To create and develop educational professionals who are able to advocate and provide educational opportunities for those who are underserved.
Dear WESTOP Members,
First and foremost, I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits as we embark on the 2025–2026 fiscal year. It is both a privilege and an honor to officially welcome you to the Western Association of Educational Opportunity Personnel (WESTOP). As stated in our mission, we are committed “to creating and developing educational professionals who are able to advocate for and provide educational opportunities for those who are underserved.” This year, we will host five board meetings throughout my presidency, blending virtual and in-person formats. This structure is designed to promote transparency, fiscal responsibility, and meaningful member involvement in decision-making. In the spirit of creating a shared vision, I am sharing an overview of our organizational priorities for 2025-2026. These priorities are focused on supporting the one-year extension of the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, as well as initiating the development of the 2026-2029 Strategic Plan.
2025-2026 Priorities
Priority #1: Professional Development
We will prioritize professional development to equip members with the critical skills needed to enhance career growth, foster succession planning, and strengthen the organization. This includes workshops, roundtables, panels, mentorship programs, and tailored training programs. Your participation in this collective “Call to Action” will be key to creating a dynamic learning environment where new, mid-level, and seasoned professionals can connect, collaborate and uplift one another.
Priority #2: Leveraging Technology
We aim to harness technology to increase access and improve resources. This includes the sunsetting of Cvent and Whova and the integration of our Website into the Memberclicks platform, along with training and support to navigate these tools. Your engagement and feedback will help guide the use of emerging technologies–including AI–in our professional development strategies, enhancing productivity and career growth.
Priority #3: Financial Sustainability
To advance WESTOP’s mission, we will focus on diversifying funding, strengthening budgeting practices, and implementing sound financial planning. Notably, under the guidance of our CFO, we have established a Legal and Professional Services Fund–made possible through a refund provided from Hilton Portland Downtown for the 2025 Annual Conference–to help cover future legal and operational expenses related to our nonprofit status.
Priority #4: Membership Engagement & Advocacy
We are committed to amplifying member voices through consistent communication and feedback. This includes surveys/polls, leadership office hours, and initiatives that celebrate our community. Planned projects include a monthly newsletter, blog or podcast, a revived Youtube channel, and a WESTOP Factbook. Through these efforts, we will highlight member stories, honor past leaders, and uplift emerging voices–ultimately advancing our advocacy at the regional, state, and federal levels.
Membership Update
To support a smooth transition and successful MemberClicks launch, through Past-President Hernandez’s leadership the board approved a “one-time extension of all current WESTOP memberships through July 30, 2025”. The new membership campaign will launch August 1, 2025–please stay tuned for details from our membership and elections chair. With your active membership, you will be able to secure your RSVP and attend our upcoming virtual workshop: “Holding Space While Holding Pain: Navigating Mental Wellness in Times of Uncertainty”
Advocacy and Legislative Update
In light of the ongoing challenges facing educational opportunity programs since the new federal administration, we have restructured the regional Legislation and Education Chair position to now include two co-chairs. I am pleased to announce that Jesus Maldonado will serve alongside Sergio Galvez, and together they will guide our legislative strategy for 2025-2026. More information on how chapters can support this structure will be shared soon.
As Past-President Hernandez noted in her “Deep Gratitude” letter, advocacy and lobbying are often used interchangeably, but they serve distinct purposes. For your convenience, here is COE’s Advocacy versus Lobbying resource. You are also encouraged to review COE's TRIO Summer 2025 Advocacy Efforts Blueprint, which includes a wealth of resources and a timeline of key milestones to help amplify our collective voice.
I am deeply honored to serve as your President for the 2025-2026 year. I look forward to building on President Hernandez’s outstanding work and advancing our shared commitment to collaboration, effective governance, strong advocacy, and educational equity. As Helen Keller reminds us: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This quote embodies our spirit at WESTOP and our commitment to collective progress. Wishing you a safe and happy Independence Day!
With sincere gratitude,
Maria "Sandra" Jimenez, Ph.D.
President, 2025-2026
Message from our 2025 - 2026 President