Braden Boisvert comes to the Masters in Public Administration program with an educational background in economics, having earned his bachelor's degree from Oregon State University. Though his professional experiences have centered on athletics and working with youth, Braden has a passion for public service and hopes to pursue a career in sports administration or government after completing his MPA. As a student-athlete, Braden demonstrated leadership skills as the SAAC representative, helping lead change around name, image, and likeness (NIL) policies and other student athlete advocacy. Braden is excited to start the MPA program to expand his skillset and knowledge, setting himself up for future success in public administration. He hopes the program will provide him with diverse perspectives that blend his interests in economics, sports, and governance. Braden is eager to learn from faculty mentors and peers to prepare for a meaningful career in public service.
Samuel Knight is the Command Sergeant Major for 1st/211th Attack Battalion, a Utah Army National Guard Apache unit, based out of West Jordan. He is responsible for the Battalion’s discipline and morale, and is one half of the Command Team. During the work week he supervises a Blackhawk helicopter maintenance crew.
Sam has been in the Army for 26 years, and is looking forward to the next chapter after retirement. He believes that his time in the military has been an excellent choice and has helped prepare him for any challenge. He loves to train the soldiers and has most enjoyed being a mentor to those he has served with. Sam deployed multiple times to the Middle East.
Sam holds a bachelor’s degree in multi-disciplinary studies from University of Arkansas at Grantham. He is married and has five grown children.
Laura Gale recently earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with an emphasis
in Public Policy and Administration from Utah Valley University. At UVU, Laura was
actively involved in government and was a legislative intern for Representative Karianne
Lisonbee during the 2022 Utah Legislative Session.
Over the past year, Laura has been an investigator for the Equity & Title IX Office
at UVU. In this role, she works to gather evidence, research UVU policies, and assist
all who interact with the Title IX office. Laura also works closely with the Office
of General Counsel and other departments across UVU to advocate for students, faculty,
and staff affected in different situations.
Laura is pursuing an MPA degree because of her passion for public service and progress
in the community as a public servant. She is particularly interested in working in
public office and social justice. She is a hard worker, passionate about public service,
and committed to making a difference. Laura is also eager to learn more from her professors
and classmates and to discuss how she can contribute to the community with an MPA
degree.
Abby graduated from Lamar University with a Communication Public Relation degree and hopes to get a grasp on what goes on behind the scenes when it comes to administration because she plans to become a college soccer coach. With this, she hopes to be able to handle arising situations in a professional environment and operate in a professional manner with a MPA degree.
Jake Turville is an Event Manager for Utah Valley University Intramural Sports. His job entails managing sports events, enrolling participants, creating schedules, officiating disputes, hiring and training staff, and coordinating event setup. Jake believes that the federal, state, and local governments should do more for the people. Specifically, he wants all citizens to have access to quality healthcare and a college education without financial burden. Jake attended Utah Valley University and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science with an emphasis in Public Admin. & Public Policy and has an Associate of Applied Science in Digital Cinema Production.
Kim Andersen has worked in criminal justice for the past ten years, serving pretrial, probation, and reentry clients. Having worked in both client-facing and supervisory roles, she is aware of the direct impact our interactions have on people who are justice-involved, and how collaboration is key when striving toward improved outcomes.
Kim is dedicated to providing quality and effective services that not only positively impact individuals, but our community as well. She holds herself to high standards to exceed expectations and is driven by integrity. Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Utah.
Brian Taylor is a captain at the Provo Police Department where he leads the criminal investigative division. He provides training, policy guidance, administrative support and leadership to detectives and victim advocates. Brian has been a patrol officer, sex crimes investigator, patrol sergeant, detective sergeant and public information officer among other assignments.
Brian served in the United States Marine Corps. His combat journal was published in a five-part series by the Wall Street Journal’s online Opinion Journal. Brian resides in American Fork, Utah with his wife Sharlene. They have three adult children.
