Meet the Peer Success Coaches

Coaches

A profile picture of Kevin Cerreno Wissar.

Title: Peer Success Coach

Email: [email protected]

Field of Interest: Computer and Information Technology - Computer Science

Bio:

Hello, my name is Kevin and I am a computer science major here at Glendale Community College. My goal is to graduate with my associate degree and transfer to ASU, where I plan to earn my bachelor's and then a master's degree.

A fun fact about me is that I am trilingual: I am fluent in Spanish and English, and I'm at an intermediate level in Portuguese.

As an immigrant, first-generation student, and student worker, I understand many of the struggles students face while navigating higher education. I am dedicated to helping you succeed by offering support with things like time management, scholarship applications, professional development, communication skills, and study tips. I am a TheDream.US scholarship recipient and have also interned with a non-profit organization that works to support the communities within Arizona, so beyond my professional goals, I also have made a personal commitment to support my community in any way I can and with my role here as a Peer Success Coach that extends to the students, I interact with every day like you!

Campus Affiliations:

  • Phi Theta Kappa
  • HSI Excellence

A profile picture of Robert Arbolida.

Title: Peer Success Coach

Email: [email protected]

Field of Interest: Computer Information Technology - Applied Computing

Bio:

Hello! I am an empathic peer coach who is passionate about enhancing student success. I earned an Associate's degree in Applied Computing and am pursuing a Bachelor's in Computer Science at ASU. I leverage my extensive academic background, knowledge about GCC, and personal commitment to guide students toward achieving their educational and personal goals. As a Peer Success Coach, my role allows me to improve student retention rates by developing and implementing effective academic and personal support strategies. My exceptional dedication to student well-being and achievement was recognized by GCC, receiving the 2023 Gaucho Globe Innovation of the Year Award, further validating my commitment to this field.

Campus Affiliation:

  • Honors Program
  • Phi Theta Kappa

A profile picture of Valeria Nuno.

Title: Peer Success Coach

Email: [email protected]

Field of Interest: Health Sciences - Nursing | Behavioral Science and Human Services

Bio:

BIO: Hi there :D ! My name is Valeria, but I usually just go by vale! (Think of when Pitbull says 'dale' but with a v) I am currently a student at NAU majoring in Applied Human Behaviors, and graduated from GCC in the Spring of 2025 with my Applied Associates in the Behavioral Health Sciences with a Specialization in Early Infant and Childhood Mental Health. I was awarded certificates for the Foundations of Behavioral Sciences, Advanced Behavioral Sciences, my Associate in Arts, as well as invited to join Phi Theta Kappa and am a proud member of the organization.

As a second-generation immigrant and the first person in my family to graduate from college, I am extremely proud to say that I wouldn't have been able to do it without the support of my family! Since I am currently balancing my academic, social, and professional life; I definitely understand how busy things can get and can provide some tips for time-management, staying balanced, and overall feeling more prepared to reach your academic goals!

Thanks to my background I've been able to help students navigate the confusion of college life and all of the stressors that come with it- so hopefully I can support you too :D

A profile picture of Mena Muhammad.

Title: Peer Success Coach

Email: [email protected]

Field of Interest: Visual and Performing Arts; Behavioral Science and Human Services

Bio:

Peace & Blessings Everyone!

My name is Mena (Mee-nah) Muhammad, and I am completing my AAS in Behavioral Health Sciences with an emphasis in Criminal Justice here at GCC!

I currently serve as President of the Associated Student Government and previously held the role of President of the Black Student Union, where I remain an active member. I am passionate about leadership, community work, and creative expression. I continue to help create spaces for connection, empowerment, and growth.

Outside of school, I'm a huge creative at heart. A few of my deep passions are graphics, music, photography, event hosting, and collaborating with artists. I also dedicate time to volunteering, working with the community, and the youth. Making sure to take initiatives that make a difference.

As a Peer Success Coach, my goal is to help you overcome challenges, strengthen your life skills, and step confidently into your future. Though our paths may differ, we can walk alongside one another, learning, growing, and reaching our goals together.

Campus Affiliations:

  • President, Associated Student Government
  • Former President & Current Member, Black Student Union

A profile picture of Rachel Stigsell.

Title: Peer Success Coach

Email: [email protected]

Field of Interest: STEM - Biology

Bio:

Bio: Hi y'all!! My name is Rachel, and I graduated from GCC with an AS in Biology in Spring 2025. While at GCC, I was an honors student and PTK member. I was also honored to be a member of the 2025 All-Arizona Academic Team and a Coca-Cola scholar. I'm currently pursuing my Bachelor's degree in Biology at ASU as a Barrett Honors student. Eventually, I'd like to work in wildlife conservation with a focus on herpetology (reptiles and amphibians).

I also worked at GCC as a Student Ambassador, so I'm very familiar with the resources available on campus. As a coach, I enjoy helping my students plan for their futures and achieve their goals. Navigating college can be challenging, but I'd love to help you on your journey!

Campus Affiliations:

  • Honors Program
  • Phi Theta Kappa

A profile picture of Marisela Pacheco.

Title: Program Coordinator

Email: [email protected]

Bio:

I am a proud first-generation college graduate and the first in my family to pursue higher education, which has deepened my commitment to student success. Having personally navigated the challenges of college, I understand the resilience, determination, and dedication it takes to reach the finish line. I began my journey at GateWay Community College, where I earned an Associate in Arts, a Nursing Assistant Certificate, and a Health Unit Coordinator Certificate. I later completed my Bachelor’s degree in Government with an emphasis in Legal Studies from Grand Canyon University.

With this background, I am excited about the opportunity to continue contributing in a collaborative and student-centered environment. I am dedicated to enhancing the student experience by supporting both students and coaches, empowering them to thrive academically and beyond.