Our Staff
Learn more about our staff and the work we do
Jennifer Martinez, Chief Executive Officer
As Chief Executive Officer of The Arc of Texas, Jennifer Martinez is committed to promoting the vision of The Arc of Texas through the creation of innovative policy recommendations and building on the strong partnerships that exist with self-advocates, as well as state and federal agencies.
With more than 20 years experience in the nonprofit sector, Jennifer brings a rich and vibrant vision to the organization. She began her career with The Arc of Texas more than a decade ago as Program Coordinator for the Texas Microboards Program; served as a board member for the organization beginning in 2017; and began her role as CEO in 2019.
Jennifer is inspired by the work The Arc of Texas does to promote the civil rights of everyone in our community, and the role we play as an advocate with and for Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Prior to joining The Arc of Texas as CEO, Jennifer worked in a variety of roles, serving most recently as the Director of Operations and System Management in the Office of Mental Health Coordination. She earned a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Ethics from St. Edward’s University and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Texas A&M University.
A true Texan, Jennifer enjoys exploring the beauty that the Texas Hill Country has to offer: hiking, camping, swimming, and kayaking every chance she gets. As a fervent college football fan, she doesn’t miss an opportunity to cheer on her Aggies.
Ashley Ford, Director of Public Policy & Advocacy
As Director of Public Policy & Advocacy, Ashley oversees public policy and advocacy activities, supports policies that improve the quality of life for Texans with IDD and specializes in policy affecting community services and support and competitive integrated employment. Joining the Arc of Texas team in 2020 as the Deputy Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, Ashley brought a breadth of experience in the disability and public policy field to the team.
Ashley first became excited about Texas politics while completing her Bachelor of Public Administration at Texas State University and interning with State Representative John Zerwas during the 83rd Legislature. Prior to her role at The Arc of Texas, Ashley worked at The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities in roles impacting their public policy, communications, and grants initiatives. As their Public Policy and Communications Specialist, Ashley specialized in policy affecting higher education, sexual assault, and access to competitive integrated employment for Texans with IDD. She also worked closely on the origination of many TCDD grant project ideas, including two that are now awarded to The Arc of Texas: Partners in Disability Leadership and the Whole Person Project. It is Ashley’s passion to bring the experiences of people with IDD to the table, and she is inspired as an ally and advocate by the ways she witnesses the strength of the boots on the ground in her work.
Ashley is a board member of the Texas Chapter of the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) and sits on the Advisory Council on Postsecondary Education for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. In addition to her major contributions to the mission of The Arc of Texas, Ashley enjoys spending time with her goldendoodle, Shiner, and exploring the beauty and wonders of the Texas Hill Country with her family.
Contact Ashley to learn about the public policy issues impacting Texans with IDD.
Kirk Noaker, Senior Specialist, Mental Health & Criminal Justice
As the Senior Specialist of Mental Health & Criminal Justice, Kirk’s primary responsibility is to manage, plan, and execute the Whole Person Project (WPP) which seeks to expand access to quality mental health services for adult Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Kirk was previously a county Magistrate Judge where he focused heavily on the mental health needs of defendants. He is a member of the Judicial Commission for Mental Health’s Collaborative Council (JCMH) which is comprised of interested stakeholders and advocates from across Texas to inform the JCMH on important matters when considering projects and policy. As a Magistrate Judge, he was often tasked with teaching new and in-term Judges across Texas on a wide variety of subjects including legislative updates, magistration, bail and bond, and mental health.
Prior to becoming a judge, Kirk was a longtime law enforcement officer who served in the US Army, the Baltimore Police Department, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in Maryland. Additionally, he was a Task Force Agent for the DEA, a Federal Air Marshal, and a Joint Terrorism Task Force Agent for the FBI. He also served as a capital defense investigator for defendants charged with Capital Murder who faced the death penalty.
In his free time, Kirk volunteers as the Executive Officer (XO) of the Commemorative Air Force’s (CAF) Highland Lakes Squadron (Burnet, TX). The CAF operates and maintains several World War II era aircraft where the mission is to educate, inspire, and honor through flight and living history experiences. He also enjoys serving as the Chair / Director of the annual Bluebonnet Airshow that takes place at Kate Craddock Field (Burnet, TX).
Spencer Miller-Payne, Director of Communications and Marketing
As Director of Communications and Marketing, Spencer Miller-Payne cultivates relationships with current and prospective allies of The Arc of Texas. The Director shares information about The Arc and provides Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), their families, and their supporters with updates on the relevant issues.
