Our Team
Board of Directors
Dr. Eusebius Small
Founder of COCE Kenya, Dr. Small originates from Busia County, Kenya, and serves as Executive Director. Providing education as an opportunity for social improvement in Kenya is his passion.
Dr. Ashley Palmer
Dr. Palmer is passionate about promoting health, education, and well-being among children, youth, and young adults and is excited to continue working on those values with COCE Kenya.
Dr. Bonita Sharma PhD
Dr. Sharma is passionate about working on social, economic, and environmental issues globally. She has been a long-term supporter of COCE and joined to support the organization’s mission on a community-driven strength-based approach.
Professor Karla Arenas-Itotia, LMSW
Professor Arenas-Itotia assists COCE in developing local community relationships both in the USA and in Kenya.
Dr. Justin Taillon, PhD, MBA, CHTP, CHIA
Dr. Taillon is excited to work with COCE to make communities better places to live, work, and play. He has worked extensively in community development in his applied academic career. He looks forward to being a part of enhancing the socio-cultural sustainability in regions where COCE operates.
Talisa Coronado, LMSW
Having previously worked for international NGOs Ms. Coronado brings her experience and passion to COCE’s web presence.
Dr. Scott Ryan, MSW, MBA, PhD
Dr. Ryan is a professor and was the UTA School of Social Work dean for 14 years. He has extensive experience building organizations. His practice and scholarship interests are in supporting vulnerable children and families. He is excited to help COCE as it continues to increase its impact on the local community.
Wendy Thornell, LMSW
Merging her passion for education with her determination to empower, support, and advocate for the youth of Kenya, Wendy Thornell is excited to support the mission of COCE in an effort to bring about generational change.
Country Director
Jackson Ochwila
Currently living and working in Busia County, Kenya, Jackson is a vital part of COCE’s mission to involve local communities in projects.
Volunteers
Adriana Martinez
As a previous COCE Kenya intern, and current volunteer, she brings a passion for macro-oriented practice, collaborative teamwork, and international social justice.
Previously a COCE Kenya intern, she brings her passion for community, advocacy and global citizenship.
Xiomara Rios
She is dedicated to advancing community empowerment and global social justice. As a previous intern with COCE Kenya, and current volunteer, she brings her passion for creative positive change and social equity.