Our Team

Claire joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Manager in August 2022. She is originally from Louisville, Colorado. She has a Master of Social Work from Metropolitan State University and a Bachelor of Arts – Psychology & Sociology from the University of Colorado – Boulder. Claire is a proud member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society and a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Colorado.

Claire has experience as a classroom teacher through the Denver Public School’s Math Fellow program, was an Americorps Member at City Year, and has extensive experience as a mental health professional and school social worker as well as a private practice therapist.

Claire brings a level of authenticity to her work, daily and is passionate about advocating for equal education for all and normalizing mental health every day in order to provide a safe space for youth to comfortably voice their struggles. Claire is excited to be on the Dream Team and work alongside other creative and passionate team members.

In her free time, Claire enjoys playing volleyball and kickball, reading, baking, and doing arts and crafts.

You can reach Claire at cpalius@cihadf.org

Desirèe joined the Dream Team in March 2022 as a Clinical Intern. She is originally from Arkansas and has a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of Arkansas is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver. Additionally, she is a certified Yoga Instructor as well as a certified Neuro-linguistic Practitioner! Before starting Graduate School, Desirèe owned and operated a successful online business that focused on mindfulness modalities for female entrepreneurs!

Desirèe brings a high level of empathy to her work and is passionate about social justice, advocacy, intersectionality, and inclusion. She is proud to be a Dream Team member as she enjoys being around like-minded advocates who believe in supporting youth and creating opportunities for success!

When Desirèe is not being a strong advocate for her clients you can find her doing pilates, hiking, and frequenting coffee shops around town!

You can reach Desirèe at dmartin@cihadf.org

Dustin joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Intern in August 2022. He is originally from Bethesda, Maryland. Dustin has a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications and Spanish from College of Charleston and is in the final year of her Master of Social Work program at the University of Denver.

Dustin is dedicated to the work he does and brings a high level of patience and dedication as he works alongside his clients. Dustin provides therapeutic services to his clients in both Spanish and English! He is excited to work on the Dream Team along with other selfless professionals who are committed to supporting local youth and the greater community.

When Dustin is not providing holistic therapy to his clients in both Spanish and English, he enjoys being outdoors and is committed to ensuring that we have a habitable earth for current and future generations. He also enjoys riding his bike, spending time in the park, playing pickleball, and reading for pleasure!

You can reach Dustin at dhacker@cihadf.org

Elizabeth joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Intern in August 2022. She is originally from Boulder, Colorado. Elizabeth is currently completing her Bachelor’s degree at the Metropolitan State University of Denver studying Speech, Language, & Hearing sciences.

She is excited to work on the Dream Team and work alongside others that mutually share the same passion and goal of helping others in the community.

When Elizabeth is not giving others a voice, she enjoys reading Sci-fi – her favorite being “Ready Player One”.

You can reach Elizabeth at: ealmaraz@cihadf.org

Fernando joined the Dream Team in August 2020 before which he was the Senior Manager of Intensive School Support and Redesign in Denver Public Schools. While in that role, he would support school teams and leaders with innovative resources to create sustainable change. Fernando is from Memphis, Tennessee, and has also been a classroom teacher as well as a school administrator – specifically focusing on the turnaround efforts in Denver Public Schools. Fernando is currently pursuing his Doctorate of Education degree from the University of Denver, has a Master of Educational Leadership and Policy from Union University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Fernando serves on the City of Centennial’s Public Safety Advisory Board and is an Affiliate Professor at Metropolitan State University.

Fernando is a strategic thinker and is passionate about working alongside youth and families to ensure they have the resources and skills to be successful throughout their lives. He believes we can change the world with a shared voice and is committed to instilling a love for education as he sees that as the cornerstone for generational change and empowerment. Fernando loves the push the Dream Team gives to not only each other but also their commitment to ensuring youth achieve their full potential.

When Fernando is not connecting with community partners and ensuring we deliver a top-rated enrichment program, you can find him writing, painting, working on his classic cars, or spending time with his wife and two daughters.