An Austin native, and the only child of two professors, Spencer developed a love of politics, policy, and language early on. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Government from the University of Texas and a Master of Public Policy from New England College, he worked in and around the Texas Capitol for years before moving to Washington, D.C. to work with non-profit organizations. After five years in DC, Spencer and his wife, Kim, returned to Texas to raise their children closer to friends and family.
When not engaged in full-contact parenting, you can find Spencer rooting for his beloved UT Longhorns, cheering on his soccer-playing son and daughter, and attempting to avoid injury playing soccer himself.
Contact Spencer if you want to learn more about becoming an ally of The Arc of Texas or if you are a journalist interested in reporting on or connecting with Texans with IDD.
Kathy Pham, Director of Finance & Operations
As the Director of Finance & Operations, Kathy Pham contributes to the vision and mission of The Arc of Texas by providing financial stewardship and oversight of business operations.
Kathy brought her skills in accounting and management to The Arc of Texas as a part-time accountant in 2015 and has been a part of the team in a full-time capacity since 2016. Kathy’s time at The Arc of Texas has been a rich learning experience, and she is passionate about the work she does to support the initiatives and priorities of this organization.
Prior to her work at The Arc of Texas, Kathy served in a variety of accounting and management positions for other Austin-based organizations, including business manager of an open-enrollment public charter school in East Austin; an accountant for the Texas Health & Human Services Commission; and Operations Manager for Austin Partners in Education. Kathy received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from St. Edward’s University.
When Kathy is not supporting The Arc of Texas, she loves spending time with her growing family of two fur babies and two furless babies.
Contact Kathy to learn more about how you can become an ally of The Arc of Texas.
Kyle Michaels, Finance Coordinator
As Finance Coordinator, Kyle Michaels provides administrative support to the Director of Finance & Operation on entry-level accounting functions and works to ensure that operations run efficiently.
Kyle has a background in management and operations and joined The Arc of Texas in 2019. She loves working for an organization whose mission she is passionate about and witnessing the advocacy work that The Arc of Texas provides and supports.
Prior to joining our team, Kyle worked in a variety of roles that refined her operations and administrative skills, including office manager of an office supply company and tour manager and promotions coordinator for several bands and indie labels. Kyle studied psychology at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon.
Kyle enjoys all the opportunities living in Austin provides, including live music and comedy. When she is not in the office, you will likely find her attending a live show or baking something delicious.
Contact Kyle with questions regarding accounts payable/receivable or purchasing.
Adrienne Javadi, Administrative Coordinator
Adrienne first heard of The Arc while working as a case manager for The Mary Lee Foundation 2020. Adrienne always kept The Arc in the back of her mind after being a witness to the positive impact the organization has on individuals with disabilities. When an opportunity opened, Adrienne was excited for the chance to be part of a life changing mission.
Adrienne has worked in a variety of positions since graduating from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management in 2005. While her background began in operations, she eventually was able to focus on her true passion of helping those in need when she moved to Austin in 2009. Prior to joining The Arc, Adrienne worked for The Mary Lee Foundation, and Meals on Wheels of Central Texas.
Adrienne loves attending live shows, reading, and all the fun outdoor activities that Austin has to offer. In her free time, Adrienne enjoys traveling, pushing herself physically, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Haley Greer, JD, Master Pooled Trust Director
As the Director of The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust, a supplemental needs trust that provides people with disabilities an ongoing source of money for supplemental wants and needs, Haley Greer is responsible for assisting families in establishing Trust accounts; keeping up with current Medicaid regulations; approving Trust disbursements; communicating with attorneys and judges; and educating interested groups about the benefits of the trust.
Empowering individuals to speak up and advocate for themselves drives her work, and she is passionate about the part she plays to improve the quality of life for individuals in the trust.
Prior to joining The Arc of Texas in 2011, Haley worked for many years in the Texas House of Representatives and focused primarily on legislation related to workforce development, health and human services, and school finance. Haley spent her formative years working in campaign politics and still enjoys watching … from afar.
Haley received her undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin in 2004, and her law degree from Saint Louis University in 2010. She was admitted to the Texas Bar in November 2010.
Haley loves a Texas road trip, especially one that leads to a scenic vista or a delicious meal.
Contact Haley for information on presenting about special needs trusts and future planning.
Yamina Gomez, Master Pooled Trust Administrator
As Master Pooled Trust Administrator, Yamina Gomez oversees the coordination of the Master Pooled Trust program for prompt and effective disbursement of funds to benefit Trust beneficiaries. With more than a decade experience in the nonprofit sector, Yamina joined The Arc of Texas in 2015. Yamina is continuously inspired by the organization’s ability to make a difference in the lives of individuals who need it.
Yamina received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Cal Poly Pomona, but now enjoys calling Texas home.
When out of the office, Yamina enjoys taking naps and hanging out with her pack of dogs.
