Meet the Team | Administrative & Management

Ms. Hogan oversees the NFJP and Youth development programs, HEP Education Programs, Human Services programs, AmeriCorps, NFJP Housing, Community Prevention Coalition Program, the Polaris Project, private Match grants, and sits on numerous Regional and National Boards. She has an undergraduate degree in Business with a concentration in Business Administration and graduated with Honors, and is a part of the Delta Mu Delta Honors Society. Ms. Hogan has been with PPEP for 36 years and has dedicated her career to serving others in numerous capacities within the communities in which her programs serve across the state of Arizona. She is an advocate for farmworkers across the country and serves as an advocate on the national level to help increase congressional knowledge of how NFJP programs positively impact the lives of farmworkers across this country and why continued funding is so critical. She is a force within the communities we serve in the development of comprehensive partnerships and program advocacy to ensure the people we serve have options and opportunities that garner positive results and provide successful outcomes for lasting results and a return on investment. 

Ms. Adams was raised in Michigan and moved to Arizona later in her life. She attended and graduated from PPEP TEC Post-secondary school and then began working for PPEP in 1991. Ms. Adams has held various positions with the company but has been working with the NFJP program for over 20 years of her career overseeing the development of comprehensive data programs, providing high level reporting and program compliance. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her position and oversees numerous data systems, program compliance for multiple grant programs, and extensive experience in DOL rules and regulations and program policy development. 

Ms. Johnson began working with the NFJP program at the end of the 2023 program year. She has an undergraduate degree in Business with a concentration in Business Marketing and Development. Ms. Johnson brings with her a strong background in business management and operations, project management and strategic marketing implementation. Recently, she worked with Small Miracles, LLC as the Regional Director overseeing 12 childcare facilities and staffing, supporting children and families. Her role was to ensure continued education for staff and management, program compliance, strategic planning for revenue building, operational expense oversight, weekly and monthly facility audits, state compliance with DES, program marketing, accreditation compliance and relationship building between families and staff.  She brings with her extensive technical skills in software applications, B2B marketing, networking, and operational development.

   Christine was born and raised in Arizona.  She is Native American from the Navajo Reservation in northern Arizona.  She joined PPEP, Inc. in 2020 working in the Human Services department as the Human Services Grants Compliance Manager.  She then moved over as a Regional Coordinator overseeing Pinal, Pima, Cochise, and Santa Cruz Counties with the NFJP Program.  She has an undergraduate degree in Business and American Indian Studies from ASU and earned her MBA from the University of Phoenix.  Christine conveys detail orientation, job dedication and perseverance to achieve her goals. Outside of work, Christine enjoys making jewelry and traveling to art shows with her artistic family. Christine also volunteers by serving on the Amphi School District Native American Parent Committee for the last 19 years.  She conducts fundraising events and currently services as the secretary/treasurer.  Christine has become more compassionate since working with PPEP, Inc. and aims at serving people to advance their skills, education, and careers.   

My name is Soraya Ayala, a dedicated Regional Coordinator and mother of three wonderful children. I am passionate about helping people and actively supporting my community, particularly in identifying solutions for individuals and families in need. My role allows me to leverage my experience in management, business operations, outreach, community service, and case management to create meaningful, positive impacts for those around me.

With a background in management, I have a strong foundation in organizational efficiency, strategic planning, and team leadership, enabling me to guide and support both colleagues and clients effectively. My experience in outreach has helped me build valuable relationships and connections within the community, empowering people by providing them with essential resources and options that cater to their unique situations. As a Regional Coordinator, I focus on optimizing service delivery, advocating for my community's needs, and ensuring that resources are accessible to those facing challenges.

Living in such a culturally vibrant, close-knit community inspires me daily. I am grateful to work in an environment that aligns with my passion for service, allowing me to utilize my experience to support those who need it most. Knowing that my work contributes to the well-being of others brings me immense fulfillment and purpose.

