NextUp

Meet your NextUp Team

Our NextUp Team is so excited to offer program support to current and former foster youth who plan to attend Las Positas College. Our roles as NextUp support staff are to provide support for foster youth from application to completion of degree/certificate or transfer. Please reach out to us with any questions or support.

Amanda Ingold - NextUp Coordinator

Amanda has been actively supporting foster youth since 2010, beginning her career at Seneca Family of Agencies as an Intensive Treatment Foster Care Support Counselor. Her longstanding commitment to this population continued at Las Positas College, where she served as the Foster and Homeless Liaison. In 2023, when the state allocated NextUp funding for all California Community Colleges, Las Positas was able to formally establish an official foster youth support program. Amanda’s role naturally expanded into that of NextUp Coordinator, providing structure and resources to better serve our students with foster care experience. As someone who was adopted herself and later made the decision to adopt, Amanda brings a deeply personal and unique perspective to her work. Her passion for serving foster youth, combined with her professional expertise, fuels her dedication to ensuring foster youth feel seen, supported, and valued as part of the Las Positas community.

Jill Oliveira - NextUp Counselor

Jill serves as the dedicated NextUp Counselor at Las Positas College, bringing over 20 years of experience working with special populations on campus. Her depth of knowledge, compassion, and dynamic counseling style allow her to connect meaningfully with students from all backgrounds, especially those with foster care experience. Jill’s ability to build trust and create a supportive space has made her an invaluable asset to the NextUp program. Her commitment to equity and student success shines through in every interaction, helping foster youth feel understood, empowered, and equipped to reach their goals at Las Positas and beyond.

Melissa Brown - NextUp Senior Counselor Assistant

Mel is a dependable and compassionate support for foster youth as they navigate their college experience. Mel is often one of the first friendly faces students encounter, offering reassurance and guidance with a calm, steady presence. She is always ready to assist with resources, answer questions, or simply provide a moment of encouragement. Mel’s dedication helps foster youth feel supported, empowered, and ready to succeed form the moment they step onto campus.

Maria Glidden - NextUp Counselor Assistant II

As a member of the NextUp team at Las Positas College, Maria brings warmth, empathy, and support to every foster youth she connects with. Maria plays a vital role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel safe and supported. Her support makes it easy for students to feel connected. Whether offering guidance or connecting them to resources, Maria helps ensure that every foster youth knows they belong at Las Positas College.

Sabrina Tom - NextUp Counselor Assistant II

Sabrina serves as a warm and welcoming first point of contact for foster youth beginning their journey at Las Positas College. Her positive attitude, compassion and dedication help create a safe and supportive environment where students feel seen, valued, and encouraged from day one. Whether answering questions, guiding them through the onboarding process, or simply offering a listening ear, Sabrina plays a vital role in helping foster youth feel confident and connected.