Dr. Karim comes to First 5 Stanislaus with a background in elementary education, organizational leadership and development, and human resources. Her work experience has ranged from an elementary classroom teacher, school site administrator, district superintendent, and human resources leader. Shammy’s work has focused on working with the underserved and second language communities. She has a doctorate in Organizational Leadership, a M.A. in Education, and B.A. in Social Science. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, serving the community, and reading.
Stephanie’s experience includes program and outcome monitoring, contract development and compliance, and policy review. Stephanie joined First 5 and the County to make an impact in her community and the families living here. Stephanie has a B.A. in Psychology from California State University, Stanislaus. She enjoys spending time with her family and supporting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts within Stanislaus County.
Veronica Ascencio is bilingual in Spanish and comes to us with a background in auditing, evaluation of internal controls, technical accounting, and budget. Her career with the County started with her working her way up through the entry level of the accounting job series to the highest level of Accountant III. Her experience has ranged from an accounting clerk with probation, accountant I in property tax collection, an accountant I as an internal auditor, an accountant II calculating the property tax roll and working with special districts in Stanislaus County. Prior to her county career, Veronica worked in administration for a migrant head start. It was her experience with head start and providing a service to early education and development that led her to First 5 Stanislaus. Veronica enjoys gardening, cooking, and gathering with her family, and she is always eager to help those in need.
Sonia comes to First 5 with extensive Business Management and Human Resources experience. Being Modesto born and raised has made serving the community a passion and being part of First 5 allows for a direct connection in serving the local community. Sonia’s Human Resources profession brings experience in management, recruiting, training, employee relations and labor relations. Sonia is bilingual in Spanish and is very thankful for the opportunity to be part of the First 5 team. When Sonia is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her two grandchildren, outdoor activities, and writing.