Ms. Mendez is an Illinois native. Early in her career, she worked with organizations like the Child Abuse Council, Project Now Head Start, and Community Action Agencies. In 2000, she joined the Illinois Migrant Council, where she discovered her passion for serving farmworker communities with the National Farmworker Jobs Program, WIA 167. She established coalitions to provide food, shelter, and advocate for human rights, connecting deeply with this population due to her own childhood memories living and working on a farm.

In 2009, Ms. Mendez attended an Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs (AFOP) conference in Carefree, Arizona, where she was very inspired by CEO Dr. John Arnold and the mission of PPEP Inc. She expressed her desire to work there one day. Since then, she has been actively involved in building coalitions with community partners and outreaching across several counties in Arizona, focusing on housing, health services, and migrant education. Words can’t express the joy she feels of how we all make a difference in these family’s lives.

Ms. Franco serves as the Workforce Development Specialist in Cochise County.  She joined the PPEP NFJP team in September 2024 and is based out of Willcox, AZ. Ms. Franco is a mother of two children and comes to us with background work in the court system and being a stay-at-home mother. Ms. Franco learned about PPEP several years ago when he husband was enrolled in the program, went through CDL training, received his certificates, became a truck driver in the agricultural fields before starting his own successful business. She is passionate about learning and growing with PPEP, Inc. and connecting with the very people who her husband worked with, that have similar dreams and aspirations. Outside of work, you can find her traveling and spending family time. 

Ms. Samano,Ms. Samano was born and raised in a small town by the name of Delano, California. An interesting fact about her hometown is, Cesar Chavez moved to Delano, in April 1962 with his family. The Chavez family rented a two-bedroom house on Kensington Street, which also served as the first office of the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA). Chavez organized the successful Delano Grape Strike from 1965–1970. The strike brought together Filipino and Mexican farmworkers and was a pivotal moment in California's history. Cesar Chavez also held his headquarters in Delano, Ca.

Ms. Samano moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 2003 and enjoyed the city life, minus the traffic! Her experience started in Human Resources working for the Department of Economic Security with the State of Arizona, then had the opportunity to work for Goodwill as a Senior Career Advisor under Workforce Development. While at Goodwill, she was able to work in various organizations such as, The Fresh Start Womans Center, Maricopa Skill Center and facilitated workshops such as Job Readiness, Resume Writing and Basic computer skills. Then Goodwill was granted a contract with the City of Phoenix - Arizona@Work to coordinator the welcome Centers at the One Stop locations. This experience has led her to join PPEP in October 2024 as the Workforce Development Specialist. Her enthusiasm, experience, and drive has motivated her passion in serving not only the community but the farmworker demographic.  

Ms. Rosas is a champion for change. Just joining the PPEP NFJP program in August of 2024 as a Workforce Development Specialist, she has dedicated herself to helping clients tackle their challenges head-on.

Things she feels makes her stand out as a case manager is that she utilizes the client-centered approach, she empowers through planning and is a passionate advocate to those in need. Ms. Rosas enjoys providing tailored support and guidance to all her clients. Her goals revolve around fostering successful outcomes for everyone she works with and ensure she assists her clients with smooth transition into their new endeavors. Ms. Rosas goal is to ensure her clients are not only sustainable in life but that they obtain their goals to reach their dreams.

Mr. Negrin grew up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the son of Cuban immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the late 1960s with dreams of building a better future for their family. Their determination shaped Rey’s values of hard work and perseverance.

With a background in customer service and the utilities industry, Mr. Negrin eventually made his way to Southern Arizona, where his focus shifted to community work.

Now, as a Workforce Development Specialist for PPEP and the National Farmworker Jobs Program, he helps connect individuals to vital resources and opportunities for assistance.

He serves Santa Cruz and Pima Counties, operating in Nogales, Arizona.