Brian Worsham Is a dedicated Correctional Officer at the Utah State Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City. He strives for excellence as he helps to rehabilitate offenders. Brian loves the challenge of an ever changing and difficult work environment. He is a great asset to the Correctional Facility as he quickly and efficiently handles stressful situations such as fights, riots, and escape attempts. Brian follows USCF's mission statement by being devoted to providing maximum opportunities for offenders to make lasting changes through accountability, treatment, education, and positive reinforcement within a safe environment. Everyday Brian proudly puts on a uniform with patches that say Honor, Accountability, and Integrity. He is a great example to inmates and other staff members as he carries out his duties holding tightly to those attributes.
Michelle Heleno is a full-time master's degree in public administration (MPA) student at UVU. She is determined, persistent, and resilient. Michelle, who was born in Equator and raised in Barcelona, Spain, relocated to the US to finish high school and eventually attended CUNY York College to obtain a bachelor's degree in social work. She is the first person in her family to graduate from college and is now pursuing her master's. Michelle is working remotely as a Program Assistant in the Housing Department at Queens Community House, a non-profit organization in Queens, New York. Traveling, spending time with her family and friends, and learning about other cultures are things Michelle enjoys.
My name is Naylet Morales. I am from Utah and have lived here most of my life. I am 22 years old and I enjoy anything outdoors, such as: hiking, camping, and paddle boarding. I am a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Alpha Phi Sigma Criminal Justice Honor Society, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. I am FEMA certified and have an Associate and Bachelor's degree in criminal justice.
GaryMcCloy received his undergraduate degree in Finance from the University of Utah. He is a Battalion Chief for Farmington Fire Department and a certified flight paramedic. He loves hanging out with his wife, kids and grandkids.”
Jared Nation is a Student Athlete on the UVU Track and Field team and has worked with people of varying backgrounds in order assist in the success of the throwing events. One of Jared's core beliefs that has brought him success is that you get out what you put in. This philosophy drives him to work hard in his studies, on the track and in his daily life. Jared’s passion for fitness and wellness lead him to employment as a personal trainer, where he was able to work with people of all fitness levels and backgrounds as well as varying states of health, in order to assist them in achieving their fitness goals. An alumnus of Paradise Valley Community College, Jared earned all American Honors in the Javelin at the NJCAA level, an achievement he hopes to repeat at the NCAA Division 1 level. Additionally, Jared has earned all WAC honors for the Javelin throw in his time at UVU. Jared currently holds a Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science and Outdoor Recreation from Utah Valley University.
Aloha! Nellie Kapetaua is from Hawaii and now resides in Utah with her husband. She currently works as a Senior Executive Assistant at Intermountain Healthcare. In this position she supports two senior level physicians. She is passionate about helping people and working together as a team to solve problems.
Nellie received her Bachelor’s in Health Administration from Weber State University. She is looking forward to additional opportunities to better help and serve those in her communities.
When she is not working, she spends lots of my time with family and enjoys lots of traveling and different cultures.
Ariele Perez works for the public sector as a caseworker in the Department of Health and Human Services for the state of Utah. Ariele has a passion for helping others and finding ways for individuals to overcome challenges. She believes in pursuing just and equitable opportunities for everyone to live safe and healthy lives. She has a background in non-profit and worked as an advocate for an organization that provides support and services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Ariele holds a bachelor’s degree in Applied Sociology with a minor in Social Justice from Utah Tech University.
Lee recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Emergency Services Administration with an emphasis in Disaster Management. Lee has completed an internship with the Intermountain Center for Disaster Preparedness. He retired after working twenty years for the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office in the Jail. He worked as both an officer and sergeant in the jail. For ten years Lee was in charge of preparing lesson plans and instructors for all CPR and First-aid classes at the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s office. Lee and his family are avid whitewater rafters. He has rafted from as far north as Iceland and as far south as Costa Rica, with many stops in between.
Nicholas Sims has been attending Utah Valley University since the fall of 2019. His first year of college was quite the experience, as COVID 19 hit later that spring. This affected both his schooling and athletic career. Currently, he is on the UVU baseball team and has been given another year of eligibility due to COVID. He graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice and this upcoming season will be his 5th year at Utah Valley University. His future plans are to join a federal investigative agency.
