Accessible Education Center Directory
Staff Directory
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Stephen Gaitan
AEC Director
Phone: (408) 848-4871 (Office), (831) 245-3387 (Google Voice)
Email: sgaitan@gavilan.edu
Hello, my name is Stephen Gaitan. I am the Director of the Accessible Education Center at Gavilan College and have had the pleasure of working in the disability community for over 17 years. I have worked at the K-12 setting as a job coach, with DOR as a Vocational Counselor and most recently at Gavilan College as an AEC counselor. I am passionate about the students in our program and constantly look to finds new and innovative ways to implement support services. I am thankful for the team I am able to work with every day, since it is them that makes our program so special.
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Luciana Fuentes
Division Assistant
Phone: (408) 848-4865
Email: lfuentes@gavilan.edu
Hello, my name is Luciana (Lucy) Fuentes. I am the Division Assistant in the Accessible Education Center in which I provide support to our Associate Dean. Part of my duties is to maintain and monitor the AEC budget, conduct scheduling, assist with office support, and also serve as a liaison for our department. As a previous Gavilan College Alumna, I had the privilege to work as a Student Worker at Student Health Services, and I was one of the initial Peer Mentors for the Welcome Center in which has helped me become familiarized with all Student Support Services and Academic Departments at Gavilan College. I am very honored and blessed to be part of the Accessible Education Center to help provide services to accommodate all our student’s needs.
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Rosalinda Barbosa
Program Services Specialist
Phone: (408) 848-4767
Email: rbarbosa@gavilan.edu
As the Program Services Specialist to the Accessible Education Center, I provide the first direct contact for students who come to our office. I assist students with information on how to obtain services from AEC, as well as give assistance with scheduling appointments with our AEC Counselors, Learning Disability Specialist and Workability III Supervisor. Please stop by our office for more information on how to qualify for our services.
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Dewitt Stuckey
Accessible Education Center Counselor
Phone: (408) 840-3123 (Google Voice)
Email: dstuckey@gavilan.edu
My name is Dewitt Stuckey. I'm a Counselor in the Accessible Education Center and Veteran's Resource Center here at Gavilan Community College. I provide students with accommodations, academic support, career and personal counseling services. In addition, I develop educational plans and monitor the academic progress of students to ensure they are successful in their future endeavors. As a former Division 1 Collegiate athlete, who grew up being the underdog to many obstacles, I find great pleasure in motivating and educating my students to continue fighting for their dreams. I am honored and pleased to be a part of the Gavilan Community College family.
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Tamara Goldie
Accessible Education Center Counselor, Part-Time
Phone: (408) 848-4861
Email: tgoldie@gavilan.edu
Hello, my name is Tamara Goldie, and I am a Counselor in the Accessible Education Center here at Gavilan College. My previous job included working at De Anza College as a counselor in their EOPS and General counseling program and t San Jose State University. Prior to working with college students, I worked in the K-12 educational setting as a School Psychologist assessing students for disabilities, writing psychoeducational reports and attending IEP meetings. I am here to advocate for students, to connect students with resources, and to provide guidance and support for achieving whatever academic goal is desired. I have seen first-hand how students can overcome disabilities and learning challenges to obtain a certificate and or degree and go on to find a rewarding job or career that they ultimately thrive in. I hope you allow me to help you find your passion in whatever path you choose.
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Andrea Masey
Mobility Aide / Tram Driver
Phone: (408) 848-4891
Email: amasey@gavilan.edu
Hello, my name is Andrea Masey, and I am the Mobility Aide for the Accessible Education Center. I work directly with student by helping transport them to and from their classes. I am a Gavilan alumni and have my B.A. in Japanese Language and Culture from CSU Monterey Bay. Prior to working at here at Gavilan, I taught English at elementary and middle schools in Japan for three years.
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Irma Lopez
Test Proctor
Phone: (408) 713-1805 (Google Voice)
Email: ilopez@gavilan.edu
Hi, I am Irma Lopez, the AEC Assessment Specialist. I coordinate the test proctoring services and work in the main AEC office. I maintain the list of students receiving the testing accommodations, and I help with the organization of student files, continuously reconciling forms and updating the student information on our online database.
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Cheryl Brown
Career Prep Instructor/HOPE Hollister
Phone: (408) 465-9580
Email: cbrown@gavilan.edu
My name is Cheryl Brown and I am an instructor for the CareerPrep program on campus. CareerPrep is a 2-3 year program created for students with intellectual disabilities. The curriculum consists of career vocational courses, including: Job Readiness, Self-Advocacy and Community Integration. I also provide instruction at HOPE Services in Gilroy and Hollister, and at HOPE's Supported Employment service sites. Students at HOPE learn vocational skills necessary to stay employed at the work activity center and/or find employment in the community.
