Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS)

Carissa Craig-Huddleston
Director for EOPS, CARE, NextUp, and RISE 
ccraig@losmedanos.edu    

Hi, I’m Carissa Craig-Huddleston, the Director of EOPS, CARE, NextUp, and RISE at Los Medanos College. I began my journey in higher education over 20 years ago as a receptionist at Pima Community College while raising my two daughters and returning to school. Along the way, I earned an A.A. in Liberal Arts, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies, and an M.A. in Psychology.

I am passionate about helping students reach their goals because I know what it’s like to juggle school, work, and family. Outside of work, I loves spending time with my  husband trying a new restaurant, watching movies, reading, or spending time outdoors. I'm also a proud mom in a blended family that includes two daughters, a daughter-in-law, two stepsons, and two little dogs. 

Andrew Murphy
Program Coordinator for EOPS, BOEP, and RISE
amurphy@losmedanos.edu     

What can I say about myself? Well, Andrew Murphy is the Program Coordinator for EOPS, the Brother of Excellence Program, and RISE. I have been part of the LMC staff for over 14 years. As a former student of Pittsburg High School and Los Medanos College, you can say I took a nontraditional route to higher education. After a hiatus, I returned to college to pursue my degree at Southern New Hampshire University, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Business Management with a focus on Public Administration, as well as my Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.).

I can say that I really enjoy connecting with everyone, students, staff, and the community alike! I am all about helping others succeed in what they do while sharing a few laughs along the way. When I am not at work, you can catch me having a great time with my wife and daughter, getting in some exercise before the sun comes up, or watching those delightfully bad movies that are perfect for a good laugh! Please feel free to share your recommendations with me.

Nicole Gomes
Program Coordinator for EOPS, NextUp, and RISE
ngomes@losmedanos.edu  

Hi! I’m Nicole Gomes, and I’m thrilled to step into the role of NextUp/RISE Coordinator at Los Medanos College. I’ve been part of the Contra Costa Community College District for over 30 years, and throughout that time, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to grow professionally while serving in various areas across the college. I’m deeply committed to supporting special populations, helping students find their voice, build resilience, and thrive throughout their college experience.

Outside of work, I’m happily married and a proud mom to two amazing daughters. I’m a true water lover, whether it’s fishing, surfing, paddle boarding, or swimming, if it involves water, I’m in! A fun fact about me: I adore my puppy, Diesel, and I also raise chickens, yes, they all have names!

Marques McCoy
Program Coordinator for CalWORKs 
mmcoy@losmedanos.edu 

Hello, I am Marques McCoy, the CalWORKs Program Coordinator at Los Medanos College (LMC). As the coordinator for CalWORKs, I play a vital role in supporting students through comprehensive services and resources. Throughout my tenure with the Contra Costa Community College District, I have held various positions within student services, both at Diablo Valley College and LMC, consistently advocating for student success and equity.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of California, Berkeley, and a master’s degree in sociology from Arizona State University. In addition to my work with CalWORKs, I am an adjunct professor with the Umoja Scholars Program at LMC. In that role,  I remain committed to empowering students through culturally responsive teaching and mentorship.

Also, I am currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. I am scheduled to complete my Ed.D. in Fall 2026. My work continues to reflect a deep dedication to educational access, student development, and institutional change.

Aracely Martinez
Program Assistant for EOPS, CARE, NextUp, and RISE
amartinez@losmedanos.edu   

Adriana Lobo
Program Assistant for EOPS, CARE, NextUp, and RISE
alobo@losmedanos.edu   

I’m excited to join the EOPS, CARE, and NextUp programs as one of the new Program Assistants. I came on board this summer, bringing with me a background in education and student support. Most recently, I spent a year teaching Spanish and coordinating a community service program at the high school level.

I graduated from Eastern Washington University in 2021 with a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies, focusing on Psychology, Spanish, and Mental Health Crisis Management. My long-term goal is to earn a Master’s in Counseling and open my own practice. In the meantime, I’m looking forward to  walking the stage for my bachelor’s degree in June 2026, and I’m excited to support students and my team in  EOPS. Outside of work you'll find me crocheting for my small business (and for fun!), line and swing dancing with friends, and serving youth in the community. Wherever creation, collaboration, and community exists, is where you'll find me!

Elizabeth Costanza
Counselor for EOPS
alobo@losmedanos.edu    

Chrissa Basbas
Counselor for EOPS
cbasbas@losmedanos.edu  

Brittney West
Counselor for EOPS and High School Pathways
bwest@losmedanos.edu  

Douglas Phenix
Counselor for NextUp and EOPS 
dphenix@losmedanos.edu 

Hello, I'm Douglas Phenix, the NextUp/EOPS counselor. I am a proud community college success story and a former EOPS student and peer mentor who knows firsthand the life-changing impact of student support programs. After two earlier attempts at college and a three-year break, I found my purpose at Diablo Valley College—where mentors helped me realize my potential. I went on to earn my B.A. in Sociology from Cal State East Bay and a Master’s in Counseling from Saint Mary’s College.

I served as Director of the Career Center at Holy Names University, led career development initiatives, and presented at national conferences. I also worked in workforce development and as an adjunct counselor and instructor at both DVC and Chabot College in EOPS/NextUp/CARE programs. I co-founded Tembo Leaders, a leadership and community space for Black men at DVC, for the last three years.

I am known for my collaborative spirit and student-centered approach. I would describe this work as “heart work” and am deeply committed to equity, growth, and building strong community connections.

Outside of work, I enjoy bowling, axe throwing, working out, pro and college football (Go Birds and Canes!), and spending time with loved ones.

Daniela Guzman
Counselor for EOPS 
dguzman@losmedanos.edu  

Rudolf Rose
Counselor for EOPS, CalWORKs, and CARE
rrose@losmedanos.edu