Chief Program Officer Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0212amolina@onwardwelearn.org Alejandro Molina brings experience in Rhode Island’s out-of-school and extended learning opportunity community to Onward We Learn. His previous roles include serving as the deputy director of the Providence After School Alliance (PASA) and the assistant chief of planning for the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Most recently, Alejandro has served as the managing director of impact for City Year Providence.
A native of Mamaroneck, New York, Alejandro earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Oswego State University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Rhode Island. In his free time, Alejandro loves spending time with his wife, Caitlin, and their two children, Milo and Ela. Alejandro supports several local and national organizations, including Paul Cuffee Charter School, Youth in Action, Nowell Academy School, and Phi Iota Alpha Latino Fraternity Inc.
Director of High School Success Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-1893aalmeida@onwardwelearn.org Ana Almeida is an experienced professional with over 12 years of expertise in college access, specializing in college admissions. She has presented on various college admissions topics at both local and national conferences and has served on advisory boards for admission offices at several colleges and universities. As the Director of High School Success at Onward We Learn, Ana leads the development and implementation of a strategic plan alongside high school advisors to support students in navigating their secondary education and achieving academic success. Prior to her current role, she served as a College Admissions Coach and Associate Director of College Admissions, where she developed the Honorific Program and guided cohorts of Honorific students through selective college admissions preparation. Ana graduated from Hope High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Portuguese and Brazilian Studies and Political Science from Brown University, followed by a Master’s in Higher Education from Providence College.
President and CEO Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0220abramson@onwardwelearn.org Andrew Bramson is responsible for setting overall goals and operational priorities that advance Onward We Learn's mission. He is a member of the Governor’s Workforce Board Career Pathways Advisory Committee, the RIDE Individual Learning Plan Committee, the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce Education and Workforce Committee, and the Central Falls School District Board of Trustees. He also serves as a board member of the Latino Policy Institute at Roger Williams University, is a trustee of Temple Beth-El, and was previously on the Advisory Board for Youth in Action. Prior to joining Onward, Andrew held senior leadership positions at The Providence Plan, serving as development director, deputy director, and director of DataSpark, a cornerstone initiative of the organization that connects data and people to inform, empower, and inspire innovative decision making. He also worked as senior planner for the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission in Duluth, Minnesota. Early in his career, Andrew served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Hungary, where he taught environmental education and advised nonprofit organizations. A graduate of Leadership Rhode Island’s Class of 2015, he holds a Bachelor of Science in natural resources and environment from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and a Master of Arts in management from the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota.
College Success Coach Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-0051amam@onwardwelearn.org Anthony Mam graduated from Cranston High School East in 2007. He earned a Bachelor of Science in actuarial mathematics from Bryant University in 2011 and a Master of Science in college student personnel from the University of Rhode Island in 2013. Prior to joining us as a high school advisor, Anthony worked as a staff member at the Brown Center for Students of Color at Brown University, at the Rhode Island School of Design and Roger Williams University as a residence hall director.
Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 4015190213aburton@onwardwelearn.org AJ Burton, a proud Onward Alum, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and is currently completing a Master of Education with a focus in Youth Development from Rhode Island College. Prior to joining Onward We Learn, he served as a Site Coordinator for the 21st Century Community Learning Center in Woonsocket and previously worked as an Admissions Assistant at MCLA. Outside of work, he volunteers as a mentor and youth leader at his local church, supporting middle and high school students
Program Operations Specialist Onward We Learn Staff Memberbseverin@onwardwelearn.org Becca graduated from the University of Texas in 2019 with a math degree. From there, she went to teach middle school math for 3 years in underserved areas of Austin. After teaching, she moved to the informal education space, working for the non-profit, Girlstart. There, she discovered a passion for providing education and resources for students beyond the classroom. Becca is thrilled to continue utilizing her passion for helping students succeed as the Program Operations Specialist at Onward We Learn.