You can reach Fernando at: fbranch@cihadf.org or 303-861-5005 Ext. 103

Galen joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Intern in March 2022. He is originally from Boulder, Colorado and has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Colorado College, and is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Denver. Additionally, Galen completed a service year with City Year as a Student Success Coach.

Galen brings a level of empathy and patience to the clients he works alongside. He is happy to join the organization and work alongside the rest of the Dream Team!

When Galen is not studying and working alongside his clients, he enjoys playing music, gaming, hiking, biking, watching movies, and spending time with his friends!

You can reach Galen at gduran@cihadf.org

Gemma joined the Dream Team as a Bachelor Level Clinical Intern in August 2021. She is pursuing her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver and has an Associate of Arts degree from Colorado Mountain College and is originally from Jalisco, Mexico. As a Dreamer in the DACA program herself, Gemma is passionate about ensuring youth and families have support so they can achieve their goals and feel confident that they can achieve anything they set their mind to!

Gemma is committed to equitable treatment within relationships and is excited to be part of the Dream Team and ensure youth and families’ needs are met to ensure they have all the opportunities to thrive.

When Gemma is not elevating the voices and experiences of young people, she is a huge advocate for self-care and enjoys going to the gym. She recognizes that if she doesn’t care for herself, she cannot care for others.

You can reach Gemma at: gcontreras@cihadf.org

Jennifer joined the Dream Team in August 2021 as a Clinical Intern. She is originally from Orlando, Florida, and is pursuing her Master of Social Work from Colorado State University. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Florida. Jennifer has a journal that is published on Amazon, called “My Little Book of Prayers.”

Jennifer is committed to the work she does on the Dream Team and brings a high level of gratitude and empathy to her role. Jennifer values that she gets to work with like-minded people who have the same drive and commitment to creating amazing opportunities for the youth and families we work alongside.

When Jennifer is not creating opportunities to thrive with the youth in our program, she can be found working out, going on hikes, and spending time with her dog.

You can reach Jennifer at: jramirez@cihadf.org

Jocelyn came on as a Clinical Intern in August 2021. She is originally from Colorado and is pursuing a Master of Social Work degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Relations with a minor in International Studies from the University of Colorado – Denver. Jocelyn is proud to have been awarded three academic achievement awards in May 2021 as well as being named the Outstanding Graduate in her field of study.

Jocelyn brings an admirable level of integrity to her work on the Dream Team and is passionate about working towards social justice and equity for underserved communities. Jocelyn’s personal values align with those of Colorado “I Have A Dream” Foundation and she is excited to be part of the Dream Team to uplift families and provide access to individual and family supports in the communities we work alongside of.

When Jocelyn is not lifting the voices of the community, she enjoys baking, reading, and enjoying various sites throughout the city.

You can reach Jocelyn at: jvangundy@cihadf.org

Kim has led the Dream Team since she started with Colorado “I Have A Dream” Foundation in October 2019. Prior to joining our team, she was the CEO of KIPP Colorado Schools. Kim has over 20 years of experience in education having worked as a Teacher, Principal, Director of Professional Development, Chief Academic Officer, and Superintendent. She is originally from Iowa and has a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Organizations from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in History and German from Northwestern University. She was a member of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Leadership Denver Class of 2021 and sits on the Boards of Directors at University Prep, Colorado League of Charter Schools, and The Mockingbird Foundation.

Kim brings a strong commitment to partnering with youth, families, and communities to identify and engage in new opportunities. She believes collaboration is essential in breaking down the inequities caused by systemic oppression. She is proud to work with a team dedicated to putting youth and families first.

When Kim is not partnering and engaging with the community, she can be found spending time with her husband and two children, practicing yoga, hiking, camping, or getting lost in one of the many books she reads all at the same time.

You can reach Kim at: ksia@cihadf.org or 303-861-5005 Ext. 100

Lissette joined the Dream Team in April 2022 as an Engagement Specialist. She is originally from Los Angeles, California, and has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Colorado at Boulder and is in the process of pursuing her Master’s Degree.

Lissette is passionate about working with youth and working alongside them to see their potential and sharing new experiences with them! She is excited to join the Dream Team and work with like-minded individuals and youth to create a bright and more inclusive future.

In her free time, Lissette likes to cook, be with her friends and work on charcoal drawings!

