The Pathways Advising Center is located on the 2nd floor
of the Saulsbury Campus Center
Virtual Hours are Mon.-Thurs. 8a-7p, Fri. 8a-5p and Sat. 9a-12p.
When emailing OC staff, please do the following so we may better assist you.
- Email from your OC email account (@odessa.edu)
- Include your full first and last name.
- Include your 7-digit student ID number.
- Include detailed class information: semester, prefix, number, and section (17/FA, 1st 8-weeks, ENGL 1301.F01C).
Dropping Or Withdrawing?
Meet the Team!
Our Secretary
She is originally from the Rio Grande Valley and moved to Odessa in the summer of
2024. She joined Odessa College in July 2025 and is grateful for the opportunity to
support students as they move toward the next step in their educational journey.
With five years of experience working in front-office school settings, Brenda is committed to ensuring every person she meets feels both seen and heard. She believes that welcoming students through the Advising doors is the perfect place to make a meaningful impact each day.
Outside of work, Brenda enjoys spending quality time with her husband and children
Bachelor's Program
Education:
M.B.A – Western Governors University
B.A.A.S. in Leadership and Management – Odessa College
A.A.S. Business Leadership - Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: My favorite part about Odessa College is the genuine commitment everyone shares toward helping students succeed.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: My favorite aspect of coaching is advocating for students and guiding them through their college journey with confidence and clarity.
Advice to Students: College moves fast. Keeping track of deadlines, assignments, and priorities will save you a lot of stress.
Phone: 432-335-6801 | Email: laguilar@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Started her higher education at Odessa College and was a transfer student to The University of Texas Permian Basin. She got her Bachelor’s Degree in Children & Family Studies and is currently working on her Master’s Degree in Special Education. She taught Early Education for four years, then worked with a community outreach program at UTPB called the First 5 Program. Throughout her career path, she has grown a passion for encouraging the community on the importance of higher education. In her free time, she likes to watch movies, play Mario Kart with her husband and son, and go out for evening walks.
Phone: 432-335-6657 | Email: iquintela@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
School of Health Sciences
Education:
M.A. in Administrative Leadership- Angelo State University
B.I.S. in Early Childhood Education, EC-6 grade-University of Texas at El Paso
A.A.T. in Special Education (4-8 grade)- El Paso Community College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: My favorite part about Odessa College is the strong sense of community and the genuine care everyone has for student success.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: I am passionate about student advocacy and helping students navigate their college journey with confidence.
Advice to Students: Manage your time well, stay organized, and don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.
Phone: 432-335-6846 | Email: icastro@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
B.A. in Communication from UT Permian Basin
Favorite Part of Odessa College: The community! Everyone has a support system here, whether you have been an employee for 10 years or a student for less than 24 hours.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: I love welcoming students into the OC Community, sharing with them all of the resources that we have to offer, and helping them to find their own way!
Advice to Students: Never compare your journey to those around you, you are right where you are meant to be.
Phone: 432-335-6550 | Email: bgardner@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
M.A. in Communication Studies- Texas Tech University
B.A. in University Studies concentrating in: Human resources, psychology, and communication
– Texas Tech University
Favorite Part about Odessa College: The community and innovative environment that focuses on always finding a way for student success
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Getting to know my students, what they need to be successful and seeing them cross that finish line!
Advice to Students: Keep an open mind, work hard, and give yourself grace! You can do anything you put your mind to!
Phone: 432-335-6745 | Email: lgordon@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
MBA- Western Governors University
B.S. in Business Administration-Management -Western Governors University
Favorite Part about Odessa College: My favorite part about Odessa College is how hands on the and involved the college is with our community and students.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: My favorite part of coaching students is watching them grow and fulfill their academic and career goals and watching the growth along the way.
Advice to Students: Create a game plan, be flexible, ensure proper school life balance, enjoy every minute, and celebrate even small successes.
