Meet the Staff
Gwen Murrell
Career and Workforce Education, Manager, Career Pathways
Gwen joined Valencia College in 2018 bringing her experience and leadership to Valencia by helping students as a Tech Express and Career Pathways Coach. In 2022, she began serving as the manager of Career Pathways and continues to help students pursue a college degree. She believes "the more you learn, the better you will live”! Partnering with the school districts to build articulated pathways for students interested in attending Valencia, she facilitates the development of innovative pathways that accelerate learning while giving students a chance to explore high-wage, high-demand careers. Gwen received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and her master’s from Western Governors University.
Anita Gentz
Career Pathways, Career Pathways Coach
Anita joined the Tech Express team in 2016. In her role as Tech Express Coach, Anita is able to utilize her 38 years of experience with Orange County Public Schools at Valencia as she continues to strengthen the consortium partnership while using her knowledge to assist technical program graduates transition to Valencia. Anita believes that transitioning these students to an articulated A.S degree program at Valencia prepares them for success and prosperity in their chosen career field.
Along with her professional, instructional, and administrative experience, Anita has a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education from the University of Central Florida.
Nory Maldonado-Lutz
Career Pathways Coach
Nory joined Valencia’s team in 2022; currently serves as a Tech Express Coach. Nory is a proud Puma Alumni with a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and currently pursuing her Masters in Career & Workforce Education at UCF. She has over 30 years of experience in career development and a diverse HR background Nory’s extensive background also includes significant contributions at Andrews International, Flagler Construction Equipment, Publix Supermarkets, Universal Parks & Resorts and others where she excelled in HR development, talent acquisition, talent management, and organizational support. Her skills in communication, troubleshooting, and customer service have been honed through diverse roles, making her a versatile and dedicated professional in her field.
Siamak Erami
Specialist, Career Pathways
Siamak joined the Career and Workforce Education team at Valencia in January 2023. He believes that strong relationships with industry partners and students foster environments that help Valencia continue to be a beacon of success for the community it serves. Before joining Valencia as the Career Pathways Specialist, he completed his A.A. degree here at Valencia and is currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Science in Computing Technology and Software Development program at Valencia with an expected graduation date of Spring of 2024. Siamak hopes to be able to use his degree here at Valencia and continue his career working in the realm of higher education through the field of software development.
Roxy Nelson
Coordinator, Employer Relations
Roxy joined the Career and Workforce Education team at Valencia in September 2023. She believes that efficient communication and analytical skills are the building blocks of a successful career. Before starting her professional career at Valencia, she completed her A.A degree through Valencia’s Dual Enrollment Program. She currently holds a bachelor’s degree in Technical Communication with a minor in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida. In addition, she received honors recognition from UCF and intends to get her master's in Creative Writing with a specific focus in Higher Education.