You can reach Lissette at luribe@cihadf.org

Mary Elizabeth joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Intern in March 2022. She is originally from Alabama but has lived in Virginia for the last 19 years. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Spanish from Virginia Common Wealth University and is in the final year of her Master of Social Work program at Virginia Common Wealth.

Mary Elizabeth is dedicated to empowering youth identities and capabilities, providing accessible resources to minority populations, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights Empowering youth identities and capabilities; self-advocating; self-care; LGBTQ+ rights; providing accessible resources to minority populations She is excited to join the organization and appreciates the welcoming nature and kindness of her Dream Team peers.

When Mary Elizabeth is not self-advocating and working on her own self-care practices, she enjoys Hiking, walks with her dog, dancing, baking, thrifting, roller skating, and creating art.

You can reach Mary Elizabeth at mminor@cihadf.org

Malik joined the Dream Team in September 2021 as the Program Manager at Z Place Opportunity Center. He is originally from Kansas City, Missouri. Malik joined the team with significant experience in higher education settings. He has a Master in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Colorado State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication from Iowa State University. Malik is certified in Adult Mental Health First Aid.

Malik brings a level of authenticity to his work on the Dream Team and is passionate about social justice. His favorite part about working on this team is the passion each person has for the work they do and feels this aids in the connections built with youth. He believes the collective strengths of the team create experiences youth enjoy while they are pushed to learn and grow in a variety of ways – not to mention the fun that is had along the way!

When Malik is not facilitating the day-to-day operations of the center, you can find him playing or watching basketball, working out, writing poetry, or searching for new music.

You can reach Malik at: mburton@cihadf.org or 303-861-5005 Ext. 129

Morgan joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Intern in August 2022. She is originally from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Morgan played division 1 basketball at Florida Gulf Coast University & Oklahoma State University where she earned her a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in English. She is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver.

Morgan is committed to authentically showing up and allowing space for her clients to bring their true selves and vulnerabilities into the space. She is dedicated to understanding the minds and positions of others and is passionate about the LGBTQ+ community and giving marginalized communities a space where they feel welcome, valued, listened to, accepted, and important. She is excited to work on the Dream Team and to be part of an organization that cares deeply about the individuals that make up their team. Morgan notes, “knowing that I am cared for, makes the weight of caring for others lighter. The world is heavy enough, but the Dream Team reveals to me the impact I can make not only in my client’s lives, but in the world.”

When Morgan is not helping others discover their authentic selves while growing and nurturing her own identity. she enjoys being immersed in nature, spending time with her Golden Doodle, and soaking up the atmosphere of live music, art, and poetry. She also loves to indulge in new food spots and surround herself with the energy of the people that make her feel most alive.

You can reach Morgan at mmeacham@cihadf.org

Paige joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Intern in August 2022. She is originally from Tucson, Arizona, and has her Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Sciences from Northern Arizona University. She is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver. Paige is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer in Ethiopia and has worked in social work for two years.

Paige brings an unwavering level of compassion to her work. She is passionate about serving marginalized communities, social justice, working with queer youth and sex education. She is excited to work on the Dream Team and to be part of an organization that is dedicated to working alongside the communities in ways that are accessible and being in a workspace where social justice is highly valued.
She is also very excited to meet with and get to know my clients and is honored to be a part of their journey!

When Paige is not building a strong relationship with her clients, she enjoys weightlifting and doing CrossFit, baking, and cooking, or hiking and being outdoors. If it is the weekend, you can find Paige working at a local coffee shop!

You can reach Paige at: pkimble@cihadf.org

Patrick joined the Dream Team as a Clinical Intern in August 2022. He is originally from Northern Virginia, outside of Washington D.C. Patrick has a Bachelor in Economics from Wheaton College in Illinois and is in the first year of her Master of Social Work program at Colorado State University.

Patrick is dedicated to providing trauma-informed care and using strengths-based approaches to supporting clients in living their lives to the fullest. He is excited to work on the Dream Team and to have The opportunity to both support and empower members in the community and help them recognize their potential

When Patrick is not meeting youth in the program where they are, he enjoys traveling around the world, learning hip-hop dance, and doing anything sports related!

