OUR TEAM
As alumnae of illustrious public and private universities, we stand together to humbly serve the brightest students and their families through our personal and professional resources, experiences, and networking.
SONJA GARDNER
Co-Founder | Student Engagement Chair
A graduate of Prairie View A&M University (BSME) and University of Houston (MBA), Sonja is a certified Project Management Professional with over 20 years of professional experience in Project and Program Management in the Telecom and Petroleum Technology industries. As an Adjunct Professor in PVAMU’s College of Engineering, she introduces undergraduate students to the fundamentals of the Project Management Profession. She is also an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., currently serving in the Suburban Houston Fort Bend Alumnae Chapter.
Contact: sonja@freshmanbeginnings.org
“Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, I have witnessed firsthand those who were elated about the opportunity to attend college for a “fresh beginning” but were deflated at the thought of not being able to afford the basics for the transition. This is still an ongoing issue for many students today, and I am driven to aid in filling the gap.”
DIONNE WILLIAMS
Co-Founder | Finance Chair
Dionne completed her undergraduate studies at Dillard University and her graduate studies at Capital University, where she earned a Master’s degree in Taxation. Her career began in accounting with Amoco Company followed by a transition to the technical field with Columbia Gas, Enron, and Computer Science Corporation. Today, she is a Manager of Technology at BHP, where she focuses on enabling the business with innovated technical solutions.
Contact: dionne@freshmanbeginnings.org
“It was my mother’s dream for me to attend college and improve myself in ways that wasn’t available to her. So imagine our excitement when I was admitted to Dillard University…on partial scholarship. I remember thinking about all the things not covered by my scholarship and how will I acquire these items before the first day of class. Freshman Beginnings was created to fill this gap for students today.”
MEAGAN HANSEN
Member - Board of Directors | Media Relations Chair
Inspired by the determination of her immigrant family, Meagan developed the love of education at an early age. With her mother’s financial support and her own intelligence, Meagan was able begin and complete her Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Advertising with a minor in Spanish at University of Houston, which was her top choice school. She then earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a focus in Data Analytics at Louisiana State University. Although her career started in oil and gas, today she serves as a Manager at Collins Aerospace, where she supports cybersecurity strategy and transformation efforts.
Contact: meagan@freshmanbeginnings.org
“At the core, education has always been at the forefront of Meagan’s life. She’s seen how it transcends borders and barriers, while opening doors to endless opportunities.”