Contact Yamina to learn more about The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust.
Amanda Carvallo, Master Pooled Trust Coordinator
As Master Pooled Trust Coordinator, Amanda Carvallo supports beneficiaries by submitting disbursement requests and answering questions related to opened accounts.
Amanda joined The Arc of Texas in 2021. Amanda has a heart for the organization’s mission and is excited by the way her role as Master Pooled Trust Coordinator allows her to support the clients she serves.
Amanda attended Texas State University, receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. With a professional history in various client-facing roles, Amanda brought her expertise in customer service and heart for inclusion and equity to the organization. Her favorite professional experience however, was working as a florist, where she got to combine her love of customer service with her attention to detail and creative passions.
When she is not in the office, Amanda enjoys taking it easy. Her favorite past times include, relaxing with friends and family, lounging in front of a good comedy, and who could blame her, sleeping in.
Ashley Melero, Master Pooled Trust Benefits Resource Specialist
As Benefits and Resource Specialist, Ashley Melero supports the Master Pooled Trust by providing case management and monthly presentations on Future Planning 101.
Ashley joined The Arc of Texas in 2018 and enjoys the opportunity working for this organization provides to help people with disabilities realize their full potential and ensure quality of life.
Prior to joining The Arc of Texas team, Ashley worked at Communication Services for the Deaf, translating phone calls for people who are deaf. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Texas Tech University and after graduating made Austin her home.
In her free time Ashley enjoys being outside. Some of her favorite pastimes include playing beep baseball, attending sporting events, playing with her dogs, and hanging out with her family and friends.
Contact Ashley if you are a care manager for a MPT beneficiary.
Delight Melero, Guide Dog
Delight is a native of Austin, Texas. Her current work includes traveling with her colleague and friend, Ashley, and advocating for the equal access of service animals like herself. In her free time Delight enjoys being outside. Some of her favorite pastimes include cheering on Ashley in beep baseball and hanging out with her family and friends.
Colette Flormann, Enrollment Specialist
As Master Pooled Trust Enrollment Specialist, Colette Flormann provides operational support to the Master Pooled Trust program and educates individuals with disabilities, families, attorneys and judges on the program and the enrollment process.
Colette joined The Arc of Texas in 2013. With a personal background of having friends and family members with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Colette has a heart for the organization’s mission and is excited about the ways she is able to make quality of life better for those she serves.
Colette attended Eastern Washington University, receiving a Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting. Colette brings to The Arc of Texas professional experience in funding and advocacy, with prior work experience at the Texas Center of the Judiciary and support for the Children’s Justice Act Grant, a grant designed to improve the investigation, prosecution and judicial handling of cases of child abuse and neglect.
Colette loves a good adventure. When she is not in the office you can find her seeking thrills at an amusement park, rollerblading, or exploring Austin’s hiking trails with her two children.
Contact Colette for information on the Master Pooled Trust enrollment process.
Glen Purvis, Master Pooled Trust Coordinator
As Master Pooled Trust Coordinator, Glen helps beneficiaries and their families with disbursement requests and keeps them informed on the status of their accounts.
Glen joined The Arc of Texas in 2021. Glen is inspired by the ways The Arc of Texas does genuine good advocating for Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and his ability to combine his profession with his passion for helping others, excites him about the work he is doing.
Glen attended Texas State University, receiving his degree in Electronic Media. Prior to joining the organization Glen worked in various client-facing service and logistics roles for organizations ranging from major retail companies to small, local businesses. Glen brought this wide range of experience in customer service to his role advocating for the civil rights of all Texans.
Glen enjoys living in the live music capital of the world, and when he is not in the office, you will likely find him in the audience of a show or festival or back at home gaming.
Contact Glen regarding active accounts for Trust beneficiaries with last names starting with A-L.
Jessica Wright, Master Pooled Trust Coordinator
As Master Pooled Trust Coordinator, Jessica Wright supports clients and administers disbursements from the Master Pooled Trust. Joining The Arc of Texas team in 2018, Jessica brought with her five years’ experience in finance and management and an abundance of vision and thoughtfulness to equip her for this position.
Jessica is inspired by the ways The Arc of Texas is able to fill the gap for individuals who would otherwise have a hard time receiving help, and the role she plays in partnering with and advocating for Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities excites her about the work she is doing.
Prior to accepting this position at The Arc of Texas, Jessica served as a branch manager for a financial services organization. Jessica received her degree in Business Management from Southern New Hampshire University.
Ahead of the Marie Kondo craze, Jessica enjoys organizing and reading in her spare time.
Contact Jessica regarding active accounts for Trust beneficiaries with last names starting with M-Z.
