CDEC Program Coordinator and  Assistant Professor, Trena Rider

Trena Rider is an Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator for Child Development/Early Childhood. She graduated from Texas Tech in 1998 with a degree in Early Childhood Education. In 2013, she received a Master’s Degree in Education from West Texas A&M. Her educational experience includes work in early childhood labs, pre-school and elementary classrooms, middle school math and social studies, and coaching.   From 2010 to 2014, she ran the Intramural Sports Program, then the Mentoring Program at Amarillo College. Trena is excited to share her experience and love of children with our students at AC.

Office Phone: (806) 371-5279
Email: tjrider21@actx.edu

Success Coach, Tania Fuentes

Tania Fuentes is the Success Coach for the Education and Child Development programs at Amarillo College. Born and raised in Amarillo, Texas, she graduated from Palo Duro High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Corrections from West Texas A&M University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Victim Services Management at Sam Houston State University. Tania began her journey in higher education as a student worker and Peer Mentor for the TRIO programs, College Talent Search and Upward Bound, at WTAMU. She went on to serve as a Safe House Advocate with Family Support Services, supporting individuals escaping domestic violence and human trafficking. She later returned to WTAMU as a full-time Outreach Advisor for the TRIO College Talent Search Program, helping high school students prepare for higher education. Now at Amarillo College, Tania brings over 10 years of combined experience in higher education and social work/case management to her role, where she is committed to guiding students through their academic journeys and helping them apply what they’ve learned to succeed beyond the classroom. Her approach centers on personalized support, fostering critical thinking, and empowering students to reach their full potential.

Office Phone: (806) 371-5084
Email: tvfuentes@actx.edu

Administrative Assistant, Angelica Bargas

Angelica Bargas is an Administrative Assistant for the Education Department and Child Development Programs. Originally from California, she moved to Texas at a young age and later earned an associate's degree in Business Management from Amarillo College. With valuable experience from working in a middle school, Angelica is enthusiastic about supporting and contributing to the growth and development of future educators.

Office Phone: (806) 345-5585
Email: angelica.bargas@actx.edu

Advisor, Luis Salazar

Luis Salazar is the academic advisor for the Education and Child Development programs at Amarillo College. He traces his journey from Mexico to Southwest Texas Junior College and transferred to Sul Ross State University, where he earned his master's degree in secondary education. During his college years, he dedicated himself to learning the English language, a skill that would prove invaluable in his future endeavors. Following his education, Luis embarked on a decade-long teaching career, imparting knowledge in world history, world geography, and Spanish to high school students. Transitioning into his role as an Academic Advisor at Amarillo College, Luis again immersed himself in the world of education, this time from a different vantage point. His experience as an educator and his journey as a learner inspire his approach to advising students, guiding them on their academic paths with empathy and insight.

Office Phone: (806) 371-5212
Email: lbsalazar21@actx.edu