Meet the Staff
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.
If you would like to make an appointment with me, send me an email at [email protected] and we can get something on the books!
Gabe Peña
Program Director
TYLER DORSEY
Hey everyone!
My name is Tyler Dorsey, and I’m excited to join you this semester. I recently graduated from Grand Valley with my Master’s in Business Administration, and I also hold a Bachelor’s in Animal Science—so yes, I’m a huge animal lover and could probably talk your ear off about anything from farm animals to furry pets.
Some of you may recognize me from other TRIO programs I’ve been involved with in the past, and I’m thrilled to see some familiar faces while also meeting new ones. My passion for education and student success drives me to be here for you—not just as a resource, but as a cheerleader for your goals and dreams.
This upcoming semester, I’m looking forward to building connections, supporting you through challenges, celebrating your wins, and making sure you have the tools and confidence to succeed. Let’s make this year one full of learning, growth, and maybe even some fun surprises along the way.
Tyler Dorsey
Program Advisor
ALEXIS SMITH
Alexis is a proud new addition to the TRIO SSS Classic team. Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she is one of five sisters and attended Grand Rapids Prep Academy. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a Minor in Sociology from Grand Valley State University, where she was also a TRIO Classic alumna. Now, she is thrilled to return to her alma mater and give back to the program and community that shaped her journey.
Alexis is a devoted wife to her wonderful husband, Brandon, and a loving mother to their amazing son and daughter, Braylen and Bella. Together, Alexis and Brandon founded A Beautiful Rose Foundation in 2023—a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and building communities that value equity, relationships, and health by removing as many barriers as possible. Through donations and grants, ABRF provides education and basic services to individuals in need, reducing disparities in at-risk communities. The foundation focuses on mentorship programs, scholarships, community events, mental health seminars, and extracurricular activities, fostering lasting relationships with individuals from all walks of life while unifying humanity.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Alexis is a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., a high school track and basketball coach, and a former Grand Rapids Public Schools employee with five years of service. She is also a peer mentor in her community. Her passion lies in helping people find their place and purpose in life, and she is deeply committed to making a positive and lasting impact.
Alexis Smith
Student Engagement Specialist
ROBERT MAREK
Robert Marek is a Graduate Assistant with TRIO Student Support Services at Grand Valley State University, where he provides mentorship and academic support to first-generation and underrepresented students. He is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work with the goal of becoming a licensed mental health therapist. Robert holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Psychology from Lynn University, where he was actively involved in Greek Life and held multiple student leadership roles, including Peer Mentor, HR Assistant, Orientation Facilitator, and Audio-Visual Technician for the Lynn University Sports Network.
His professional experience includes roles at Google (Dublin, Ireland), LinkedIn (Detroit, MI), and the U.S. Department of Justice, as well as career coaching for first-generation students at New Mexico Highlands University. Fluent in German and shaped by 15 years abroad through his family's work with the United Nations, Robert brings a global perspective to his work in student support and mental health advocacy. In the last year Robert Has prioritized health and self-care by losing 150Lbs.
In his free time, Robert enjoys playing guitar, running, and lifting weights.
Robert Marek
Graduate Assistant
MARIA HAMELL
Hi! I’m Maria Hamell, the Learning Programs Coordinator here at TRIO SSS! I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and moved back after completing my bachelor’s degree. I earned a B.S. in Psychology from Central Michigan University, with double minors in Communication and Leadership.
During college, I loved staying involved—whether through Greek Life, volunteer and social clubs, or my on-campus jobs with the Student Disability Center and as a CMU Orientation Leader. Getting involved on campus truly shaped my college experience and I can’t recommend it enough! You never know who you’ll meet, what you’ll learn, or where those experiences might take you.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, kickboxing, being creative, and hanging out with my cat, Joe. After COVID, I wanted to reconnect with my community and stay active, which led my friend Kate and I to start Girls Gotta Walk GR in 2021—a free walking group for women and non-binary folks in the Grand Rapids area. We meet a few times each month to explore local parks, build connections, and give back by partnering with local charities to raise awareness and funds. One of my favorite things about GGW is seeing people come alone and leave with new friends! If you’re interested in joining us, check us out on Instagram or Facebook @girlsgottawalkgr.
I’ve been part of the TRIO family since 2020, starting with TRIO Veterans Upward Bound, where I created webinars for Veterans. Since 2024, I’ve been with TRIO SSS, developing online workshops and learning materials for the broader student community. I love discovering which topics resonate most with students and creating engaging, accessible content that supports their success.