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 working alongside young people connected to the foster care system since 2010, when she began her career at Seneca Family of Agencies as an Intensive Treatment Foster Care Support Counselor. She later continued this work at Las Positas College as the campus Foster and Homeless Liaison, helping students navigate college systems and connect with resources. When the State of California expanded NextUp funding to all community colleges in 2023, Las Positas College was able to formally establish its foster youth support program. Amanda now serves as the NextUp Coordinator, helping build the program and ensure students with foster care experience have access to the resources, guidance, and support they need to succeed in college. Amanda’s goal is simple: to make sure students with foster care experience know they have someone on campus who is here to help. Whether students need help navigating financial aid, connecting to campus services, or just figuring out the next step in college, the NextUp program is here to support them every step of the way.

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.