SSD is excited to welcome two new full time staff members to the SSD Team!
Jamie Coughlin, Assistive Technology and Testing Coordinator
Jamie Coughlin was born in California and raised in Colorado, she has lived in Texas for over 10 years. While attending UT San Antonio, she spent time working as a Student Coordinator for the Adaptive Testing Center and completed her degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Special Education. Her experience in secondary and post-secondary education has provided opportunities to understand the unique population she is motivated to serve. She is passionate about advocating on campus for students who deserve equal access to educational resources through assistive technology and testing. During her spare time she rides around town with her small under bite rescue dog, Yodi.
Marisa Ortega, Disabilities Services Coordinator
Marisa Ortega is from Dallas, Texas. Marisa is a two-time graduate from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work. During her undergraduate and graduate years, Marisa completed two internships, studied abroad in London, England, took part in the IE program, was active in organizations on campus and grew passionate about self-advocacy, inclusion, and equality. She had the opportunity to intern for SSD and fell in love with the work and the population she served. Marisa is a first-generation college graduate who values education, helping others, and living life to its fullest. Marisa spent the last two years working for the non-profit, Communities in Schools of the Dallas Region and married her childhood friend. During her free time, Marisa enjoys taking walks with her dog, listening to podcasts, embarking on adventures, and spending time with loved ones.