Our Team

Kristal Bohse Gama (she/her/hers) is the Director of Student Success & Financial Aid at Claremont Graduate University. In this role, she serves as a leader for the Office of Student Engagement while also as a leader for the Office of Financial Aid. She serves on several campus wide committees and student initiatives. Prior to her 8 years at CGU, Kristal served for 12 years in various roles in the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at California State University, San Bernardino. Being a first generation college graduate, Kristal has dedicated her career to assisting students in removing barriers in attaining their educational goals. Kristal is a CGU Alumna, where she completed her M.A. in Education program with an emphasis in Higher Education/Student Affairs. Her research is focused on marginalized students whether it be first generation, low income, veteran, LGBTQIA+, undocumented, or students of color in a higher education setting. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her two children and any activities that will allow her to spread love and joy through her community.

Kristal also holds an Allies of Dreamers graduate certificate from Claremont Graduate University as well as a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, San Bernardino.

Amber Lee (she/her/hers) is the Associate Director of Student Engagement and Retention at Claremont Graduate University. She recently graduated from University of Redlands with her MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs. She is a first-generation college graduate who is passionate about creating transformational programming that empowers students to embrace authenticity and reach their educational goals. Amber also received her BA in Sociology and certification in Human Services from California State University, San Bernardino. In her free time, Amber enjoys spending time with her dog, Clark Griswold, her friends, and family. She enjoys drinking coffee, live concerts, reading, baking, and hiking.

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Therese Julia Uy (she/her/hers and they/them/theirs) is the Assistant Director of Student Engagement at Claremont Graduate University. Most recently, she was a graduate student researcher for Know Justice, Know Peace at CASA Pitzer. They have previously worked in student services, residential academic summer programs, and human resources. Therese Julia is passionate about literacy education and is committed to serving all students in community, connection, and with belonging. In her free time, she enjoys knitting, reading, and spending time with her dog, Flopsie.

Therese Julia holds a master’s degree in Community-Engaged Education and Social Change from Claremont Graduate University and a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Civic Engagement from UCLA.

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Nathaniel Owenby (he/him/his) is a Student Support Specialist at Claremont Graduate University. Before CGU, he held positions with the Boy Scouts of America, K-12 education, and student housing. Nathaniel is passionate about student success and helping students realize their goals using CGU campus resources. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games, performing as a tenor saxophonist in the Pomona College Band, and watching reality competition shows.

Nathaniel holds a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of La Verne.

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Mara Pearson is a Student Support Specialist at Claremont Graduate University. Before CGU, she held positions with the University of Arizona in Events and Student Services. Mara is passionate about helping students succeed. She enjoys doing escape rooms, playing games, and watching tv in her free time.

Mara holds bachelor’s degrees in Communication as well as Family Studies and Human Development from the University of Arizona.

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Jacqueline Barvarin-Robles (she/her/hers) is a Student Support Specialist at Claremont Graduate University. She recently graduated from University of California, Irvine where she earned a BA in Education Sciences and a BA in Social Policy and Public Service. As a first-generation college graduate, Jacqueline is passionate about improving students’ access to resources and serving students to help them succeed.

In her free time, she enjoys being active, spending time with friends, and trying new food spots.

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