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Kim Wilson
Vocational Instructional Specialist - HOPE Gilroy
Phone: (408) 846-6946
Email: kwilson@gavilan.edu
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Fernando Ibarra
Vocational Instructional Specialist - HOPE Hollister
Phone: (831) 638-6852
Email: libarraguzman@gavilan.edu
Hi! My name is Fernando Ibarra. I have a BA/BS in Psychology from Cal Poly Tech State University. I was recently appointed as Vocational Instructional Specialist for the Accessible Education Center at the HOPE Hollister site. Before joining Gavilan College, I worked as a Community Support Facilitor at HOPE Services in Gilroy.
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Frank Mendez
Vocational Instructor, Full-Time, High Tech Center Instructor, Part-Time
Phone: (831) 245-3759 (Google Voice)
Email: fmendez@gavilan.edu
Hello! My name is Frank Mendez. I am an instructor for the Accessible Education Center. Pre-Pandemic, I could be found in the High Tech Center in the Library Building. The software packages I teach are: Plato, Kurzweil 3000 , Read & Write, Smartpen tech and Dragon Naturally Speaking software. The classes I teach are: CSIS 570 A & B, CSIS 571 A, Job Readiness and Workplace Skills class.
Because this is an online semester, I do not have traditional office hours. Instead, you can send me your questions at any time, and I will respond within 24 hours. If you have questions or need assistance, you can: email me via iLearn or at fmendez@gavilan.edu or contact me through my Google Number: (831)245-3759. I hope your time at Gavilan College is fruitful and brings you much happiness in all your academic endeavors.
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Marina Lares
Adaptive Services Specialist (High Tech Center)
Phone: (408) 848-4788
Email: mlares@gavilan.edu
My name is Marina Lares. I am the Adaptive Services Specialist at the AEC. I provide students with any assistance that will better enable them to succeed here at Gavilan College. After the initial intake, the student may fill out the Student Request form that indicates which services will be needed. I arrange services such as Note Taking, Adaptive Equipment, Adaptive Hardware and Software, and I assist students in the High Tech Center. In addition, I assist in the production of Alternate Media for students with a wide variety of disabilities. I also assist in the research and ordering of new software and hardware for the High Tech Center. I am a former AEC student who graduated from Gavilan College so I am familiar with the challenges our students face. I recently completed my Bachelors in Business Management from San Jose State University.
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Robert Overson
Learning Disability Specialist
Phone: (831) 531-7292 (Google Voice)
Email: roverson@gavilan.edu
Hello and welcome to Gavilan Community College and to the Accessible Education Center (AEC). As a former K-12 Special Education Teacher, I have the experience to understand the learning process and the challenges it possesses. As a Learning Disabilities Specialist, I believe in assisting students through evaluation of their learning potential and recommending services and accommodations that will help them be successful. My primary goal is to assist students in overcoming challenges with learning difficulties and provide them with the tools necessary for their equal access to education.
“In order to know anything you must first know yourself.”
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Lori Burgman
Learning Disability Specialist
Phone: (408) 782-4823 (Google Voice)
Email: lburgman@gavilan.edu
As a part time Learning Disabilities Specialist, I administer achievement and cognitive tests to determine students' eligibility for learning disabilities services, and to explore students' individual academic strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.
Additionally, I teach Math support classes, specifically Guidance 562, a support class for Math 402 and Math 411. I also work in the AEC Learning Skills Lab as part of a wonderful team who are devoted to ensuring students' academic success.
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Gilbert Horta
Instructional Program Specialist
Phone: (408) 848-4829
Email: ghorta@gavilan.edu
Hello, I find satisfaction in working as an Instructional Program Specialist. My desire is to aid students to convey their thoughts and feelings through writing. I also enjoy helping students build pathways to achievement in mathematics. Being a student with learning disabilities myself, I know the obstacles that students face. Since I have firsthand experience with overcoming my own challenges, I will be able to better help and equip students to identify their strengths. I’m not just a staff member; I’m also a student working toward my B.S. degree in Special Education.
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Priscilla de Anda
Instructional Program Specialist
Phone: (831) 313-2256 (Google Voice)
pdeanda@gavilan.edu
Hi,
My name is Priscilla de Anda, and I am an Instructional Program Specialist in the AEC Learning Skills Lab and the High Tech Center.
