School Counseling Ambassadors

Each year, students with strong school counselor identities and academic achievements are awarded the Dr. Benjamin G. and Marion Kremen Academic Endowment. Awardees are promising graduate students who understand the importance of service all K-12 students and families and present a desire to serve the community in the capacity of the school counselor role, including through advocacy and presenting an equity lens.

This group of students have the opportunity to volunteer as ambassadors for the program in multiple capacities, including assisting with recruitment, peer consulting and branding the program.

Amber Fontanilla - President

I chose school counseling because I know the impact of having a supportive adult who believes in a student’s potential. In my own education, I often lacked that safe space, which motivates me to create it for others. My purpose as a school counselor is to ignite a passion for growth and learning in students who may not yet see their own strengths. I am committed to advocating for those who deserve more from our education system, ensuring they feel seen, supported, and valued. Building meaningful connections with students is central to my work, because those relationships create the trust and encouragement needed for growth. My goal is to guide students in overcoming barriers, caring for their well-being, and exploring meaningful opportunities for their future.

Sureima I. Santillan - Vice President

I chose the School Counseling program at Fresno State because I have a deep passion for helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential. I was inspired by the best Upward Bound TRIO counselor, who guided me and showed me firsthand the impact a dedicated counselor can have on students’ lives. The TRIO community taught me the importance of advocacy and how to support students in navigating systemic barriers. I want to continue this work by empowering students, helping them find their strengths, and guiding them toward academic and personal success. Fresno State’s program stood out to me because it emphasizes equity, cultural responsiveness, and hands-on experiences, qualities that align perfectly with the kind of counselor I aspire to be. 

Jessica Cortez - Treasuer

I pursued my career in school counseling because I am deeply committed to supporting students in all aspects of their lives—academically, emotionally, and socially. I believe that every student deserves a trusted advocate who can help them navigate challenges and create opportunities for growth. Being that support system and guiding students toward their full potential gives me a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Juliana Matthews - Secretary

My experiences working in education as an AVID tutor and substitute teacher solidified my decision to pursue a career in school counseling. I genuinely enjoy working with students and am passionate about supporting their academic, college, career, and social/emotional development. Every year it has been rewarding seeing students grow and reach their full potential. I’m excited to continue serving students in the Central Valley and contributing to their success. 

Raul Villar

I chose school counseling because I want to make a difference in students' lives the same way others believed in me. As someone who took a long and winding path through education, I understand the power of having someone in your corner who sees your potential even when you don't. I've seen firsthand how much it means when a counselor or mentor helps students navigate academic challenges, explore career options, and feel seen for who they are. Becoming a school counselor allows me to be that person for students who might be unsure of themselves or their future.

Alexis Yrigollen

I chose school counseling because I want to help students overcome any adversities they may be facing during school or at home. I remember being in high school and needing someone to turn to, and I was lucky enough to have great support teachers and counselors who helped me find my passion. My goal is to ensure each and every student is prepared for post secondary lifelong learning and reach their maximum potential for success. My hope is to help each student become their own advocate and take charge in their future to make an impact with a career they will enjoy. There are many pathways that students can choose from, and I would like to help students find their interests that could potentially turn into a successful career. As a school counselor I am aiming for all students to understand how we can help academically, social-emotionally, and provide extensive support for college and career readiness.

Karen Zamora

I chose to pursue counseling because it offers the opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact on students' lives. This role allows me to support students academically, socially, and emotionally while also serving as an advocate for those who may be facing daily challenges. As a school counselor, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel seen, heard, and empowered to be themselves. Ultimately, being a school counselor means providing leadership, guidance, and support to help students navigate their personal and educational 

Jianna Bayless

I chose school counseling because I want to be the person who listens, supports, and believes in students when they need it the most. I believe all students deserve to feel seen, heard and celebrated. I hope to be that person to all future students.