Steven Lehmitz is a City Planner, working for Eagle Mountain City. He enjoys the fast-paced work environment, trying to keep up with the breakneck growth Eagle Mountain is experiencing. He works with and advises many parties regarding land usage throughout the city. He completed and received his bachelor’s degree in Geography from Brigham Young University in December of 2019, with an emphasis in Environmental Studies. Steven decided to pursue an MPA in hopes of advancing and broadening his skill set and career opportunities. He hopes to continue working and serving in local government, where he feels he can help shape the growth and change that inevitably comes. His goal is to learn all he can to best lead those he will have the privilege of working with.
Brooke Plothow Nelson was born in Provo, Utah and is the oldest of seven children. She was raised in a loving home with two great parents who loved their children and provided them with many opportunities. She grew up playing sports, doing well in school, and learning musical instruments. Brooke graduated from Orem High School and went to Brigham Young University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science. She was able to be part of BYU’s student government and went to London on a study abroad. Brooke served an LDS Mission in Paris, France, and was given the Governor’s Award for Service for starting and implementing Bedtime Stories which is a program that still exists today where incarcerated parents read books to their children and a copy of the recording, and the book is sent to the child. She is the mother of four handsome boys who also enjoy playing sports and who do well in school. Brooke has lived all around the world including England, France, Ireland, and Australia. She was an expat for four years living abroad. Brooke co-founded and operated a successful IT business for five years. Currently, she works for the Utah County Attorney’s office, and is looking forward to getting her MPA at UVU.
Jordan Cornett completed a Bachelor's Degree in Emergency Services Administration with an Emphasis in Emergency Management & Disaster Assistance and a Minor in Criminal Justice. Now in the MPA program while completing a Graduate Certificate In Health Care Management.
Jordan works part-time in EMS and has his Fire Instructor and Apparatus Driver Operator. In the Utah Army National Guard, he is an Airborne Paratrooper & Parachute Rigger with the local Special Forces Group Support Battalion.
In his free time, he loves anything to do with the water. Annual white water rafting trips to Jackson Hole, WY, paddle boarding, and wake surfing. This fall you’ll catch him cruising on a motorcycle and stopping to pet any dog he can. He is very excited for the opportunity to learn with so many people who have years of experience in this Cohort.
Chase Stilson is a Captain in the Utah Army National Guard serving for over 12 years. He has served the community as a wildland firefighter with the Utah DNR and as a structure firefighter for the Utah National Guard. He currently serves as the Camp W.G. Williams Range Control Officer and is responsible for the overall safety of 5,000 Utah National Guard members that train on the installation. Chase attended Utah Valley University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Services Administration. He resides in Lindon, UT with his wife Steviee and their two children.
Amy Eddington
Ethan Brodsky is a full time student-athlete at Utah Valley University. Ethan competes on the baseball team, bringing his talents and accolades from the west coast to the valley in hopes of a successful final season.
Ethan’s passion for athletics in addition to the business world inspires him to be a positive influence to other collegiate athletes. Ethan hopes to start his own staffing agency to help connect student-athletes to potential employers.
Ethan holds a bachelor’s of science in Business Administration from California State University, East Bay.
Gabrielle is a dedicated professional who holds a degree in Outdoor Recreation Management from Utah Valley University. With a strong inclination towards non-profit and government work, Gabrielle has gained valuable experience in both sectors. Her past roles include working at Olympic National Park under the Department of the Interior and contributing to Springville City's recreation programs. Currently, as the Assistant Director of Donor Relations in Institutional Advancement at UVU, she plays a vital role in stewarding gifts from generous donors, ensuring that their contributions make a meaningful impact. Gabrielle's passion for giving back to her alma mater and helping students fulfill their educational aspirations drives her in her work.
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Lauren works in the Aviation Industry as a Certified Flight Instructor in Duluth, MN. She has been flying since 2016 when she enrolled in the Utah Valley University Aviation Global Program through her local flight school in Green Bay, WI. In 2019, she graduated from UVU with a Bachelor's of Science in Aviation Science with an emphasis in Professional Piloting. Her attention to detail and safety have allowed her the opportunities to run flight training programs in multiple states. She has also been able to gain industry experience working for the number one general aviation aircraft manufacturer.