FAFSA Implementation Project Manager Onward We Learn Staff Memberbgeorge@onwardwelearn.org At Onward, Breisha is the FAFSA Implementation Project Manager. Her focus is maintaining data and planning events for all milestones related to the FAFSA. i Additionally she coordinates with external partners. She uses her skills from years of working in high volume retail leadership and as a graduate student at Rhode Island Colleges Mental Health Counseling master’s program to build rapport and connection within the community and helps to ease the anxiety surrounding the college and FAFSA process. She was a McNair Scholar and graduated from Rhode Island College in 2022 with her bachelor’s in psychology. She has years of mentoring young professionals who are interested in growing professionally and personally.
High School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Membercprice@onwardwelearn.org Courtney Price, a graduate of Feinstein High School, earned her undergraduate degree at College Unbound and a master's in urban education policy from Brown University. Courtney has worked with Providence Students for over two decades.
Newport Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 4014001810cfuerte@onwardwelearn.org Born and raised in Newport, Rhode Island, Crystal is a proud product of the Newport Public Schools. After graduating from Rogers High School, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Rhode Island. Before joining Onward We Learn, Crystal worked as a Special Education Paraeducator in the Newport Public School District, where she developed a strong commitment to supporting and advocating for students of all abilities. In addition to her educational work, she also coaches Unified Basketball at the high school level, an experience that continues to fuel her passion for inclusion, teamwork, and youth development. As someone who has both grown up in and worked within the local school system, she is deeply committed to giving back to my community and helping young people navigate their educational journeys with confidence and purpose.
Senior Director of People and Culture Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0215dramos@onwardwelearn.org Daisel Ramos brings over 14 years of experience leading operations in both the non-profit sector as well as education. Most recently, Daisel served as Human Capital Coordinator at Central Falls School District where she improved Human Resource Systems, advocated for equitable practices and created opportunities to empower the community. She is passionate about redefining the field of Human Resources by focusing on people first. Daisel will be responsible for developing a people and culture strategy that aligns with Onward's mission, vision, values and strategic goals. Daisel was born in Puerto Rico is fluent in Spanish.
High School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-1802dclement@onwardwelearn.org Dwayne Clement graduated from Central High School in 1997. He went on to attend Rhode Island College and graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology.
Director of Recruitment and Admissions Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0217edelarosa@onwardwelearn.org Elaine Santana was a middle school advisor at Onward from 2015-20 and returned to the organization in 2022 as a college success coach. Prior to returning, she provided college and career counseling in the guidance departments at Evolution High School and Mount Pleasant High School for two years. She has a Bachelor of Arts in human development and family studies from the University of Rhode Island and a Master of Education in professional school counseling from Providence College.
Director of Data and Evaluation Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0301etwomey-wilson@onwardwelearn.org Erin Twomey-Wilson oversees data and evaluation at Onward We Learn to inform development, implementation, measurement and communication about the impact of student and parent programs. Prior to joining our staff, she served as an underwriting analyst for Blue Cross Blue Shield and a research analyst for the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Erin holds a Master of Applied Statistics from Penn State University, a Master of Science in physics from University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, a Bachelor of Science in Earth science from Bridgewater State University and an associate degree in liberal arts from Bristol Community College. She has been a member of the American Statistical Association since 2012 and holds Graduate Statistician (Gstat) status. She is also a member of the Physics Industrial Advisory Board at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and the American Statistical Association Committee on Career Development.
College Success Coach Onward We Learn Staff Member 4014001899jdelacruz@onwardwelearn.org Jennifer is a first-generation college graduate who earned her Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Development from Providence College. Throughout her academic and professional career, her background has enabled her to appreciate the barriers many individuals face in achieving education and opportunity, which has inspired her to create inclusive environments for all. She strives to promote equity through mentoring, program development, and strategic collaboration. With her lived experience, leadership skills, and passion for equity, she aims to empower students to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.
Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-1867jnavia@onwardwelearn.org Jennifer Navia holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Environmental Studies and has aspirations to pursue a Master’s degree in the future. Her diverse experiences have equipped her with the skills necessary to be a successful advisor. Jennifer was previously a student in our program, back when it was known as College Crusade of RI. During her time in the public school system, she developed close relationships with her advisors, which gave her a deep understanding of the various programs available to students and the kind of support advisors provide as they prepare for college
Newport Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 4015190216kmccants@onwardwelearn.org Keana is a proud first-generation college graduate. She earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Elementary Education in addition to a minor in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island in 2023. Keana is committed to advancing educational excellence and supporting student development through research-based instructional practices and inclusive learning environments.
High School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 4014007431lversola@onwardwelearn.org Leonard Versola is a graduate of Vassar College, where they majored in Education and Music and minored in Sociology. They call Las Vegas, Nevada, and Manila, Philippines home. Before joining the organization, Leonard worked at Brown University and Oberlin College where they supported students through community programming. They are excited to help students get to and through college as a first-generation, low-income graduate themselves. Leonard is a fan of musicals, baking, and fantasy novels.
Family Engagement Coordinator Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0305 mgarcia@onwardwelearn.org Manny Garcia, a Onward We Learn alumna, attended Calcutt Middle School and graduated from Central Falls High School in 2013. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in human development and family studies, with a minor in Spanish, from the University of Rhode Island in 2017. Prior to joining our staff as a middle school advisor, she worked as an advisor for our CAAP program and for Rhode Island Write on Sports. She also served as a fellow for the Central Falls School District and for the Rhode Island Secretary of State.
Finance Associate Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0211mmartin@onwardwelearn.org Marie Martin has been in accounting/finance for more than 35 years and has worked for nonprofit organizations for the last 10 years. For four years, she was the accounting assistant at Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England and previously was the bookkeeper at Amos House. In her most recent position, Marie was the bookkeeper/office manager at The Haitian Project.
College and Career Success Coach Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-854-5508mtorres@onwardwelearn.org Marlex Torres has a rich background in higher education and a deep commitment to supporting first generation students. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Ana G. Mendez University earned in 2015 and an MBA from Johnson and Wales University earned in 2017. With nearly seven years at CCRI, Marlex has extensive experience in student affairs and admissions, where she has worked tirelessly to close opportunity gaps and advocate for equity for marginalized communities. Inspired by their mother, a dedicated college counselor, she strives to be a source of support and guidance for all students on their career and educational journeys.
Senior Director of Strategy and Partnerships Onward We Learn Staff Memberprahmanian@onwardwelearn.org Pegah Rahmanian joins the Onward We Learn team as the Senior Director of Strategy and Partnerships. With 15 years of nonprofit and higher education experience, Pegah brings executive oversight that inspires curiosity, reflection, intelligence, joy, and connection. Her past experiences include Executive Director of Youth In Action, YMCA Program Director, and most recently the Associate Dean of Students at Rhode Island College. A native of Ohio and the daughter of Iranian immigrants, Pegah is no stranger to the intricacies and nuances of shapeshifting to belong. Belonging is central to her work and informs how she engages with the world. As a first-generation college student and first-generation US citizen, she feels she has found a home at Onward We Learn. Pegah earned her BA from Oberlin College in Gender and Women Studies, Anthropology, and Comparative American Studies as well as an MA from Wright State University in Sociology. She loves being outdoors, cooking, and collecting - you can find her around town with two kids in tow, usually with a smile.
Information Technology Support Specialist Onward We Learn Staff Member Ryan Durgin is responsible for all aspects of computer setup, installation, troubleshooting, service, upgrades and maintenance for the Onward We Learn. Prior to joining our staff, he served as IT support specialist for Neighbors Emergency Center and Optum Healthcare. Ryan holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies from the University of Rhode Island.
Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 4015190303cshrestha@onwardwelearn.org Cecil Shrestha is a first-generation college graduate with a dual BA degree in English and Psychology and an MA degree in English from the University of Louisiana Monroe. Born and raised in Nepal, Cecil moved to the States for his undergraduate studies in 2015. His previous roles include working as a Substitute Teacher for the Central Falls School District and as a Copyeditor for Stillwater River Publications. Prior to joining Onward full-time, he worked as a part-time Math Instructor for the organization. Cecil is passionate about helping students succeed in school, college, and beyond. In his free time, Cecil loves to read, write, and spend time with his cat, Pudge
Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 4014001930sking@onwardwelearn.org Sam King attended Calcutt Middle School and graduated from Central Falls High School in 2013. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Rhode Island College in 2017. Prior to joining our staff as a Middle School Advisor, she worked as an elementary-level Paraeducator for the Bellingham, MA, public school district. She also briefly worked as a Mental Health Specialist in a psychiatric institution in Attleboro, MA. Outside of work, she is passionate about the creative arts, animals, cooking, and reading poetry.
Program Operation Specialist Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0306slessard@onwardwelearn.org Sarah Lessard is serving as interim director of middle school success, coordinating the work of our middle school advisors as well as overseeing the admissions process.
In her role as program specialist for Onward, she coordinates our advisory reporting system, oversees student program attendance and service data, and plays a key role in our daily communications with families and students. Previously she served on our middle school advisory team at schools in Cranston and West Warwick. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and a Bachelor of Science in human development and family studies, with a focus in family and community settings, from the University of Rhode Island. She also earned a T.E.F.L. certification from Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Spain.
Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-1805sgoncalves@onwardwelearn.org Shanice Goncalves earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science with a concentration in justice studies and international nongovernmental studies from Rhode Island College. She previously worked as volunteer coordinator at Dorcas International, where she managed supplementary volunteer workforce from corporate, religious, academic, and community partnerships such as Brown University, Providence College, Bank of America, and Hasbro. Her passion for youth and community development drives the work that she does.
Student Services Escalation Manager Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-1894spineda@onwardwelearn.org Shanty Pineda, an Onward We Learn alumna. She worked for the popular CAAP program as a mentor and program site manager for seven years before joining the staff full-time as an advisor. She graduated from Classical High School and later earned a Bachelor of Science in business management with a concentration in human resources from Rhode Island College. She is passionate about creating meaningful connections with students and serving as a resource in any way she can.
Chief Finance and Administration Officer Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-519-0206smansolillo@onwardwelearn.org Susan Mansolillo has extensive experience leading the finance and administrative operations for nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. For five years, she was chief financial officer for the Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England and, prior to that, senior director of finance and administration for the Audubon Society of Rhode Island for 25 years. Her most recent position was chief financial officer for the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner, an important partner of Onward We Learn. She is also a member of the Johnston School Committee.
Middle School Advisor Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-1794tcosta@onwardwelearn.org Tim Costa graduated from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy. Before joining Onward We Learn, he worked for City Year Providence for two years and was assigned to Roger Williams Middle School in Providence as an Americorps member and then a team leader, which shifted his responsibilities from classroom management to leading a team and serving as the liaison between City Year and the school’s administrators.
CRM Project Manager Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-0049vmontanez@onwardwelearn.org Victor Montanez graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in 2010 and earned a Bachelor of Science in sociology with a concentration in criminal justice and a minor in psychology from the University of Rhode Island in 2015. He is a Onward We Learn alumnus and first joined our organization as a middle school advisor, serving at Esek Hopkins Middle School and Times2 Academy.
Associate Director of College Admissions Onward We Learn Staff Member 401-400-0057vrose@onwardwelearn.org Vicky started her tenure at Onward We Learn in 2022 as the College Success Coach for URI before most recently serving as the College Success Coach for the Accelerate Dual Enrollment Program at CCRI. Prior to Onward, Vicky spent five years working in college admissions at Mount Ida College and Wheaton College in MA. A born-and-raised Rhode Islander, Vicky attended Fitchburg State University as a first-generation college student, earning her Bachelor of Science in Communications Media with a concentration in photography in 2011. She earned her Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University's College of Professional Studies in 2019. In addition to her role at Onward, Vicky also works as a part-time seasonal application reader for Providence College.
