Juanita Edwards, Director
(850) 484-2533
jedwards@pensacolastate.edu
Juanita Edwards began working as the TRIO Educational Talent Search Program Director in 2018. Prior to joining the ETS Team, she was employed by the Escambia County School District for 35 years, where she served as a school administrator, administrative dean, guidance counselor, and high school English teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Florida State University, a master’s degree in school counseling from Troy State University, and certification in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida.
Jurnee French, Student Services Specialist
(850) 484-1678
jfrench@pensacolastate.edu
Jurnee French began working at TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2026 as our Student Services Specialist. She attended Baker School and received a bachelor’s degree in English liberal arts with a minor in education from the University of West Florida. Prior to this position, she served as our Tutoring Lab Manager for four years. She has also previously served as Writing Lab Manager at the University of West Florida.
Elena Laufer, Student Services Specialist
(850) 484-1445
elaufer@pensacolastate.edu
Elena Laufer joined TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2026 as a Student Services Specialist. Prior to joining the ETS team, she worked with the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center, assisting individuals with educational and career planning. Elena brings years of experience in vocational assessment, career counseling, work-readiness training, job development, and job placement through the Florida Department of Education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Washington & Jefferson College and a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. As a Certified Vocational Evaluator and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Elena is dedicated to helping students overcome barriers, explore educational opportunities, and achieve their academic and career goals.
James Ellis, Student Services Specialist
(850) 484-1693
jaellis@pensacolastate.edu
James Ellis began working with TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2026 as a Student Services Specialist. Prior to joining the team, he worked with TRIO Student Support Services at the University of West Florida, where he supported students through academic, career, and personal coaching and helped coordinate student programs and services. James earned a bachelor’s degree in health and sports science and a master’s degree in adult education and administration from Northwestern Oklahoma State University. He also has experience in multimedia production, sports media, and working with students and student-athletes.
Kayla Uram, Recruitment/Retention Specialist and Administrative Assistant
(850) 484-1620
kuram@pensacolastate.edu
Kayla Uram joined TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2020 as the Recruitment & Retention Specialist. Prior to joining the team, she worked as a manager in the University of West Florida Writing Lab. She holds a bachelor’s degree in general studies with minors in hospitality and health promotion from the University of West Florida. During her time with ETS, Kayla has coordinated tutoring services and managed a variety of administrative, recruitment, and retention initiatives. She has also completed professional development training in leadership, management, office administration, customer service, and communication.
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