Trenna Tataipu is currently working as a paraprofessional (second year) in the Provo
city school district. This profession has given her the knowledge and skills to improve
in such areas as critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and most of all,
patience. Before working as an elementary paraprofessional, Trenna was employed as
a team lead in the program and senior specialist position at the local recreation
center. Her favorite thing about this position was communicating and connecting with
the elderly that attended the center on a daily/weekly basis. Working with both elderly
people and elementary aged students has given her the opportunity to utilize emotional
intelligence and its elements in different aspects.
Before jumping back into the workforce, Trenna was a stay-at-home mom and homemaker
for a few years. She went back to school while both of her children were still in
diapers and expresses gratitude to having graduated from Brigham Young University-Idaho
(ONLN) with a bachelor’s degree of Applied Health. She is pursuing her master’s in
public administration to further her knowledge and attain the necessary skills of
public service.
Trenna enjoys challenging herself with personal inspired goals. She recently completed
the 2023 Utah Valley Marathon in June and Tour De Provo in January. Trenna is from
Hau’ula, Hawai’i and is of Hawaiian and Samoan descent. She and her husband moved
to Utah in 2013 and have been living in Provo since. Other hobbies Trenna enjoys are
hiking, swimming, paddleboarding, reading a good book, watching a good show or movie,
and playing pickleball.
I currently work for Utah County Public Works - I’ve also worked for City and State
offices as well. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Strategic Communications from the University
of Utah and actually started my college career in 2001 back at Salt Lake Community
College and received an Associates in General Studies. I feel that one should never
stop learning nor let life’s obstacles get in the way of educational goals.
Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my 8 nephews, reading, and going for
hikes and drives. I hope that I’ll be able to use my MPA to help further my career
prospects and to enhance my skill set within my current position
Scott Hatfield is from Ridgecrest, California. He served 6 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman with 2nd Battalion 7th Marines and did a tour in the Middle East, Embassy duty in Yemen, and finished his military career at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms. After the military Scott has worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Senate, Utah Department of Corrections in many capacities and ran for Utah's 2nd Congressional District for the United States House of Representatives. Currently, Scott works as a control point operator at the Utah Department of Corrections aiding correctional officers with the internal security of the prison. Scott holds a bachelor of science from UVU in Political Science. Scott in his off time enjoys backpacking, hiking, fishing, and spending time with his family.
Brighton Anderson grew up in Utah with parents who worked in public education. From 2015-2017 he spent time abroad as a volunteer missionary, and upon his return he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Reserve as a crew chief with the 419th Fighter Wing. While in the military he deployed around the globe and promoted to Staff Sergeant. He earned his B.S. in University Studies from UVU in 2021 and separated from the Air Force in 2024. During his free time Brighton likes to geek out to Star Wars, Halo, and Destiny, or be outside shooting or riding motorcycles.
Marinda "Mindy" Catterson is the Training Supervisor for Metro Emergency Communications in Provo City. With nearly 20 years of experience as an emergency communications dispatcher, Mindy oversees the training program for new hires and continuing education for current staff, ensuring high standards of service for the Provo, Orem, and Lindon communities. Her career highlights include participating in the Provo Police Department Hostage Negotiations team, contributing to Quality Assurance, and helping build the training program. Mindy holds a Bachelor's degree in Emergency Services Administration from UVU and aspires to manage a communications center in the future. She is deeply passionate about training and helping others succeed in the emergency services field.
Cade earned his undergraduate degree in Emergency Services from UVU, specializing in Emergency Leadership and Emergency Care. He serves as a full-time firefighter paramedic with Sandy City Fire, with a particular focus on hazmat operations. Through the MPA program, he aims to advance EMS by conducting research and promoting evidence-based policies. In his free time, Cade is an avid ultra-trail runner, often summiting peaks and exploring trails. He and his wife also share a passion for rock climbing and enjoy venturing to national parks for their adventures.
Lauren earned her bachelor's degree in Behavioral Science with a minor in Communications from Utah Valley University. She has gained valuable experience working for various nonprofits and currently serves as a Program Coordinator at the University of Utah. Lauren is pursuing a master’s in Public Administration, aspiring to become a Policy Analyst. Her passion lies in developing sustainable and impactful programs and policies. In her free time, Lauren enjoys writing, traveling, spending time with her therapy dog, and being with family and friends.
