Meet our Staff
Annette Gutierrez, MSW
Director of Basic Needs & Success
408-848-4813
agutierrez@gavilan.edu
Hello and welcome to Gavilan College. I have had the privilege of serving students at Gavilan since 2005. Additionally, I am a proud Gavilan College alumni and understand firsthand some of the barriers that may arise as a CalWORKs/Fresh Success student. The Higher Aspirations program and staff are here to ensure that you prosper during and after your time at Gavilan. Please be sure to stop by to say hello, share your worries, and accomplishments, we truly care about each and every one of our students.
Violeta Yerena
Departmental Assistant
408-852-2838
vyerena@gavilan.edu
Hello and welcome to Gavilan College and the Higher Aspirations program. I am excited to be part of the awesome Higher Aspirations team. As a Gavilan alumni, I am thrilled to be back on campus working with all of our students. As a first-generation college student, I am familiar with the various barriers that can make the college experience more difficult. However, I am here to support you through your college journey and hope to help make it easier for you to navigate. Please stop by or call with any questions you may have as I am here to help you.
Yo hablo Español!
Thong Vang
Higher Aspirations Counselor/Coordinator
408-848-4800 x5604
tvang@gavilan.edu
Welcome to Gavilan College! I have the privilege to serve as your Counselor/Coordinator for the Higher Aspirations program. My role is to guide and support you on your educational journey. I truly believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for shaping your future and transforming your life. Through this program, you’ll gain access to valuable resources, strategies, and support systems that can help you succeed. I’m here to assist you in building the skills needed to navigate the college experience with confidence. Whether you're just beginning your journey or continuing on your path, I look forward to meeting each of you.
Robb Rodriguez
Juvenile Justice Program Coordinator
831-205-0076
rorodriguez@gavilan.edu
Robb Rodriguez is the Juvenile Justice Program Coordinator at Gavilan College, where he leads initiatives to support system-impacted youth in Santa Clara and San Benito counties. His work focuses on expanding access to education for young people in detention centers and alternative high schools, helping them transition to campus life, and connecting them with essential resources—including food, transportation, shelter, books, and mental health support. Robb began his career at Gavilan College as a Job Developer in the AEC Department the beginning of 2024.