of the Volleyball team, currently the treasurer for both the Alpha Theta Chi Sorority and the campus newspaper The Bethany Advocate as well as a Resident Assistant and English tutor on campus. I am a Finance and Economics major as well as an English minor and plan on going to graduate school to receive an MBA.
As a first-generation college student as well as a first-generation Mexican American I strive to be a leader in ways that will help others. I look forward to all jobs I hold in hopes of making a difference for those who need it most, considering I know what it is like to feel behind I don't want others to feel that way.
KYLEE GULLION
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF CIVIC SCIENCE AND RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
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.
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ALVARO ESCOBEDO
DIRECTOR OF LEGAL SERVICES
Alvaro Escobedo is a 2017 graduate of Salina South High School and 2019 graduate of Fort Hays State University. In Fall of 2019, he attended the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs through a student exchange program and served as a legislative aide for Colorado U.S. Senator Michael F. Bennet’s Congressional office while simultaneously working as an office assistant for the Lutheran Refugee Services of Colorado Springs.
Alvaro has attended a World Relief Immigration Law Training which provided legal resources for helping refugees, immigrants, and asylees request protection, file petitions, submit applications, and represent individuals in immigration court. Alvaro has advocated for immigrant rights his whole life and as a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient, he has worked effortlessly to help immigrants like him achieve their dreams.
He volunteers for Catholic Charities summer program Prayer and Action, Sigma Chi’s Huntsman Cancer Institute, and helps on political campaigns advocating for positive change. Additionally, he has served as a Saline County commissioner for the Heritage Commission, as a grant review committee member for the Greater Salina Community Foundation, and as a City of Salina Youth Ambassador.
Alvaro enjoys listening to music (Frank Ocean is his favorite), traveling, kayaking, Colorado mountains, playing sports and being active, watching David Dobrik’s videos, and laughing at tik toks when he’s not saving the world.
GABRIELA HERNANDEZ
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
Gabriela Hernandez is currently a Senior attending Bethany College. She is majoring in Communication and Marketing. She enjoys many things, including a healthy lifestyle, interacting with others, and storytelling. Gabriela is passionate about building genuine and long lasting relationships with those around her and the community.
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KATHLEEN ALONSO
CHIEF DEMOCRACY OFFICER
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.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
BRYANA LOISRANOI
HEALTH EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION PROGRAM ASSOCIATE
Hello, my name is Bryana Loisranoi I was born and raised in Salina, KS and I am a current student at Wichita State University. This upcoming May I will be graduating with my Bachelors in Dental Hygiene with minors in Psychology and Health management. I have been an active member of Ambassadors of Diversity and Inclusion, and as a representative of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, I have brought awareness to diversity, inclusion, and equity issues on campus and in the community. As I move on in my professional career, I hope to bring awareness of the importance of diversity, inclusion, and equity in healthcare. My goals are to hopefully create programs to help underserved communities receive the healthcare that they deserve.
POLICY
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ERICK MENDEZ
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
I'm a currently a Junior at Fort Hays State University, majoring in Construction Management. I am originally born in Mexico and moved to Kansas City at the age of 13. I am someone who wants to make an impact on the community. I am a firm believer of reciprocity of knowledge, I am always eager to learn and grow!
GAGE ROBERTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
Hello everyone! My name is Gage Roberts. I am from Salina, Kansas. I am a 2019 graduate from Salina High School South and currently attend Kansas State University. I willbe graduating with my Master's in Regional & Community Planning with a minor in Leadership Studies in May 2024. At Kansas State. I am heavily involved in the Staley School of Leadership as an ambassador, as well as a Class Leader for the introductory course of the minor. I also serve as a member of Connected' Cats, which is the student group that travels alongside the president meeting with members of all 105 counties finding ways in which Kansas State can better be involved in their communities. Within my major, I have also served as President of the Student Planning Association and have been a mentor for first year design students. One of my passions is community development, I believe taking the time to invest in ALL communities is one of the greatest things we can do. I am so excited to work alongside the Kansas Civic Network to find opportunities to invest and support the wonderful people of Kansas. In my free time I love watching sports, specifically the Chiefs, Royals, and Wildcats. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family, and enjoy finding unique ways to get involved in my community!
