Team

Ashlei Collins leads all efforts to maintain, promote, and support programs and services provided by the GEAR UP SWV grant to cohort students. Collins is the project leader for SSA, Tutor.com, and CCC. She assists teachers with integrating resources into their classrooms, creating ready-made lesson plans for utilizing the resources, and visiting classrooms to help students access and use the resources available.

Ms. Robinson is the Family Engagement Coordinator at GEAR UP SWV. She enjoys working with the Local Coordinators to ensure that families receive the resources needed for their students to be successful. She also hosts family events and family college tours. Ms. Robinson graduated from Bluefield State College.

Emily Peck graduated from Concord University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing and Accounting as well as an MBA. Emily works closely with the subrecipients and partners on reimbursements and the financial records to ensure compliance. Emily works on budgets, reimbursements, contracts, and anything else that pops up in this area.

Jennifer “Jenn” Frame serves as GEAR UP SWV’s Partnership Coordinator. She manages the county work plans, amendments, data, and budgets throughout the year, working directly with the Local Coordinators in each county to help them meet GEAR UP goals and objectives. Jenn has a Bachelor’s degree from Fairmont State University with a double major in Psychology and Sociology, and she is completing a Master’s in Social Work at Concord University.

Jessica Doty (Lilly) brings more than 14 years of award-winning journalism and strategic communications experience to GEAR UP SWV. She leads media relations while crafting messages that authentically represent Appalachian communities. Jessica spearheaded the launch of WVCU, Concord University’s student-run radio station, and has earned national honors, including a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award and a Regional Emmy nomination. She served on the Virginias Associated Press Board of Directors for 10 years and holds a B.A. in Communications with an emphasis in both Electronic Media and Public Relations, as well as an MBA from Concord University. Jessica also serves on the NCCEP/GEAR UP Communications Advisory Committee.

Kristen Williams is responsible for coordinating summer programming initiatives and organizing college visit experiences for students. Before this role, Williams served as the Director of Veterans Upward Bound under the TRIO program. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from Concord University, a Master of Science degree from Appalachian State University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration with a minor in Psychology from Bluefield State University.

As an Administrative Assistant with GEAR UP SWV, Marcus Wilson brings a kind and compassionate approach to supporting students, families, and staff. Known for being reliable and respectful, Wilson ensures daily operations run smoothly while maintaining a selfless commitment to GEAR UP SWV’s mission. Marcus holds a Health Promotion degree from Concord, where he cultivated strong organizational and communication skills. His honest work ethic and dedication make him a trusted team member in helping students achieve their educational goals.

Sandra “Sandy” Sheatsley is the Assistant Director of Federal Programs. Sheatsley supports outreach, proposal development, and policy enforcement to ensure program efficiency and federal compliance. With over 40 years in education, she has professional experience as a teacher, principal, academic coach, Director of Elementary Education and Federal Programs, and Assistant Superintendent in Raleigh County Schools. Sandy was also the first National Board Certified Teacher in the Raleigh County. Sandy holds a BS from The Ohio State University and an MA from Marshall University.

Sheila Barnhart Womack serves as the Interim Director, providing support and guidance to the team as GEAR UP SWV provides impactful services to Southern WV scholars. She has over 10 years of experience in grants and administrative roles. Sheila holds a Doctor of Musical Arts, also a Master’s of Music degree from West Virginia University and a Bachelor’s of Music degree from Westminster College.

With over 22 years of experience in public education, including roles as a teacher, athletic director, assistant principal, and principal, Tammy Mills is the GEAR UP Coordinator and Community Outreach Specialist at New River Community and Technical College. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, both from Concord University. She’s a student-centered, passionate leader dedicated to empowering students and making a lasting impact on their futures.