Anneliese Langs currently serves as a police officer with The Orem Police Department. In her time there she has served as the Mental Health Detective, patrol officer, and is currently the Peer Support Coordinator. Anneliese desires to grow through this program to build leadership skills as well as create internal change. Anneliese is also a wife to an amazing husband and mom to a rambunctious 1 year old.
Carter Krosky is a third-year student at Utah Valley University and a member of the university’s baseball program. He holds a BA in Strategic Communications and Public Relations Strategies. Through the MPA program, Carter aims to deepen his focus on creating athletic opportunities for lower-income families, ensuring that children can pursue their sports dreams just as he has.
Emilie Minshew is a dedicated humanitarian committed to empowering under-resourced communities. She graduated magna cum laude from the Utah Valley University Honors Program in 2021, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy with double minors in Peace and Justice Studies and Criminal Justice. During her undergraduate studies, she interned with the Utah Cold Case Coalition and the Utah League of Cities and Towns. Since graduating, Emilie has worked extensively in the nonprofit sector, serving as a case manager for refugees, survivors of sex trafficking, and adults with disabilities. She is currently an advisor in Accessibility and Disability Services at Salt Lake Community College, where she also supports students in the SLCC chapter of the Utah Department of Corrections Prison Education Program. Emilie is excited to broaden her expertise in public administration through UVU's MPA program.
Jackson Gedge is an Information Center Agent for South Jordan City. He graduated summa cum laude from Utah Valley University in August 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Jackson is pursuing an MPA to further his education, expand his career opportunities, and enhance his ability to serve communities effectively..
Sarah Berry recently graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies, specializing in Human Development. Her academic journey, focused on understanding how societal dynamics influence the family unit, sparked a deep interest in public policy and administration.
With a strong foundation in Family Studies, Sarah gained valuable experience as a Student and Family Advocate for the Provo City School District. This role strengthened her commitment to pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration, equipping her with the skills to address challenges and drive meaningful change in communities. Sarah is deeply passionate about advocating for underserved populations and ensuring every individual feels valued and heard.
Corrienia (Nia) grew up in Provo, Utah, and is a proud Tongan-American and first-generation college graduate. She is married with two children and recently earned her bachelor's degree in Emergency Services from Utah Valley University.
With over 17 years of experience as a 911 dispatcher, Nia has served with the Utah County Sheriff's Office, Pleasant Grove Police Department, Provo Police Department, and currently, Brigham Young University's Police Department. Her dedication to public safety and her passion for serving the community are evident in her unwavering commitment to assisting the public during emergencies. Nia's years of service reflect her deep devotion to making her community safer and stronger.
Tara is the Lead Foster-Adoptive Consultant at Utah Foster Care (UFC), where she has dedicated the past nine years to recruiting and supporting foster parents across Salt Lake and Tooele counties. Her career in child welfare began 20 years ago with the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) after earning a degree in psychology from the University of Utah. During her time at DCFS, Tara gained extensive experience in child protective services, permanency and long-term casework, and foster parent support. It was through these roles that she developed a deep admiration for foster parents—a passion that ultimately inspired her and her husband to become foster parents themselves.
Tara also serves as the secretary of the Utah Adoption Council, where she works to support ethical adoption practices by collaborating with agencies, attorneys, adoptive parents, adoptees, and birth parents throughout the state.
In her free time, Tara enjoys reading, traveling, and visiting the beaches of her home state of California. She also loves watching Star Wars and superhero films with her 11-year-old son. Tara lives in West Jordan, Utah, with her husband of 17 years, their son, and their two dogs.
Erik Nystul holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Relations and Strategic Communications, along with a Certificate in National Security Studies. He serves as the Director of the Government Internship Program at the Gary R. Herbert Institute at Utah Valley University (UVU). Erik’s professional experience spans work with the Utah Legislature, managing internship programs at the federal and state levels, and collaborating with foreign consulates. He has also played a pivotal role in securing scholarships for students facing barriers to public service, ensuring greater access to these transformative opportunities.
Erik's decision to pursue a Master’s program is driven by his dedication to serving both Utah and the United States, as well as his passion for equipping young professionals with the tools for successful careers. His academic interests focus on National Security, military affairs, and government relations. Erik is especially passionate about fostering civic engagement and critical thinking among emerging leaders, helping to shape a future generation of informed and engaged citizens.
