Staff
Sergio, Laura, and Cheo - Go Team!
Director, Upward Bound Programs
Sergio Galvez
Sergio attended Adolfo Camarillo High School, graduated in 1999, and is a product of the Upward Bound program at Cal Lutheran. After graduating he attended California Lutheran University earning a bachelor degree in History in 2003, a teaching credential in 2004, and completed his Masters Degree in Public Policy and Administration in 2008. Sergio has worked in the capacities of Assistant Director of the Upward Bound program, Director of the Math and Science Upward Bound program, and currently as the Director of both programs at the Cal Lutheran campus. Sergio's motivation, 'go- getter' personality, and dedication to higher education allows him to connect with the students and let them know that nothing is impossible. His ability to embrace challenges and changes is no doubt the reason why both programs are successful and the reason he lives by; “Start the tradition of breaking traditions, and take risks”, because sometimes you have to initiate the change.
Project Coordinator
Laura R. Ochoa
Laura is an alumni of Rio Mesa High School and Upward Bound program, graduated in 1999, then attended Ventura College, Chico State, and finally earning her degree in Psychology from San Diego State University. While at San Diego State Univiersity she was a participant of the Ronald E. McNair Scholars program, another TRIO program that helps underpresented students pursue their doctorate degrees. During her college career she worked as a tutor, residential advisor, and instructor for Upward Bound. Upward Bound has changed Laura's life and she hopes that students will be effected the same way, she hopes the Upward Bound challenges students way of thinking and also hopes they are exposed to diverse cultures and people, so that when they enter the real world they are better prepared to deal with diversity. Laura is big on 'giving back' and spends countless days or months training for charity runs/rides, given her demanding schedule she believes; " go big or go home", because she gives 110% to whatever she puts her mind to..
Academic Specialist
Eliseo Mendez
Eliseo Mendez was raised and continues to live in Somis, he attended Adolfo Camarillo High School and graduated in 2002. After high school he attended Oxnard College and later transferred to California Lutheran University as a participate of Student Support Services, he has completed his degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology. Eliseo is an alumnus of the Upward Bound Program at California Lutheran University and has worked as a tutor and Residential Advisor for the past five years.He believes that the Upward Bound Program is a life changing program that will open eyes towards a better future as it did for him. His goal is to motivate each student in furthering their post secondary education and strive for success. He is a great role model for what Upward Bound students to look up to and he treats every student as if they were a blood relative, Upward Bound is proud of all his accomplishments. His motto for life is "Only through focus can you do world-class things, no matter how capable you are."