CARISSA KOWENO
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
Carissa Koweno, a passionate junior marketing major at the University of Central Oklahoma and a new member of Sigma Phi Lambda Sorority. Hailing from Norman, Oklahoma, Carissa has always been driven to make a positive impact on her community and beyond. With her passion for marketing and community involvement, she is excited to embark on this new opportunity to apply her skills and knowledge. As someone who is deeply committed to social justice and activism, Carissa is eager to use this internship as a platform to contribute to meaningful change and make a difference in the world.
EDUCATION
CHELSEY CRAWFORD-CLINE
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. Perusing 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.
FOOD INSECURITY
KIMBERLY GULLION
COMMUNITY SUPPORT SPECIALIST
I am originally from California but have been living in Kansas for 10+ years. I received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work in May 2021. I am currently at Washburn University working towards my Master's degree in Social Work. I live in Manhattan and work as a child protection specialist! I am passionate about advocating for people and social justice. I enjoy learning about the many resources and services that the communities around Kansas offer. I am excited to collaborate with others who are knowledgeable of these resources and providing assistance to all populations!
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
BRENA MITCHELL
DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Hi! My name is Brena Mitchell, and I am a senior at Bethany College. I am double majoring in Finance and Business Administration and participated on the Women's soccer team from Fall 2018-Fall 2021. I am a member of the Black Association of Student Scholars (BASS) club and strive to be an active member of my community. It is an honor to be given this opportunity to work with KCN and I am excited to gain experience and have a positive impact on different communities.
LEGAL SERVICES
KYLIE JACOBS
IMMIGRATION PROGRAM ASSOCIATE
Kylie is originally from Northern California and transferred to finish her degree at Bethany College. She recently graduated with a dual major in Psychology and History and Political Science. She has always strived to volunteer and be an advocate for those without a voice but has recently learned how to do so hands on through her internships in her Kansas community. She is currently applying to law schools in hopes of starting in the Fall of 2023. In her free time, Kylie loves to hang out with friends and family, workout, and cook.
COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
NANCY VASQUEZ
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Nancy Vasquez is a 2021 Fort Hays State Graduate where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. She is part of the first-generation Hispanics in education and professional work. Following graduation, Nancy pursued a job in marketing with an Ad Agency in the telecommunications industry. She spent her time in college involved in extracurricular activities by becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Psi (Business Fraternity) and with student union affairs. As a student, she participated in foreign exchange student events and was always a helping hand for those with questions. As Social Media Manager, Nancy hopes to bring her education and passion into play to make informative and creative content.
Nancy enjoys traveling, reading, being at the lake, and hanging out with friends and family. She also has a niche for cooking!
DALTON DRESSLER
PUBLIC RELATIONS SPECIALIST
I'm Dalton Dressler I graduated from Olathe East High School and am currently a senior at Kansas State University. I am a Strategic Communication major I recently discovered my passion for activism and helping others and wanting to give back to the communities that have shaped me into the person I am today. In my free time, I love going to Kansas City Chiefs games and I am a very avid fisherman and I love cooking.
RYANNE MEYER
SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST
I am a soon to be graduate from Emporia State University, with a degree in communication and a minor in business. I grew up in Colby, Kansas. I have a big family with a lot of young siblings. I have been studying to learn French for a few years, and just recently came back from a semester abroad. I loved living in France and I am very proud of my progress learning a second language. I have a passion for serving and helping others, and have organized a few of my own community service projects over the years. I am excited for the opportunity to gain more experience in the field of social media and work with the team. During my free time I like to be creative, so I enjoy baking, crafting, reading and writing.
"Nothing can stop the power of a committed and determined people to make a difference in our society. Why? Because human beings are the most dynamic link to the divine on this planet"