You can reach Patrick at ptully@cihadf.org

Sophie came to the Dream Team as the Clinical Manager in February 2020 from Children’s Hospital Colorado where she worked as a Mental Health Counselor in the Pediatric Mental Health Institute. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Colorado and a National Professional Counselor. She has a great deal of experience in working with people, specifically youth, who are experiencing grief and loss. Sophie is proud to say she is originally from Denver! She has a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Denver. She enjoys research and data analysis and has been published in 15 articles in the field of Behavioral Health and Engineering.

Sophie brings a level of humility and empathy to her work and is the dedicated leader of our Clinical Internship program, ensuring the next generation of mental health professionals leaves their intern experience highly skilled in this work. Sophie is skilled at providing a safe space for community members to be authentic and feel love and support. She loves that the Dream Team members support one another and share the same values and passion for working alongside youth and families.

When Sophie is not training the next generation of mental health workers, she loves spending time with her husband and daughter and their dog, Olive. You can usually find them around Denver enjoying new sites or in the mountains somewhere.

You can reach Sophie at: ssilver@cihadf.org or 303-861-5005 Ext. 121

Steph joined the Dream Team thirteen years ago and currently works as the Vice President of Finance and Operations. She is a fourth-generation Coloradoan; however, she spent nearly a decade in Maui, Hawaii where she worked at Paradise Television and the Pacific Whale Foundation. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications with an emphasis on public relations and advertising and a Minor in sociology from the University of Northern Colorado.

Steph grounds our team and brings light and positivity to all she encounters! She is passionate about the work we do at Colorado “I Have A Dream” Foundation and believes that together we can create a just, sustainable, and equitable future for all generations to come – as John Lennon once said, “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”

When Steph is not at work, you can find her enjoying time with her family and friends, hanging with her pup, Nalu, surrounding herself in the beauty of the mountains, or seeing some live music.

You can reach Stephanie at: sdreiling@cihadf.org or 303-861-5005 Ext. 104

Summer joined the Dream Team in July 2021 as the Director of College and Career Development. Prior to joining the team, she worked at Community College of Aurora in the Concurrent Enrollment program assisting High School age youth to complete college credit while they are finishing their high school degree. Summer is from Northern California and has a Master of Arts in English, Rhetoric, and Composition from Oregon State University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Princeton University.

Summer is dependable and committed to college access and success for historically excluded populations. She appreciates the dedication that the Dream Team, as a whole, has to meet youth and families where they are at as well as the encouragement and support to the youth to uplift themselves.

When Summer is not ensuring that youth are college and career ready, she can be found reading, exercising, and crafting.

You can reach Summer at: swimberly@cihadf.org or 303-861-5005 Ext. 128

Taylor joined the Dream Team in April 2022 as the Program Coordinator at Westwood Opportunity Center. Prior to joining the Dream Team, Taylor worked as a High School Fine Arts teacher in Denver. Taylor is originally from Denver, Colorado, and has a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Taylor has a Colorado educator’s license to teach K-12 Theatre.

Taylor brings a high level of empathy to her work daily and is passionate about teaching youth as well as spreading kindness. Additionally, Taylor loves the passion that other Dream Team members bring to this work!

In her free time, Taylor loves going to Target, doing puzzles, and enjoying brunch at spots around town!

You can reach Taylor at: tvaughn@cihadf.org

Victoria joined the Dream Team in March 2022 as a Clinical Intern. She grew up as a Military child; however, currently calls Colorado Springs her home. She has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Drexel University and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver. Additionally, Victoria is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer of Fiji.

Victoria is working hard to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and is passionate about encouraging self-care to contribute to the overall well-being of the mind, body, and soul. Victoria loves the opportunity she is getting at Colorado “I Have A Dream” Foundation to work with youth, getting to know their unique personalities, and is hopeful that she will make a positive impact on their development.

When Victoria is not encouraging the emotional development of her clients, she likes to do creative activities – such as drawing, baking, and embroidery. Additionally, she enjoys yoga and has recently learned the art of hoop dancing!

You can reach Victoria at vchappelear@cihadf.org