Leadership Team

Yesenia Alvarez-Gonzalez is the Chief Program Officer at AVANCE – San Antonio. Having been with AVANCE for 20 years, her experience includes teaching parenting classes, training on program leadership, supervision and management, referral and resource advocacy, and conflict resolution. She began her career as a Parent Educator in AVANCE’s Parent-Child…

Debra Randolph, a graduate of Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas is a seasoned professional with a passion for business and human resource management. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in the field, Debra has established herself as a trusted human resource professional. Her journey in the realm of…

Pricilla Ponce Henderson has proudly been with AVANCE for over 20 years . Her journey began as a Child Development Teacher and then progressed to Center Director, Manager of Center-Based Services, and Assistant EHS Director. Currently, she serves as the Head Start and Early Head Start Director. Pricilla feels blessed…

With over a decade of experience in nonprofit development and program management Alicia has spearheaded numerous community initiatives aimed at supporting youth development, mentorship, and life/career readiness. Throughout her career, she has led and served in various capacities, working tirelessly to create pathways to success for our future leaders. Alicia…

Sylvia De La Pena is the Director of Monitoring & Compliance for AVANCE-San Antonio, in partnership with Harlandale Independent School District. Sylvia has been with AVANCE for 18 years, holding various administrative positions. She whole-heartily believes in the mission and power of AVANCE to make positive changes in the lives…

Jose Salinas is the Wintergarden Zone Director for the AVANCE Wintergarden Program. Jose has been working with Head Start for 28 years in the areas of Family Engagement, Fatherhood, as a National Reviewer for Head Start Programs, and currently as the Zone Director. Jose is a strong supporter of the…

Erika M. Crespo, Director of Adult Education at AVANCE San Antonio, has been working with AVANCE since 2006 in the Parent-Child Education Program. She has held several different positions in the organization, including child development teacher, home educator, parent educator, and center director. Erika was born in Austin, Texas, and…