About Us
Connecting scholars with educational opportunities for success.
The Laker Educational Opportunity Center (LEOC) provides information regarding financial and academic assistance available to individuals who desire to pursue a program of post-secondary education; provide assistance to individuals in applying for admission to institutions that offer programs of post-secondary education, including assistance in preparing necessary applications for use by admissions and financial aid officers; and provide information regarding financial and economic literacy to participants.
The goal of the LEOC is to increase the number of adult participants who enroll in postsecondary education institutions, and we strive to increase college and financial aid access to qualified adults who want to enter or continue a program of post-secondary education.
As advocates for access to higher education, we do not promote any one institution. We have over 1,000 participants that enter colleges nationwide if and when they are ready.

The Team

Tarra Carson, MA, M.Ed.
she/her/hers
Assistant Director:
Tarra Carson is the Assistant Director of the Laker Educational Opportunity Center (LEOC) at Grand Valley State University. Tarra was recently the Area Club Director for the Boys & Girls Club Muskegon Lakeshore, where she has served for the past 2 1/2 years. Tarra is also the President/Founder of the HBCU Club of Muskegon, LLC which has promoted college preparation programs and career services to West Michigan area students in grades 7 through college since 2019.
Tarra received her B.S. Degree in Leisure Studies from Grambling State University, where she is a 2nd generation HBCU graduate. Tarra received her MA degree in Special Education from Northeastern Illinois University and an M.Ed. degree in Education Leadership from Western Michigan University.
Tarra serves her community as a member of the Theta Chi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a lifetime member of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity, YEP Advisory Board member at Community Encompass, Michigan Department of Education- Out of School Time (OST) Grant Advisory Board, Michigan Afterschool Partnership Advisory Board, Michigan’s Children Advocacy, member of Michigan Afterschool Association, member of the Michigan College Access Program Personnel (MI-CAPP), member of the Education Opportunity Association (EOA), and board member Step Up Muskegon.
Tarra is the mother of 3 beautiful children. Tarra enjoys listening to jazz and classical music, presenting/facilitating at out-of-school time conferences and workshops, attending live concerts, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Office Address:
Grand Valley State University
462C Richard M. Devos Center
401 Fulton Street W
Grand Rapids, MI 49504-6431
Phone: 616-331-5362 (LEOC)
Email: [email protected]
Empowering learners in their pursuits, professions, and purpose

Jocelyne Luna
she/her/hers
Outreach Specialist:
Jocelyne Luna is a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. She is driven by a strong passion for understanding human behavior and its applications in professional environments. She is currently exploring opportunities to expand her expertise in business strategy and management and plans to pursue an MBA. By integrating psychological principles with business acumen, Jocelyne aims to contribute to innovative, data-driven decision-making and organizational development.
Committed to continuous learning, Jocelyne actively engages with emerging trends in psychology and business, ensuring she remains at the forefront of industry advancements.
Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, she enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring diverse cultural perspectives that enhance her global outlook.
Office Address:
Grand Valley State University
462C Richard M. Devos Center
401 Fulton Street W
Grand Rapids, MI 49504-6431
Phone: 616-331-5362 (LEOC)
Email: [email protected]

Soyla Lange
she/her/hers
Program Specialist:
Soyla Lange is excited to begin her role as Program Specialist for the Laker Educational Opportunity Learning Center (LEOC) at Grand Valley State University. With a strong foundation in student support and a deep passion for helping others succeed, Soyla is dedicated to fostering opportunities for students to excel academically and professionally.
Soyla’s educational journey began at Grand Rapids Community College, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree while working as a peer mentor in the TRIO Department. She then continued her studies at Aquinas College, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration focusing on Sustainable Business. Throughout her time at Aquinas, Soyla also worked in Student Support Services, where she honed her skills in mentorship, student advocacy, and leadership.
In addition to her professional achievements, Soyla is a proud mother of three children and a dog named Milo Bear. Outside of work, she enjoys hot yoga, watching movies, and supporting her children as they participate in various sports such as basketball, football, lacrosse, and cross country. Seeing her children grow into young adults inspires her to lead by example and fuel her passion for mentoring through programs like TRIO. Soyla is excited to contribute her leadership skills to the LEOC program, helping students build the skills they need to succeed academically and professionally.
Office Address:
Grand Valley State University
462C Richard M. Devos Center
401 Fulton Street W
Grand Rapids, MI 49504-6431
Phone: 616-331-5362 (LEOC)
Email:[email protected]
Our Partners
- Adult Learning Partners of West Michigan
- GVSU TRIO Programs
- GVSU Career Center
- GVSU Center for Adult & Continuing Studies
- GVSU Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships
- GVSU Admissions
- Kent ISD
- Sparta Adult Education
- Link Learning
- Magic 104.9
- Alpha GR
- Office Success Program
- Steepletown Neighborhood Services
- GR Housing Commission
- 70x7 Life Recovery
- Baxter Community Center
- Hispanic Center of West Michigan
- Grand Rapids Public Libraries
- Muskegon Community College
- Muskegon Community Education Center
- Muskegon Rescue Mission
- Success Virtual Learning - Muskegon
- Fresh Coast Alliance