Carol has been working internationally for the past 30 years to bring people together and help them fulfill their dreams. In her day job she works as the Quality of Life Director for the City of Las Cruces, NM. She also worked overseas for the U.S. State Department and served for many years as a public library administrator in Missouri, Oklahoma, Illinois, New Mexico and Texas. Carol also served as President of the American Library Association, advocating for the right to read around the world. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in library and information studies from the University of Illinois. She has also pursued Ph.D studies at the University of Texas - Austin, and is currently studying online at the Berean School of the Bible. Carol is a member of Harvest Church, which is planting a new church in Chaparral, NM.

Adilson was originally born in Brazil and brings his experience as a professional soccer player and more than 20 years working in and managing restaurants to help others achieve their goals in life. Now a proud U.S. citizen, he plans to open a Brazilian-themed restaurant soon and teach culinary skills. An avid Bible scholar, Adilson is also involved in the church planting in Chaparral, NM by Harvest Church.

Kathy is an expert educator, having served for more than 20 years as the Training Administrator for the Communications Services Bureau of the Illinois State Police. Her ability to plan and implement effective learning programs has been extremely useful as she heads up Waymaker Border Ministries’ Education Office - teaching English as a Second Language and planning for future courses here in the borderlands. Kathy holds a degree in Criminal Justice from Lincoln Land Community College, with additional studies at the University of Illinois - Springfield.

Martha Toscano is the Literacy Coordinator at the El Paso Public Library, dedicated to empowering the community through literacy and education. She holds a degree in Education from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and has a passion for lifelong learning. Martha oversees literacy programs that support adult learners, helping them develop essential reading, writing, and digital skills. She collaborates with local organizations to expand educational opportunities and ensure accessible resources for all. Her commitment to fostering a culture of learning has made a lasting impact on individuals striving for personal and professional growth in El Paso.

Norice has worked in border area libraries since the early 1980s. She has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from New Mexico State University and a master’s in Library and Information Science from the University of Texas at Austin. She has worked in leadership roles at New Mexico State University, El Paso Public Library, and more recently Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine in Las Cruces, NM. She retired from full-time work in 2023, and now enjoys working with students as a part-time librarian at El Paso Community College. Norice has been a tireless advocate for libraries and literacy, a leader in promoting lifelong learning who ensures that consumers receive the health information and education they need.

Armando Salais brings a diverse background in management to his current role at the El Paso Public Library, where he has been a dedicated team member since 2018. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in social work and currently pursuing his master’s in the field, Armando is deeply passionate about helping individuals achieve their goals. His commitment to empowering others and fostering personal and community growth drives his work, blending his practical experience with his academic expertise to make a meaningful impact.

Monique Paez has proudly served the City of Las Cruces for 12 years, currently as the Senior Office Manager for the Quality of Life Department. In her role, Monique combines organizational expertise with a deep passion for community enrichment, contributing to programs and initiatives that enhance the lives of residents across the city. Monique is a dedicated wife to her husband Noel; together they have raised three children and are proud grandparents to two grandchildren. Her guiding principles, “Love for all” and “Live unity,” reflect her unwavering belief in kindness, inclusivity, and the power of community.