I am an alumni of Gavilan College, and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to return and assist current students to achieve their educational goals.
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Eric Lopez
Adapted Physical Education Instructor/Kinesiology Instructor
Phone: (408) 848-4878
elopez@gavilan.edu
Hello, my name is Eric Lopez, and I am the Adapted Physical Education (APE) instructor as well as the Department Chair for the Accessible Education Center. I have worked here at Gavilan College since 2016 working in the Kinesiology department. In 2018, I made the switch over to the Adapted PE program and have enjoyed every minute of it. I feel that working with older adults with disabilities is my calling and I feel at home in the APE program. I am continuously looking how I can help my students lead a better life through health and wellness.
"To accomplish our goals, we must distill our dreams into daily actions". Michael Hyatt
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Irving Ploke
Adapted Physical Education Instructor/Kinesiology Instructor
Phone: (408) 848-4878
iploke@gavilan.edu
Hi, my name is Irv Ploke. Iʼm an instructor in both the Adapted Physical Education and Kinesiology departments. I teach classes off-campus for the Live Oak Adult Day Services as well classes in the Adaptive Fitness Center at Gavilan College. In the Kinesiology department, I teach self-defense, karate, strength training, stress management, and core classes for the Personal Training Certification Program. I have a passion for advising, mentoring, and guiding students towards a path of success and living a healthy and fit lifestyle.
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Johnny Ploke
Adapted Physical Education Instructor/Kinesiology Instructor
Phone: (408) 634-8518
jploke@gavilan.edu
Hello, my name is Johnathan Ploke but you can call me Johnny. My passion lies in helping individuals of all abilities reach their full potential. With a Master's degree in Strength and Conditioning, I bring a unique perspective to Gavilan Community College, honed through international experience. While living in New Zealand, I worked with professional rugby players, but my true calling came from working with older adults and people with disabilities here in Gilroy and abroad. This experience solidified my desire to make a positive impact by promoting lifelong movement and well-being through adapted physical education and kinesiology. In my classes, I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can experience the joy of movement. I believe that fitness isn't just about physical health; it's about empowerment, confidence, and building a strong foundation for a fulfilling life. This dedication extends beyond the classroom. I find immense satisfaction in virtually coaching clients, particularly older adults and people with disabilities, to achieve their fitness goals. When I'm not teaching or training, I explore on my motorcycle or spend precious time with my family.
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Rosangela Navarro
Mobility Aide
Phone: (408) 825-4387 (Google Voice)
Email: rnavarro@gavilan.edu
Hello, my name is Rosangela (Rose) Navarro. I have been part of the Gavilan College Community for three years as a part time Health Clerk. Now I work in the Accessible Education Center as a Mobility Aide. I am able to work directly with students.I transport students in the tram to give them a way to attend classes when I'm not driving the tram I help in the Office.
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Michael Larson
Mobility Aide
Phone: (408) 444-7182
mlarson@gavilan.edu
Hi everyone,
My name is Michael Larson. I'm 22 years old and I'm currently working towards my business degree. On campus I work as a Mobility Aid in the APE area at Gavilan. I'm happy to be part of Gavilan college and want others to see how welcoming our school is. I'm here to help in whatever way!
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Maria Rodriguez
WAIII Job Developer, Gavilan College
Phone: (408) 848-4851
Email: mrodriguez@gavilan.edu
Hello, I am Maria Rodriguez. I am the Job Developer for the Workability III program here at Gavilan College. Our program works in a partnership with the Department of Rehabilitation to provide Gavilan students with employment services. As a Job Developer, I go out in our community to find job opportunities that will meet our students and employer needs. If you would like to know more about our program please feel free to contact me.
Be the change you want to see in the world ~ Mahatma Gandhi
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Laura Sheldon
WAIII Counselor/Coordinator, Gavilan College
Phone: (408) 848-4741
Email: lsheldon@gavilan.edu
Hi! My name is Laura Sheldon, and I am the Workability III Counselor/Coordinator. The Workability III program serves students referred by the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) to support students with disabilities by providing the resources and guidance they need to succeed academically and professionally. I work closely with the DOR to ensure students receive the vocational support and services they need. I take great pride in helping students overcome barriers and access opportunities that will lead to their personal and career growth. It’s truly an honor to be part of their journey and to contribute to their success.
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| All college information or academic materials are available in alternate media upon request at (408) 848-4788. For more AEC information, call 408-848-4865 or to schedule an appointment, call 408-848-4767. |
