Dr. Raven Jones (she/hers)

Director

As Director of the Center for Student Empowerment, Dr. Raven Jones enhances the quality of education for UH students within the CSE program. As an avid researcher, program developer, and trainer, Dr. Jones’s research concentrates on the cultural resources within urban communities that can be utilized to improve the resiliency and psychological development of underrepresented students. Through the program, Dr. Jones prevents minor obstacles from becoming major setbacks to degree achievement.

Steven Samaniego

Assistant Director

Steven brings nearly ten years of experience in social services, with a strong focus on empowering underserved communities. Steven’s commitment to student success has been a driving force throughout his career, and he continues to play a vital role in fostering supportive environments where students can thrive both personally and academically.

In his most recent role as Program Coordinator for TRIO Student Support Services at Dallas College, Steven led the planning, coordination, and execution of initiatives designed to enhance student retention and success. He effectively leveraged internal resources and community partnerships to create impactful programming tailored to the needs of underserved students. Notably, he co-developed the TXWES TRIO Boys to Men Leadership Program, a mentorship initiative for male participants. This initiative significantly improved male student engagement, participation, and retention while strengthening relationships within the TRIO community.
Before joining TRIO Student Support Services, Steven served as a Case Manager for the Dallas Promise and Rising Star programs at Dallas College. In this role, he provided essential advising and support to students, building strong, trust-based relationships that fostered academic and personal growth. These experiences have given Steven valuable insight into the unique challenges faced by marginalized students, as well as the tools and strategies necessary to help them overcome barriers and succeed.

Steven earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Texas at Arlington, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to supporting student well-being. His academic background underscores a holistic perspective, combining physical, mental, and emotional wellness to better address the needs of students.

Juliet Ogbonna (she/hers)

Care Manager

Juliet is a seasoned social worker, working tirelessly to ensure health and wellness, thus preventing mental health crises among individuals, families, and communities. Juliet has worked across countries and has outstanding progressive social work experience in non-profit, human services, mental health, and higher education. Through her work, she has helped address social issues such as death by suicide, mental crisis, child neglect and abuse, homelessness, involuntary psychiatric hospitalization and rehospitalization, food and financial insecurity, and social isolation.

Juliet has worked with a diverse client population experiencing chronic mental health conditions and intergenerational trauma.

Juliet received an Associate in Social Work degree from MacEwan University, Edmonton, Alberta, and a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from the University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. She recently graduated from the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, majoring in Clinical Social Work.

As a Care Manager for the Centre for Student Empowerment (CSE), Juliet will continue using evidence-based clinical social work skills to develop and manage innovative services designed to increase student success by assisting students with medical, psychological, psychiatric, social, financial, and academic needs.

Kathleen Guzman (she/hers)

Program Manager

Kathleen is a first‑generation, post‑traditional college graduate whose personal journey fuels her passion for supporting students. She has extensive experience mentoring youth and tutoring learners of all ages, including adults pursuing their GED. Her work as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) strengthened her ability to support individuals with diverse needs, communicate with empathy, and guide others through challenges, skills she now brings to her work with First‑Generation students at the University of Houston.

Kathleen's background in psychology and HR provides a strong foundation for helping students build confidence, develop professional skills, and navigate their academic and career paths.

In her role as Program Manager for First‑Generation student programs at the Center for Student Empowerment, Kathleen is dedicated to empowering students with the resources, support, and encouragement they need to achieve their goals.

Eric Callis (he/his)

Program Coordinator

As an educator and community advocate, Eric’s approach to service is rooted in creativity and a deep passion for supporting children, students, and families. With nearly a decade of experience in higher education and nonprofit services, Eric has supported students through academic guidance, financial aid support, social services, and coordinated community-based programs. Through these roles, Eric has grown as a community servant while developing strong skills in curriculum design and implementation, effective presentation, and building meaningful relationships with students, families, and institutional partners.

As a Program Coordinator for the Center for Student Empowerment (CSE), Eric is dedicated to helping students build a strong sense of belonging and connection on campus. Eric looks forward to continuing a career rooted in service while further growing and developing as a servant leader.