 Mr. Cruz is a Workforce Development Specialist with a professional background in communication, advertising, photography, health, and nutrition. His diverse expertise allows him to advocate for his participants effectively, addressing both their immediate needs and supporting their long-term well-being. He is passionate about helping others thrive through a creative and holistic approach. Outside of work, Mr. Cruz enjoys traveling and music, which inspire him and bring fresh perspectives to his work. He is dedicated to making a positive impact and helping people lead more fulfilling lives 

 Mr. Gonzelez is committed to empowering individuals by helping them acquire the skills, education, and resources they need to enhance their quality of life and achieve self-sufficiency. Originally from San Diego, CA, Mr. Gonzalez transitioned he work as a DCS caseworker to the PPEP NFJP program in February 2024. As a Workforce Development Specialist, he works closely with participants, providing guidance and support to help them navigate training programs and career development opportunities. His goal is to ensure that each individual he assists has the tools necessary to secure stable employment and reach their full potential. His dedication stems from his passion for making a positive impact on the lives of those in underserved communities.  He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and served in the United States Navy for 12 years, making him a proud veteran.  

Ms. Elias and her journey from Mexico to Yuma County is one of perseverance. As an adult with two teenagers, little formal education (6th grade), and no English, she migrated to Yuma County and faced many obstacles. However, she found strength in Yuma’s community, particularly its agricultural fields, where she worked alongside dedicated individuals just as she did in Mexico, starting at age eight. Ms. Elias overcame barriers and changed career direction dedicating herself to advancing her education. Her connection to this land and its people runs deep. She is passionate about empowering others to overcome challenges. Her experiences have fueled a lifelong commitment to helping others build a brighter future.

Ms. Elias' purpose is to connect with people by listening to their life stories, sharing her own, and encouraging them to strive for career advancement, no matter the obstacles. Watching others achieve their goals and build better lives inspires her daily.

In her role with the NFJP PPEP program, she has the honor of supporting agricultural workers in accessing vital training and career resources. This program is a bridge to brighter futures, offering hard-working individuals the guidance and skills they need to secure stability and success.  Knowing that she can contribute to their journey drives her passion for this work. Every story of progress and achievement affirms her commitment to empowering these workers, strengthening not only their lives but also the heart of our community.

With over 15 years of experience in case management, Ms. Ochoa brings a deep understanding of social services and a passion for helping others improve their lives. Coming from a family rooted in agriculture, she was raised with strong values of education and hard work. This foundation enabled her to pursue her education in Social Services and Education, with the unwavering support of her family. Ms. Ochoa's professional background has allowed her to develop a keen awareness of the needs of those seeking better opportunities and the tools to empower them toward personal growth and self-sufficiency.

As a mother of two and part of a military family, she balances her commitments to her career with her dedication to family life, knowing firsthand the importance of resilience and adaptability. The lessons learned from her upbringing, coupled with her experiences in case management, have shaped her belief that it’s never too late to learn something new or to make significant changes in life.

Ms. Ochoa is driven by the idea that everyone deserves the chance to achieve something better for themselves, and she is committed to guiding them on that journey with compassion and expertise.

Ms. Sosa has spent the majority of her life in Yuma County, where she has developed a deep connection to the community and its agricultural heritage. Passionate about staying active, she enjoys playing various sports. Ms. Sosa considers herself to be very social and finds great fulfillment in engaging with people, particularly in listening to their life stories. She is fascinated by where people come from, what journeys they’ve taken, and what aspirations they hold for the future.

Living in an agricultural region, she has developed a deep appreciation for the hard work that goes into cultivating the land. Ms. Sosa acknowledges the beauty of the fields and the tireless dedication of the workers who sustain the area's agricultural productivity.

Ms. Sosa is thrilled to be part of the NFJP PPEP program, as it gives her the opportunity to connect with agricultural workers and contribute to their personal and professional growth. It’s incredibly rewarding to support individuals who work tirelessly in the fields, helping them access valuable job and training opportunities that can improve not only their lives but also the lives of their families. Through this program, she feels privileged to play a role in empowering these hardworking individuals, offering them the resources and guidance they need to build a brighter and more secure future. Helping them achieve stability and success is something that drives her passion for this work, as she sees firsthand the positive impact it can have on their well-being and the community as a whole.