CLC Support Team
Supporting tutoring programs and peer educators, the CLC team works to create an inclusive environment where students can thrive academically.
Working Together for Student Success
Behind every tutoring session, workshop and study space is a dedicated team committed to student success. The Cooperative Learning Center staff guide the department’s programs, support peer educators and ensure students have access to high-quality academic support. From coordinating services to strengthening campus partnerships, this team works every day to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where all students can grow, build confidence and achieve their goals.
Coordinators
Malachi Alexander
Math and Statistics Coordinator
Malachi joined the CLC in fall 2023 and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in mathematics at UC Santa Cruz. As an undergraduate at Cal State Monterey Bay, he worked as a CLC mathematics tutor — an experience that sparked his passion for supporting students at every stage of their academic journey.
In his role, Malachi strengthens math and statistics support by mentoring tutors and advancing evidence-based learning strategies. He values the opportunity to impact students both directly and through the peer educators he supports. Outside the CLC, he enjoys music and exploring new ideas.
Micaela Colmenarez
Supplemental Instruction Coordinator
Micaela (Mica) is a Cal State Monterey Bay alumna with a degree in molecular biology. Since August 2024, she has served as a Supplemental Instruction (SI) coordinator, supporting SI leaders in biology, chemistry, statistics and math courses.
Before returning to CSUMB, Mica conducted research in genetics and human health, including CRISPR-Cas9 and RNAi research in C. elegans, Alzheimer’s disease studies and evolutionary genomics in fish. She is passionate about mentoring tutors and supporting their professional growth — whether they pursue careers in academia, industry or government. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, 3D printing and crafting.
Javier Fernandez Agüera
Language and Peer Coaching Coordinator
Originally from Spain, Javier (Javi) brings international teaching experience to the CLC, having lived in Germany and several U.S. states before settling in the Monterey Bay region. Prior to joining CSUMB, he taught Spanish at UC Santa Cruz, where he received the Excellence in Teaching Award for his inclusive, real-world approach to language instruction.
His research interests include gender and language, second-language acquisition and translation studies. At the CLC, Javi supports language learners and peer coaches while fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning community. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, collecting plants and cooking gluten-free meals.
Lesley Stampleman
Writing Coordinator
Lesley began working at the CLC in 2012 as a professional writing tutor and English language learning specialist. She also teaches professional writing courses in the Collaborative Health and Human Services department.
She holds an MFA in English, and her scholarly interests include creative writing, academic writing and teaching English as a second or additional language. Lesley’s favorite part of the CLC is watching tutors and students grow together in community. She values education that promotes challenge, literacy and equitable learning. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading and attending live music events.
Erin Stanfield
Supplemental Instruction Coordinator
Erin has coordinated the CLC Supplemental Instruction program since 2017. She is an alumna of CSUMB’s Environmental Science, M.S. program and has taught STEM courses in the College of Science since 2013.
Her research focuses on improving equitable teaching practices in STEM higher education, with publications in “CBE — Life Sciences Education” and “Breakthroughs in College Reading.” In 2024, she was selected as the Davis, Froshman and Shockley Faculty Fellow in recognition of her leadership in teaching and research.
Erin is dedicated to helping students build curiosity, confidence and strong problem-solving skills while supporting inclusive learning in STEM fields.
Administrative Staff
Mónica Soto
CLC Analyst
Mónica is a Cal State Monterey Bay alumna in Collaborative Health and Human Services and holds an M.A. in education from San José State University. She has worked at the CLC for more than 20 years in a variety of roles, bringing deep institutional knowledge and commitment to student success.
Her favorite part of the CLC is watching students, particularly peer tutors, grow professionally and personally. She especially enjoys reconnecting with former tutors after they graduate. Outside of work, she spends time with her family and two teenage sons.
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Karen Uribe
Tutorial Support Coordinator
Karen is a first-generation Cal State Monterey Bay graduate with a degree in kinesiology. She began her journey at the CLC as a front desk student assistant and now serves as the Tutorial Support Coordinator.
Karen manages daily operations, supports event planning, creates publicity materials and serves as a key point of connection among students, faculty and staff. She thrives in the dynamic environment of the tutoring center and enjoys building relationships with students. Outside the CLC, she enjoys spending time with her two children.
Director
Dr. Elise Dixon
Director of Tutoring Services
Since July 2024, Dr. Elise Dixon has served as Director of the Cooperative Learning Center, leading efforts to expand inclusive and equitable tutoring support across campus.
Previously, she was an assistant professor of English and writing center director at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. She earned her Ph.D. in writing and rhetoric from Michigan State University. Her research focuses on activist-oriented learning spaces and inclusive writing center practices. Her scholarship has appeared in “The Peer Review Journal,” “Writing Lab Newsletter” and “The Journal for Veterans Studies.”
Outside of work, she enjoys exploring local parks with her two sons, shopping at Trader Joe’s and bullet journaling.