GEAR UP TEAM
Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs
Executive Director
Lisa Carr
Lisa's educational background is in Early Childhood Development and Accounting. Working as the office manager for 16+ years and now as the Executive Director has helped her develop a unique skillset that is one of the most important assets of the San Juan Foundation. Additionally, she has nurtured educational development in others as a volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America, Parent Teacher Association, and the Blanding Rotary Club. She has been a supervisor and recruiter of volunteers for the AmeriCorps VISTA and Foster Grandparent programs. Each of these volunteer experiences has provided unique training and valuable networking opportunities throughout San Juan County.
Chief Financial Officer
Katie Turk
I was born and raised in San Juan County. My husband and I also raised our 5 children in this area. I have lived and worked all over the United States, as my husband was employed by the National Park Service and transferred 3 times in 10 years. We spent time in Texas, New Mexico, and Upstate New York. In 2018, we moved to North Carolina and then chose to "come home" to the Four Corners Area in 2021. I have worked in all different aspects of accounting during her 30+ year career. My late husband and I have 5 children and 16 grandchildren. Many of these live in the Blanding area. I love working with Gear Up and those, who have a passion for making a difference in children's lives.
GEAR UP Coordinator
Autumn Benally
I grew up in Blanding, I enjoy the rural landscape, hiking, camping, fishing, and being outdoors with my family. I think the best things in life are the little moments you can cherish forever. Being able to love what I do is also a great life experience. I finished my Bachelor of Integrated Studies and focused on Psychology. Helping students succeed in their educational goals is such a huge commitment. You have to encourage and motivate them in their educational pathways. The connections you have with students and watching them grow into a person they want to become is always the greatest feeling. I joined GEAR UP because being able to be that person a student looks up to is enlightening. I want them to know there is so much out there and so many opportunities to be offered. I am pleased to work with GEAR UP.
Data Specialist
Sara Hall
I was born in Murray, UT, and moved to Blanding when I was 4, and have grown up here ever since. My favorite types of people to be around are those who are funny and positive. I also love Italian food. The most important thing I learned before high school was to not give up on my dreams.The best piece of advice I've ever been given to just be myself. I have worked for San Juan Foundation and GEAR UP for over 7 years. I am in charge of entering student transcripts and attendance and most of the paperwork from the GEAR UP advisors. The most inspiring part of my job is meeting all kinds of new people and learning something new on a daily basis. I am grateful to be a part of wonderful program that helps the community!
Whitehorse High School-Advisor
Dawn Weston
I grew up in a small town, Aneth Utah. I worked in a local community clinic before working with Gear Up. I've always loved helping people and working beyond my job title has allowed me to grow and don't ever stop learning new things. The best piece of advice I've ever been given is "Tough times don't break you, They make you". The most inspiring part of my job is watching a student accomplish goals that they thought weren't possible. I have worked for San Juan Foundation for two years as an Afterschool Tutor, Substitute, and now a Gear up Advisor.
San Juan High School-Advisor
Marta Curran
Known in Blanding as Dr. Paul Macdonald's sister. HaHa.
My parents were school teachers and now I am helping students at the high school. I worked as the executive director for United Cerebral Palsy of Utah for 22 years: families, children, adults, independent living and integrated education.
I have 2 degrees and enjoy learning and laughing. Hobbies are learning new things, swimming, biking, cooking, flying, and traveling. Live, Laugh, Love.
I am the mother of Latanya Nunez, a senior this year.
Navajo Mountain High School-Advisor
Chrislee Graymountain
My name is Chrislee Graymountain, and I have over 10 years of experience in the education field. I graduated from Southern New Hampshire University, where I developed a strong foundation in educational practices and theories. My passion lies in working with children, as I find immense joy in guiding them and preparing them for their future careers in the real world. I believe that education is not just about academics; it’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are ready to face life’s challenges.
Monument Valley High School-Advisor
Ranee Cly
I am from and live in Monument Valley, Utah. I have always been motivated to help others throughout my career. I enjoy outdoor activities and love planting all types of seeds in my garden every year. As a GEAR UP advisor, it brings me joy to know that I am part of helping and guiding student into their careers. There are many opportunities to grow out in the world.
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Wayne Middle School-Advisor
Tracie Fallis
I was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana by my parents. Sam & Sally, thought that the best way to keep their four daughters out of trouble was to keep-them-busy! I played softball, basketball, took dance and gymnastics, cheered, ran track, played volleyball, and was part of the Peace Games traveling to Canada. I was on the Junior National Tennis League, a percussionist in a marching band, went to church camp, band camp, basketball, volleyball, and leadership camps and I loved it all. I attended Ball State University, Indiana University/Purdue Universe at Indianapolis. A move from the Sandy/Draper area to Torrey, Utah led to: working for the Natural History Association in Capitol Reef National Park, joining the Unified Fire Department of Wayne County, and working as a para-educator for Wayne Middle School which has led me to working with the San Juan Foundation and GEAR UP. The most important thing I learned before high school was to be a good friend, to be my own person, and to stand up for those who are having a hard time, standing up against bullies. I had been the subject of bullying when I was twelve and that experience gave me greater insight for the values, ethics, quality of character, and overall person I chose to be.
Wayne High School-Advisor
Linda Hunter
I was raised in Spanish Fork, Utah. After graduating from the Bryan Dental Institute I began my career working in the dental profession. Being a real “Army wife” our family relocated to several places in the USA and abroad. This experience allowed me to see all the opportunities that are possible in life when you work for it. I learned quickly, no risk-no growth. Settling in Leavenworth Kansas, I spent over 20 years managing a large Dental Practice. My favorite part of my career was empowering employees to reach their full potential. We recently moved to Bicknell, Utah to enjoy our retirement. Today, as a Gear Up Advisor at Wayne High I have the opportunity to continue my passion guiding students to achieve their full potential and dreams for the future.