Phone: 432-335-6829 | Email: rnavarrette@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
M.S. in Health and Human Performance – Sul Ross State University
B.S. in Exercise Science – Sul Ross State University
A.A. General Studies – Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: My favorite part about Odessa College is the people; everyone treats you like family or a longtime friend. Everyone on campus always has a welcoming smile and makes Odessa College authentically genuine.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: I am passionate about helping students navigate their college journey and helping students open their minds to countless opportunities with confidence.
Advice to Students: Stay on top of your studies, stay organized, and don't be afraid to ask questions or for help!
Phone: 432-335-6438 | Email: dibarra@odessa.edu | Schedule an Appointment
Education: B.S. in Kinesiology from University of Texas San Antonio
Location: Odessa, Texas
Favorite Part of Odessa College: My favorite part of OC is how supportive the school is to students and the community. OC offers so many resources to help people achieve success.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Being able to help students navigate college life and help them from start to finish.
Advice to Students: Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Take advantage of the awesome resources you have here at OC.
Phone: 432-335-2513 | Email: framos@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
B.S in Exercise Science- University of Texas Permian Basin
Favorite Part of Odessa College: OC has always been a welcoming and inviting environment. We are a community whose mission is to offer affordable education and services to ensure student success.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Making a positive impact on a student’s life. I enjoy having the opportunity to provide guidance and support to students as they navigate down their road to toward reaching their academic goals.
Advice to Students: Stay organized and establish short-term and long-term goals. Continue to learn and find ways to improve. There are many services to do just that! Make sure to utilize them
Phone: 432-335-2512 | Email: zcavazos@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
School of Liberal Arts & Education
Education:
M.Ed. Master of Education- Sul Ross State University
B.A. Bachelor of Arts in Psychology- UT Permian Basin
A.A. Associate of Arts in Psychology- Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: OC is always looking for ways to make education accessible for all.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: I love that I get to serve the students in my hometown and give back to the community.
Advice to Students: It’s never too late to earn an education!
Phone: 432-335-6823 | Email: ahinojos@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
M.S. in Criminal Justice Administration – U.T.P.B
B.A. in Criminology – U.T.P.B
A.A.S in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement – Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: My favorite part about Odessa College is the friends I have made and the impact I get to make on my community.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: As a first-generation student myself, I am passionate about helping navigate the college experience for our students.
Advice to Students: Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Phone: 432-335-6877 | Email: alinares@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Favorite Part of Odessa College: I've always loved the atmosphere here at OC. Everyone is open and kind and willing to help you succeed. The campus is full of people who are truly invested in our community and your education.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Being able to meet with students and help guide them on how to thrive in their education and life.
Advice to Students: In a world where you can be anything, be kind.
Phone: 432-335-6323 | Email: arangel@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
School of Business & Industry
Education:
M.A. in Communication – Angelo State University
B.A. in Communication - UT Permian Basin
A.A. in Speech and Rhetorical Studies – Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: The student-centered atmosphere; every department is committed to improving the student experience.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Getting to play a small (but mighty) part in helping students reach their educational goals.
Advice to Students: College can be challenging, so remember that you can do hard things!
Phone: 432-335-6756 | Email: dhohle@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
B.A in Multidisciplinary studies
Favorite Part about Odessa College: I enjoy the friendly atmosphere with co-workers and the students.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: My favorite aspect of coaching are the stories that students share while students are getting registered!
Advice to Students: Take advantage of school resources. Plan and spread out your study time. Form friendships and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Be strong and courageous. Joshua 1:9
Phone: 432-335-2510 | Email: azuniga@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
B.A. (Marketing), MBA The University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Favorite Part of Odessa College: I love how OC supports the students and how welcoming everyone on campus is!
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: My favorite aspect of coaching is building relationships and helping people navigate important decisions with clarity and confidence.
Advice to Students: Learn from your mistakes and move forward. Burnout is real. Sleep, exercise, and ask for help when needed. We have free resources to help you succeed.
