Meet the Transition University TEAM

Dr. Mariya Davis

Dr. Mariya Davis is an Associate Professor of Special Education and the Principal Investigator for Transition University. Overseeing research and project implementation. Her work and expertise centers on transition to post-school environments for students with disabilities. Dr. Davis is a proud Army Veteran's wife and Air Force Mom! In her free time, Dr. Davis likes to paint, garden, cook, and spend time wit her family.

Dr. Eric J Lopez

Dr. Eric J Lopex is a Professor at Texas A&M University-San Antonio. Dr. Lopez has over 20 years of higher education experience & works with underserved communities. Dr. Lopez was an American Council on Education Fellow (2016-2017). His research interests include multicultural assessment, consultation and intervention. Dr. Lopez enjoys gardening, hiking, and listening to and playing conjunto and mariachi music.

Dr. Gavin Watts

Dr. Gavin Watts is the co-lead of the Transition University Program as well as an American Professor of Special Education at A&M-SA. Dr. Watts is an avid golder, bike rider, and in his free time, enjoys camping and exploring the vastness of West Texas.

Felix Flores

Felix Flores Amaya is an Instructional AI/Technology Specialist at Texas A&M University-San Antonio. He supports the integration of AI and technology to enhance academic and career development initiatives, with a focus on digital literacy and workforce readiness. He previously served as Senior Program Analyst for the City of San Antonio's workforce development efforts and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Cybersecurity at Texas A&M University-San Antonio.

Lauren Huerta, M.Ed.

Ms. Huerta is a recent graduate degree recipient from Texas Tech University and Transition University's Career and Exmployment Specialist. Some of Ms. Huerta's favorite hobbies include hiking, sewing, spending time with family, and going tubing in the Comal River.

Darrell Guzman

Darrell Guzman is currently the Academic and Career Program Coordinator with Transition University. Assisting with the overall effectiveness and delivery of the program. Working with stakeholders and partners to ensure overall success and development of the student. Transition University will enable the student to experience university life while developing the skills to become self-sufficient.

He grew up in Texas and graduated from Texas Lutheran University. Continued his education and recieved his master's degree in organizational management from the University of Phoenix in May of 2000. Certified Job Placement Specialist through the University of North Texas. He has worked in the education and social services field for 20 years. A Vista AmeriCorps Alumni and developed the Life Skills Curriculum for Catholic Charities Community Center. He worked at New Mexico State University Works Program as a Liasion and Career Development Specialist. He taught Life Skills and GED in the adult Detention centers in New Mexico. As Homeless Outreach Manage, he had the opportunity to assist homeless young adults ages 18-24 with emergency housing and Life Skills.