Barnard College Barnard College
Opportunity Programs

Meet the Staff

The Opportunity Programs' staff is committed to providing opportunities that will enrich and complement the intellectual life of all students, with a particular focus on students of color, first-generation and low-income students.  The staff works in collaboration with various College offices to engage students in rigorous academic experiences while providing the support needed to meet academic challenges and to “discover their own capabilities." 

Elida Martinez-Gaynor
Director, Opportunity Programs

  • Directs the academic year and summer session of the collegiate opportunities programs (HEOP/ CSTEP/BOP).
  • Contact: emartine@barnard.edu

Raul Cervantes
Senior Associate Director, Opportunity Programs 

  • Directs the academic year and summer session of the collegiate opportunities programs (HEOP/ CSTEP/BOP).
  • Contact: rcervant@barnard.edu

Ava Thomas
Academic Counselor, Collegiate Programs

  • Adviser to HEOP, CSTEP & BOP scholars for academic, career, or personal matters.
  • Contact: acthomas@barnard.edu

Jiovana Dawson
Administrative Assistant, Collegiate Programs