Joe Ramos is a former M1A1 Armor Crewman in the U.S. Army and currently serves as the Business and Operations Manager for the Salt Lake City Parks Division. In a previous role, he was a key member of the Salt Lake City HEART Team, where he coordinated and directed resources to support the city’s unsheltered population.
Joe earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Columbia University in the City of New York, with a focus on domestic policymaking. Outside of work, he enjoys road trips, live theater, and spending time with animals of all kinds. Joe shares his home with three rescue dogs, a kitten, and a 15-foot python, reflecting his deep love for animals.
Tim Shaw has served on the Orange County Board of Education since 2020. Tim previously served on the La Habra City Council and was Mayor twice.
Tim has worked for several elected officials, including Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. He currently works for the local Realtor association and as an adjunct professor of Political Science. Shaw's education includes a B.S. in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois University and an M.A. in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University.
Tim served a Spanish-speaking mission for his church in Chicago. Tim is married to Shannon Shaw, and they are the parents of 6 sons.
OranStainbrook is an artist, designer, builder, actor and owner of the historic Old Company Store in Kenilworth Utah. Oran has spent the past several years renovating and reinventing 'the Store' to become a live-work space for artists and community center for the town. In addition to a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Portland State University, Oran studied City Planning and Urban Design at UC Berkeley. He currently serves on Carbon County's Planning Commission and its Economic Development Advisory Board. He's an avid gardener, adventurous hiker, and a terrible cook.
Zeead Swaidan is a U.S. Army combat veteran who served with the 101st Airborne, Air Assault Division. He is currently a Firefighter and Driver Operator with Springville Fire and Rescue. Zeead earned a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement from Utah Valley University (UVU).
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Zeead is fluent in several Arabic dialects, including Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), Levantine, Jordanian, and Gulf dialects.
He is honored to have been accepted into the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at UVU. He looks forward to gaining knowledge, improving himself, and preparing for future career opportunities.
ChristianaWagstaff is a dedicated public service professional with a distinguished career in victim advocacy and social justice. She currently serves as the Director of Victim Services at the Utah County Sheriff's Office, where she leads efforts to support and empower victims of crime.
Christiana holds a B.A. in Sociology from Evergreen State College and is a certified Advanced Comprehensive Victim Intervention Specialist through the National Advocate Credentialing Program. Her professional journey spans over 21,000 hours of dedicated service as a Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocate, with key roles at the Housing Authority of Salt Lake City, Utah Valley University Campus Police Department, and several nonprofit organizations.
In her role, Christiana has developed and presented numerous training programs and publications, including "Trauma Informed Investigations" and "Domestic and Sexual Violence 101." Her co-authored work on domestic violence among Utah women has contributed valuable insights to the field.
Christiana is also actively involved in several professional committees and organizations, including the Utah County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, Utah's Victim Services Commission, and the Utah Domestic Violence Fatality Review. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development is reflected in her extensive training and active participation in initiatives aimed at promoting safety, justice, and community well-being.
Christiana's expertise, dedication, and leadership in public service make her a highly respected figure in the field of victim advocacy. She is passionate about advancing policies and programs that protect and support vulnerable populations.
After earning a degree in Political Science from BYU, Jameson Welch now serves as a police officer in Casper, Wyoming. Alongside his role in law enforcement, he is a commissioned officer with the Wyoming Army National Guard. His unit, a HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) field artillery team, is set to deploy overseas to the U.S. Central Command region for approximately a year starting this fall.
Jameson is also continuing his education in the MPA program at UVU, adding to his academic journey that includes time at USU and BYU. Despite a nine-hour time difference, he is determined to stay on top of his coursework during his deployment.
In his free time, Jameson enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife, Erika, and their one-year-old puppy, Hayden, who loves walks and trips to the park.
As a first-generation American, Perla Lacayo brings a unique perspective to public service, shaped by military service, law enforcement roles, and prison reform advocacy. Seven years in the U.S. Army honed Perla's leadership skills and commitment to serving others. This foundation led to a degree in Criminal Justice and a role with the Department of Corrections as a Program Specialist.
