Meet Our Team

Kristen Gonzales, Ed.D.

A San Diego native with a passion for California Community Colleges, Kristen Huyck brings her professional experience as a public affairs practitioner and career dedicated to education to the team.

Gabe Waite

Gabe graduated from SDSU with a bachelor’s degree in art and an emphasis in graphic design. Prior to MiraCosta, he contributed to design layouts for the San Diego Zoo's Zoonooz magazine and later was the senior designer for 11 years at a San Diego design firm specializing in corporate identity, communications, and signing for local industries.

Alex Karvounis

Soon after Alex graduated from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, he began traveling the world with his twin brother Nick, performing their original comedy variety show “Double Trouble.”

France Magtira-Cruz, Ed.D.

France found her passion in higher education, particularly community colleges, which she sees as vital for empowering individuals to achieve their goals. With experience in marketing, communications, and alumni relations, she has honed skills in strategizing to boost institutional presence and engage diverse audiences.

Christi Middlesworth

Laura Romero, MA

Laura, with over 12 years in higher education, holds a B.A. in Social Sciences from CSUSM and an M.A. in Education from SDSU. She is passionate about guiding students through their academic paths and is committed to inclusivity and equity. Laura strives to create an accessible, empowering environment that positively impacts students' lives.