Phone: 432-335-6712 | Email: broberson@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
B.A.S - University of Texas Permian Basin
Favorite Part of Odessa College: My favorite part of OC is the vast number of resources students have, ensuring they are successful. Both on campus and in the community. As well as the positive environment.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Being there for students to celebrate their achievements. And being there to lift their spirits when struggles arise.
Advice to Students: Your past does not define your future. You can do anything you set your mind to and never let anyone make you think otherwise!
Phone: 432-335-6696 | Email: jemartinez@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
M.Ed. in Counseling/Psychology and Human Development – Hardin-Simmons University
BBA in Management & Finance – Hardin-Simmons University
AAS in Occupational Safety and Health – Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: My favorite part about Odessa College is the family environment and the steadfast commitment and dedication to providing a personalized and supportive learning environment for our students.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Having the opportunity to serve as a mentor and impacting the lives of our students as they pursue their educational goals and career aspirations.
Advice to Students: Engage as much as possible in Campus Student Life and all that it has to offer. The more connected you are, the more successful you will become.
Phone: 432-335-6357 | Email: rhernandez@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
B.A. Marketing- University of Texas of the Permian Basin
M.B.A Digital Marketing – Western Governor’s University
Favorite Part about Odessa College: One of my favorite things about Odessa College is the meaningful friendships I’ve built during my time here.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: My favorite aspect of coaching is building relationships with my students and supporting them as they work toward their future goals.
Advice to Students: Life will happen; some goals may or may not be met, but never giving up is your greatest journey.
Phone: 432-335-6704 | Email: cpatterson@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
Ed.D in Leadership and Innovation – Arizona State University (in progress)
MBA – University of Texas Permian Basin
B.A, Philosophy – University of Texas at Austin
A.S in General Studies – Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: The culture of support and the meaningful relationships I’ve built with both students and colleagues!
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: I’m passionate about making education more accessible and empowering non-traditional students to navigate their own paths!
Advice to Students: Don’t be afraid to fail! Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and learn more about yourself. :)
Phone: 432-335-6409 | Email: maabila@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Education:
M.S. in Management & Leadership- Western Governors University (in progress)
B.A.A.S. in Leadership & Management- Odessa College
A.A.S. in Child Development- Odessa College
Favorite Part about Odessa College: My favorite part about Odessa College is the supportive environment and the opportunity to help students reach their goals.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: I love working one-on-one with students, helping them overcome challenges, and seeing them succeed and graduate!
Advice to Students: Ask questions, stay in communication with your advisor, and do not give up when things get difficult. We are here to help you, and you are not alone on your college journey.
Phone: 432-335-6367 | Email: jvillarreal@odessa.edu | Schedule an Appointment
Athletics Program
Education:
Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from University of Texas of the Permian
Basin
Bachelor of General Studies – Education from West Texas A&M University
Favorite Part of Odessa College: I love the positivity & culture that surrounds OC. Everyone here is supportive of each other, our students, & the community.
Favorite Aspect of Coaching: Being able to motivate & guide my students through their educational journey as they reach their goals. I love watching the growth & celebrating each achievement as it happens. Their success makes this job so worth it!
Advice to Students: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela
Every day is an opportunity to learn & grow. That is the key to reaching your true potential. Embrace learning as a lifelong journey & see how it empowers you to make a lasting impact on your goals, your life, & the world around you.
Phone: 432-335-6312| Email: burias@odessa.edu | Schedule An Appointment
Other Contacts:
OCA | Stephanie Galindo | sgalindo@odessa.edu | 432-335-6317
OCTECHS | Linda Granados | lgranados@odessa.edu | 432-335-6755
Mental Health Counselor | cares@odessa.edu |
Office of Special Populations | Angelica Ramos | aramosodessa.edu | 432-335-6697
Veteran Affairs | veterans@odessa.edu | 432-335-6833
General Advising | advising@odessa.edu | 432-335-6433