Our Staff
Program Director
Gabe Peña
Having collaborated with TRIO for almost 10 years, I am extremely excited to begin my time as the Director for the TRIO SSS Classic program. As a first-generation college student at the University of Michigan, I was equally excited and nervous about the experiences that awaited me. This is why I am so grateful to serve the students in the SSS Classic program and help them to not only overcome barriers, but to expand and exceed their academic and personal limits.
I received my BA in Sociology from the University of Michigan and my M.Ed from Grand Valley State University. Before moving into this position, I spent 5 years as a Success Coach in the Student Academic Success Center and 2 years as a professional advisor here at GVSU. I am a voracious football fan and you can usually catch me at a local high school football game on Fridays, cheering on GVSU on Saturdays, and watching the Miami Dolphins on Sundays in the fall.
Click here to schedule an appointment with me:
https://gvsu.campus.eab.com/pal/V6EEfhLY4n
Student Engagement Specialist
Alexis Baskin
Alexis is a new addition to the TRIO SSS Classic team. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she has 4 sisters and attended Grand Rapids Prep Academy. She graduated from Grand Valley with a Bachelor's in Social work and a Minor in Sociology and is a TRIO Classic Alumni. She is super happy to be working back at her Alumna and excited to be a part of the change
She is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. She is a high school track/basketball coach and worked for GRPS for 5 years. She is a peer mentor in her community. She is super excited to come be a part of the TRIO Classic team but most importantly coming back to her community to make a change. She is a passionate person and loves what she does which is help people find their place in life.
Click here to schedule an appointment with me:
https://gvsu.campus.eab.com/pal/mxmeAM3kWp
Program Advisor
Antone Williamson
Coming from a background as a first-generation college student from Saginaw, MI, I understand the challenges faced by those navigating higher education without prior familial experience or financial advantages. My journey, much like many of the students I now support, began with uncertainty and limited resources. TRIO wasn't a part of my knowledge back then; however, I find myself thrilled to now contribute to the TRIO team as a program advisor.
With a BA in Psychology from Cedarville University under my belt, I've ventured through various student-facing roles, gaining insights and honing skills to better assist individuals on their academic journeys. Central Michigan and Saginaw Valley State University have been crucial chapters in my professional development before finding my way to Grand Valley.
Transitioning to the Grand Rapids area has been a great experience, offering new perspectives and opportunities. As I settle into this vibrant community, I'm eager to use my experiences and empathy into bridging the gap for students facing similar obstacles I once did. My goal is clear: to serve as a guide and advocate, helping students maneuver through the intricacies of college life, ensuring they not only survive but thrive!
Graduate Assistant
Tyler Dorsey
I’m a really excited to work with everyone this upcoming semester. I’m really looking forward to instilling change and support into students that come and interact with our office.
I love to see improvement in others and I’m always pushing for it. Mostly though I’m excited to make more connections with faculty and students overall.
Click here to schedule an appointment with me:
https://gvsu.campus.eab.com/pal/EOpoIGfBG5
Graduate Assistant
Dasani Gorrelle
My name is Dasani Gorrelle, I am first generation college graduate that was born and raised in Charleston, SC . Recently, I graduated Savannah State University where I obtained my Bachelors of Mechanical Engineering Degree. I currently a first year graduate student at GVSU pursuing my Masters of Mechanical Engineering.
I am most excited to meet new faces at GVSU and experience all that this school has to offer with me being new here. But I am most excited to be a part of the Trio Classic SSS team to connect with the everyone and be a resource throughout their college journey!
Click here to schedule an appointment with me:
https://gvsu.campus.eab.com/pal/IJPKW-Hp2N