In this capacity, Perla supports reentry programs like Makin’ it Work, helping prisoners articulate their goals, prepare for employment, and navigate the challenges of reintegration. These experiences as a correctional officer and program coordinator deepened Perla’s dedication to reforming correctional systems and advancing public service.
Perla has seen firsthand the need for effective policies and strong leadership to drive change. This realization inspired her pursuit of a Master of Public Administration (MPA) to enhance her ability to influence meaningful policy reforms. Known for a warm, empathetic leadership style, Perla focuses on governance, public policy, and leadership.
After completing the MPA, Perla plans to advance justice reforms that improve the equity and efficiency of correctional systems, ultimately becoming a leader who shapes impactful public policies for lasting societal benefit.
Clint Sanderson is a dedicated professional with a B.S. in Criminal Justice specializing in Law Enforcement from UVSC. He currently serves as a Surplus Auction Tech for Alpine School District. A native of Pleasant Grove, Clint is pursuing an MPA with aspirations of stepping into roles such as city management, where his forward-thinking approach and adaptability can thrive. His achievements include two prestigious awards from the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office for creating impactful programs and policies. Outside of work, Clint finds joy in riding his motorcycle, spending time with his children, and honing his skills in communication and conflict resolution.
Tiana Vakaafi Wynn was born in American Samoa but grew up in Orem, Utah. She recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from UVU and is now applying her skills and knowledge at Project Overwatch, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting first responders and veterans. Her role there has deepened her understanding of the unique challenges faced by these crucial groups and reinforced her commitment to public service. As she looks ahead, Tiana is set on pursuing a career in public service. She has a desire to continue to create more positive impacts on the community and improve systems.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Tiana cherishes her time with family, whose support and encouragement have been a cornerstone of her success. She is especially grateful for her husband, Keaton Wynn for the support he’s given for the past 7 years. Tiana is excited to embark on this new chapter of her academic and professional journey, confident in the knowledge that her family’s support will continue to inspire and motivate her.
Allie Warner grew up in Orem, Utah, and after graduating from BYU Provo in April 2024 with a degree in Family Studies from the School of Family Life, she is excited to continue her graduate studies at UVU. A dedicated athlete, Allie competed collegiately for BYU in cross country, indoor track, and track, and will compete for UVU in her final year of eligibility. Allie believes the best way to help the world is to help the family unit. With passions for sports, education, and family, Allie aspires to pursue a career in non-profit work. She hopes to become an adaptable and inspiring leader, making a meaningful impact wherever her journey takes her.
Addison Miller graduated from Brigham Young University with a BA in Russian and a minor in International Strategy and Diplomacy. Following his undergraduate studies, he worked as an Adult Intensive Probation Officer in Navajo County, Arizona. He is currently taking a break from full-time work to focus on his graduate studies. Upon completing his MPA program at UVU, Addison plans to continue a career in law enforcement. He enjoys keeping up on current events, reading and spending time with his family and friends outdoors.
Amaya recently graduated from Utah Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in communications. She works in government relations for the political nonprofit Sutherland Institute in Salt Lake City, with experience in state legislative relations and public communications. During the 2022 General Legislative Session, she interned with Representative Brad Last, assisting with the 2023 Utah state budget and constituent outreach.
Amaya is eager to further her education in UVU’s MPA program. She lives in American Fork with her husband and their dog, Indi.
AngelieTejada is a motivated business management graduate from Utah Valley University. She is currently pursuing her Master of Public Administration (MPA) to further develop her leadership skills. As an Administrative Assistant at UVU, Angelie supports the Public Health Department Chair by managing scheduling, budget monitoring, and academic coordination. Committed to creating an inclusive environment, she fosters collaboration within her team. Proudly the first in her family to graduate from college, Angelie aims to become a program director and develop impactful programs that support student success and well-being.
Jackson Roberts, a Utah native, has lived in eight different cities within Utah Valley and is the youngest of five siblings.
He serves as a soldier in the Utah National Guard and works full-time in the G8 Financial Services office as a financial analyst. Recently, Jackson earned a bachelor’s degree in National Security Studies from UVU and is excited to further his education through the MPA program.
