As a DC resident for the last decade, she’s incredibly excited to be supporting her community achieve their dreams by providing unparalleled support towards degree attainment. Prior to joining DCPS, Cait was a Program Director with a college access organization serving first generation, low-income, immigrant, and BIPOC students in Montgomery County, Maryland. Cait has also worked at the University of Maryland, American University, Bucknell University, and Long Island University in First Year Experience, Staff Recruitment & Training, Residence Life, and Family Engagement.  Cait is passionate about personal finance, helping other’s achieve financial freedom, and making sure students have strong financial fit options on their college list.

Damaria Joyner is a dedicated professional from Boston, Massachusetts. She is a first-generation college student, with a BA in Criminal Justice from Delaware State University and a Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy from Boston College. Her journey has been driven by a passion for post-secondary success. From mentoring undergraduates in their early years to serving as a policy intern with New England Board of Higher Education, middle school teacher, and post-secondary success advisor, her diverse experiences have fortified her belief in the transformative power of higher education. She is committed to breaking generational barriers for students. As well as fostering a strong and inclusive community that celebrates growth and success. In her free time she enjoys practicing self care, traveling, cooking, and spending time with loved ones.

Deborah P. Bitanga grew up in the Philippines and immigrated to Kodiak, Alaska at age 12. She is a first-generation master’s graduate of Teachers College, Columbia University in Sociology and Education Policy and a Gates Millennium Scholar. Deborah has worked directly with first-generation, low-income, and rural immigrant students from Alaska, Washington, and New York City in navigating college, scholarships, FAFSA, internship and job applications. She recently interned at the Lumina Foundation. Deborah’s excited to bring her professional background and lived experiences to support each student in persisting through graduation and beyond. She enjoys biking, creating oil pastel art, visiting the library, and raising her indoor plants.

Ertrell Harris boasts nearly a decade of dedicated service in the realm of higher education and college access. Hailing from South Carolina, Ertrell’s journey began at Howard University, where she achieved her academic dreams as a first-generation student with limited financial resources. She later earned her Master’s degree at George Washington University. Prior to joining DCPS, Ertrell made significant contributions to two college access programs, both with a specific focus on assisting students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in matriculating to best-fit colleges. She also gained valuable experience working within the admissions offices of three different universities. Through her roles, Ertrell has passionately assisted students in their pursuit of an ideal higher education experience while minimizing their financial burdens. What Ertrell loves most about her profession is forging meaningful connections and empowering students to unlock and manifest their full potential.