Steven Lee

I chose school counseling because I am deeply committed to serving and supporting all students academically, socially, emotionally, and in their college and career journeys. Whether it's navigating the path to higher education or stepping into the workforce, I want every student to know that they deserve the same opportunities to succeed no matter their background. As a first-generation Hmong male student, I know firsthand what it feels like to grow up without access to guidance or information about college. Until my sophomore year of high school, the idea of pursuing higher education felt completely out of reach, almost unreal. It wasn’t that I lacked the potential, but rather the exposure. I was unaware of the possibilities that existed beyond what I could immediately see. Looking back, I felt as though the world’s opportunities were being kept just out of reach and that feeling stuck with me. That experience drives me. It has become my mission to ensure that no student ever feels left behind or overlooked the way I once did. As a school counselor, I aim to be the advocate, guide, and supporter that I once needed, someone who helps students realize their potential, explore their options, and believe in their future.

Luis Jesus Garibay

Growing up, I was lucky enough to receive unconditional support for my education from many adults in schools. Because of the many teachers, admin, and counselors, I felt encouraged to reach beyond what I thought may have been possible. I believe that I can foster the same support and representation for the Fresno I grew up in as many have done for me.  I believe school counseling is the most effective way of supporting Fresno students!

Bianca Gutierrez

I chose to pursue school counseling because I want to be the person I needed growing up. My personal experiences and challenges growing up have motivated me to help students feel seen, heard, and understood; especially those who struggle silently. My vision is to create a warm and welcoming learning environment for students, where they can feel safe to explore and learn, and to promote academic, social-emotional, and college and career growth. I want to bridge the gap between hope and engagement and be the point of contact for parents with questions about creating a better future for their children. I believe that with present, trusting adults on campus, students can succeed without limits and begin to notice that their opportunities are endless, and I hope to be that person in their journey!

Maria Carrasco

Becoming a school counselor has always been a goal of mine at a young age due to the positive impact of a counselor I once had. Coming from an immigrant household and facing challenges when it came to my future, it was comforting having a counselor guide me. I want to be a positive impact to all students as well as the example to first generation students that they can pursue their goals. 

Armando Colores

I chose school counseling because I enjoy working with students and supporting them in their educational journey. I look forward to providing them with a safe and supportive space where they feel understood and encouraged. My goal is to help students build the skills and confidence they need to succeed both academically and personally.

Samantha Torres

I've always been passionate about education and students. I had great counselors in high school who helped me break out of my shell and make strides towards self-discovery. From that point, I knew I wanted to pursue school counseling to pay it forward and continue making differences in students' lives. Working in K-12 and even higher education has reaffirmed my passion and dedication to serving children and youth. I believe students at every age, regardless of their background, deserve someone in their corner who can support their emotional wellbeing, academic success, and a wide array of immediate and future goals. School counseling is such a rewarding profession and l'm honored to be a part of it. 

Norma Hernandez

I chose school counseling because I want to support students in their academic, social, and emotional growth. My goal is to build a culture of belonging where students feel seen and supported, while also preparing them with the confidence and skills to succeed in school and beyond.

Noemi Lopez

I chose school counseling because I’m passionate about supporting students in both their personal and academic journeys. Coming from a low-income first generation background, I understand firsthand what it’s like to navigate the school system without always knowing where to turn for guidance. That experience inspired me to become someone who can offer students the encouragement, resources, and direction they need to feel confident and capable. I plan to create a safe and welcoming space for students and their families to share their hardships while also being someone they can count on to celebrate their successes and achievements.

Kenia Servellon

I chose school counseling because I believe in the power of education and the importance of passing on knowledge to all students. Every student deserves the opportunity to learn in a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive academically, personally, and socially. Education is not just about academics; it’s about helping students develop the skills and confidence they need to navigate through life. Growing up, I was fortunate to have a fantastic counselor who supported me throughout my high school journey. Her guidance and encouragement had a lasting impact on my life, inspiring me to pursue this path so that I can provide the same support to other students. I want to be a positive influence who helps students recognize their potential and overcome obstacles. I plan to create a safe environment for all students by fostering inclusivity, promoting mental health awareness, and addressing each student’s unique needs. I plan to advocate for students’ well-being, helping them build resilience, and empowering them to succeed both inside and outside school.

Sydney Marsoobian

I chose School Counseling because I’ve always had a natural desire to help others feel seen, supported, and capable of growth. As a school counselor, I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where students can explore who they are, set goals, and build resilience. Every student’s journey is unique, and I feel called to walk alongside them with empathy, encouragement, and advocacy—whether that means empowering their self-discovery, supporting families, or breaking down barriers to success!