Sondra Aikens is a proud graduate of Monroe Comprehensive High School. She earned an associate degree in business management from Albany Technical College, a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership from Valdosta State University, and a Master of Science in organizational leadership from Columbus State University.

As a member of the GEAR UP team, Ms. Aikens is committed to supporting student success through initiatives focused on college and career readiness, academic achievement, and postsecondary access across the Dougherty County School System. She is passionate about helping students recognize their potential and prepare for future opportunities.

Outside of her professional role, Ms. Aikens enjoys mentoring, leadership development, and serving her community through programs that encourage lifelong learning and positive outcomes for youth and families. Her personal motto is: “Every student deserves the opportunity to dream, achieve, and succeed.”

Shamonica Clark Stephenson is a proud graduate of Monroe Comprehensive High School. She earned an associate degree in early childhood education from Albany Technical College, a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from Albany State University, and a master’s degree in public relations from Middle Georgia State University.

With more than 20 years of experience in early childhood education and parent engagement, Mrs. Stephenson is passionate about supporting students and families while encouraging educational success. As a member of the GEAR UP team, she is dedicated to helping students build the confidence and readiness needed to pursue higher education and career opportunities.

Guided by her personal motto, “It is never too late to finish what you have started,” Mrs. Stephenson strives to inspire students to persevere, reach their goals, and embrace lifelong learning.

Ashley Williams is a proud graduate of Calhoun County High School. She earned a Master of Education in school counseling from Albany State University and a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Columbus State University.

As a GEAR UP site coordinator for the Dougherty County School System, Ms. Williams brings a strong background in educational leadership, student support, program evaluation, and community wellness. She is dedicated to empowering students to achieve academic success while preparing for postsecondary education and career opportunities.

Driven by a passion for educational equity, student leadership development, and family engagement, Ms. Williams is committed to helping young people discover their potential and build pathways to college, careers, and lifelong achievement. Her personal motto is: “When students are equipped, empowered, and encouraged, possibilities become achievements.”

Melvin Drake is a proud graduate of Albany High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology, with a minor in anthropology, from Virginia Commonwealth University.

As a member of the GEAR UP team, Mr. Drake is dedicated to helping students achieve academic success while preparing for college and career opportunities. Known for his passion for basketball and youth development, he strives to inspire, mentor, and empower students to reach their full potential.

Through leadership, relationship-building, and student advocacy, Mr. Drake is committed to creating opportunities that support students both academically and personally as they work toward lifelong success.

Pertha Robinson is a proud graduate of Dougherty Comprehensive High School and the University of Georgia, where he earned a degree in consumer economics.

As an educational professional, Mr. Robinson is committed to helping middle and high school students achieve academic success while preparing for future college and career opportunities. With extensive experience in student support services, college readiness programming, and family engagement, he works closely with students, educators, families, and community partners to create meaningful pathways to postsecondary success.

Passionate about empowering young people to reach their full potential, Mr. Robinson focuses on academic enrichment, leadership development, and career exploration while guiding students through the transition from secondary education to higher education and the workforce.

Jocelyn Roberts is a proud graduate of Albany High School and a three-time graduate of Albany State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology, a Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Social Work.

Now in her seventh year with GEAR UP, Ms. Roberts is grateful for the opportunity to support and encourage students as they prepare for the future. She is passionate about helping young people develop the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to reach their full potential and pursue success beyond high school.

Through her dedication to student development and college and career readiness, Ms. Roberts remains committed to making a positive impact in the lives of students and families throughout the Dougherty County School System.

Dr. Eliason was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah.  He attended the College of Eastern Utah where he earned an Associate’s Degree with an emphasis in Art.  Next, he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Art (Drawing and Painting) and Business Administration from Southern Utah University. He received a Master’s Degree in Art (Printmaking) and a Doctorate Degree in Research and Evaluation Methodology from Utah State University.  Dr. Eliason chose his doctoral major because he was interested in researching the impacts and efficacy of educational and social programs.

Dr. Eliason loves Utah State University because it offers a broad range of degrees from art to zoology and is a national leader in space sciences education. Also, their football team was ranked #14 last year-Go Aggies!

Earlier in his career, Dr. Eliason was the Executive Director of the Discovery on Wheels hands-on science outreach program at Utah State University. Currently, he is the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Research and Evaluation for Spectrum Research, Evaluation, and Development. 

Outside of work, Dr. Eliason has a broad range of interests which include art, sports, snorkeling, museums, and travel.  Dr. Eliason’s goal for GEAR UP Dougherty is to assist project implementation by providing timely feedback to project stakeholders, enabling them to make data-driven decisions pursuant to helping students achieve their academic, career preparation, and personal goals.