Statewide nonprofit Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund is excited to share that Michele Barraza joined the team on Aug. 12.

As Program Manager for the ASPSF West Central Region, Barraza will manage volunteers and assist single parent students in Conway, Faulkner, Perry, Pope, and Yell counties. She will play a critical role in awarding scholarships and providing a support system to single parents who are building brighter futures for their families.

“Coming from a single parent home and as a nontraditional student, I was called to help single parents in Arkansas,” she said. “I am excited to share the opportunities that the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund organization provides to single parents to promote personal and professional growth.”

Barraza is currently a member of the Russellville City Council and most recently, worked with the nonprofit Get Loud Arkansas as its Operations Coordinator. Other positions she has held include Special Projects Coordinator for the President’s Office at Arkansas Tech University and Program Manager for River Valley Food 4 Kids.

“From her community connections to her bubbly personality, Michele is a great addition to our staff team!” ASPSF Program Director LaCresha Newton said. “She’s no stranger to the field of education and her experience in volunteer management and recruitment will allow her to hit the ground running as she makes immediate contributions to her region and our state.”

Michele holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master of Arts in Student Affairs Administration, both from Arkansas Tech University. She and her husband, Jesse, have two sons, Brody and Ezra. They enjoy spending time with family and friends and attending community events and activities. 

For more information about Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund — which has awarded more than $50 million in scholarships across the state to low-income single parents since 1990 — contact ASPSF Communications Director Jen Para at [email protected] or 501-550-6304.