Our Staff

This table has two columns. Profile photos are in the first column, contact and bio information in the second column.
Bio information about the SVMEP staff
photo of jolynne bartley

Jolynne Bartley

Associate Director of Children and Youth Services
Office 2202
540-568-4113
bartl2jx@jmu.edu

Jolynne has worked with the Institute for a combined time of almost five years, first as an Early Literacy Specialist for the Gus Bus, then as the Gus Bus Program Coordinator, and now as the Associate Director of Children & Youth Services. She supervises staff and manages the administrative, logistical, and programmatic elements that ensure successful implementation of the Gus Bus program, Shenandoah Valley Migrant Education Program, Future Forward and Healthy Families. She oversees these grant-funded projects and programs, serving children, youth and families throughout the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. She has a B.S. in Arts Education from the University of Central Florida, an MPA from James Madison University, concentrating in Nonprofit Management, and a Certificate of Nonprofit Management.

photo of nancy resendiz

Nancy Resendiz Mejia

Program Director
Office 2206
540-568-3666
resendnx@jmu.edu

Nancy is the Program Director for the Shenandoah Valley Migrant Education Program. She supervises program staff, manages the tutoring program, and fulfills daily program duties. Having been a student of the Shenandoah Valley Migrant Education Program herself, she aims to support migrant youth in the Shenandoah valley in receiving equitable services in the community that allow them to reach their full potential. Nancy has been working for the program since 2014.

photo of mónica pizano

Mónica Pizano

Lead Family Education Specialist
Specializes in Harrrisonburg City and Rockingham County
Office 2204
pizanomi@jmu.edu

Monica is an experienced educator who provides direct support to migrant families. With a diverse background in education since 2018, she has experience teaching English as a second language in South Korea and Uruguay, as well as working in higher education in both Georgia and Virginia. With a passion for education, she is dedicated to being a positive resource for students and their families. As a Gilman and Fulbright scholar, she takes joy in connecting students with opportunities that align with their aspirations. Outside of her work, Monica is an avid traveler who cherishes beach days and a has special love for pugs.

Nelson Sanchez

Community Outreach Specialist
Office 2208
sanch2nj@jmu.edu

photo of grace rascon

Grace Rascon

Part-Time Family Education Specialist
Specializes in Winchester City and the Counties of Shenandoah, Frederick, Fauquier, Prince William and Clarke
Office 2208
rascongx@jmu.edu

 Grace is a part-time Family Education Specialist for the Shenandoah Valley Migrant Education Program. She is passionate in helping migrant children and their parents to succeed. She builds positive relationships with families, advocating for their educational needs. Grace is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s of Arts in International Affairs. And a minor in Spanish-English translation and Interpretation.

““When I meet a family they inspire me, to never give up, as they have done.”