Grants Department Team

At Amarillo College’s Grants Department, our dedicated team is here to support the success of grant-funded programs across all campuses. We work closely with faculty, staff, and community partners to ensure projects are compliant, well-managed, and aligned with institutional goals.

From proposal development to post-award oversight, each team member brings unique expertise in compliance, budgeting, reporting, and project coordination. Whether you're new to grants or managing a complex initiative, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Learn more about who we are and how we can help your grant succeed.

picture of Jacqui Jones

Jacqui Jones 

Executive Director of Grant Compliance and Administration

Jacqui brings extensive experience in grant compliance, with a strong background in both audit performance and program management. Through her innovative leadership, the Grants Department has adopted a more holistic approach to compliance, focusing not only on regulatory adherence but also on long-term program success and sustainability.

Phone(806) 371-5203
Emailj0544603@actx.edu 

picture of Jennifer Ashcraft

Jennifer Ashcraft

Grant Compliance Officer

Jennifer brings a strong background in grant management, which has strengthened her expertise in compliance. With years of dedication to Amarillo College and a deep commitment to the success of grant-funded programs, Jennifer plays a key role in ensuring projects remain compliant and aligned with institutional goals.

Phone(806) 345-5508
Emailjlashcraft@actx.edu  

picture of MaryAnn Gomez

MaryAnn Gomez

Grant Compliance Officer

MaryAnn's pharmaceutical background in processing approvals and navigating regulatory requirements provides her with strong compliance expertise, which she now applies as Grant Compliance Officer. Her ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously strengthens the team's capacity to ensure grant adherence to federal and state requirements, enhancing overall accountability and risk management.

Phone(806) 345-5554
Emailmegomez23@actx.edu  

picture of Taya Mamba

Taya Mamba

Director of Perkins

Taya brings extensive knowledge from the pre-award phase and grant compliance, which has contributed to her success in serving as the Perkins Director. Her experience ensures that grants are strategically developed and effectively managed from start to finish.

Phone(806) 371-5073
Emailtlmamba@actx.edu  

picture of Denise Velarde

Denise Velarde

Grant Specialist

Denise brings valuable paralegal experience with strong skills in contract management, documentation, and client relations. Her attention to detail and expertise in legal workflows enhance compliance and accuracy across grant contracts. Her customer service background supports effective stakeholder communication and high-quality grant service delivery.

Phone(806) 371-5927
Emaildrvelarde@actx.edu