Denise Necoechea, Associate Dean, Educational Access Center - Traditional Undergraduate (TUG) Students
Dr. Necoechea is dedicated to advancing disability accessibility, equity, and inclusion in higher education. With over 30 years of experience in disability studies, inclusive programming, and special education, she currently serves as Associate Dean of the EAC Traditional Undergraduate Programs. In addition to her administrative role, Dr. Necoechea oversees the Disability Studies Certificate program, coordinates the Peer Mentor Program, and serves as Associate Professor in the School of Education. Beyond her work at PLNU, Dr. Necoechea has shared her expertise for more than 15 years through service on the boards of non-profit organizations focused on disability employment, diversity, representation in children’s literature, social inclusion, and international inclusive programming in developing nations.
Pamela Harris, Associate Dean, Educational Access Center - Campus Accessibility
Dr. Harris is the Associate Dean of Campus Accessibility. She oversees Graduate and AUG programs across campuses. She has 35 years of experience educating and advocating for people with disabilities. She worked as a PreK - grade 12 special education teacher and testing specialist for 15 years before she became a professor of Special Education in 2006. Prior to joining the faculty at PLNU, Dr. Harris trained hundreds of general and special education teachers to utilize high-impact instructional strategies for students with learning, attention, and emotional regulation challenges. She is passionate about promoting equal access for students in and out of the classroom.
Sabrina Mathisen, Senior Manager of Student Life for TUG Students
Sabrina is the EAC Senior Manager of Student Life on the Point Loma Campus. She is passionate about advocating for accessibility and equal opportunities for people with disabilities. She is a PLNU alumnus and has worked in the disability field for 8 years in a variety of settings from the classroom to the community. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Cross Disciplinary Studies with a concentration in human development and special education and a California Educational Specialist teaching credential.
Ty Burdette, Manager of Academics for TUG Students
Ty is the EAC Manager of Academics and is driven by functioning in hard-working, team-centered environments. Prior to joining the EAC, his career experiences were within the industries of hospitality, customer service, and event management. A PLNU alumnus, Ty graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Marketing in 2023.
Amber Mirko, Manager of Academics for Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) Students & Academic Coach
Amber is the EAC Manager of Academics for GPS students on the Point Loma Campus, who has a deep desire to help every person see their potential and work in collaborative, people-centered environments. She has spent 6 years working with adults with disabilities with a focus on supporting them to achieve maximum independence. Amber graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a minor in Counseling and Social change.
Kaylee Ryan, Manager of Academics for Accelerated Undergraduates (AUG) Students & Academic Coach
Kaylee is the Manager of Academics for AUG students, who has a passion for empowering individuals with disabilities. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from PLNU in 2024, she gained hands-on experience working in special education settings and supporting students with diverse needs across school environments. With a heart for service, she is committed to creating inclusive, supportive spaces where every individual is valued and given tools to thrive.
Carrie Gunn, Registered Dietitian
Carrie provides recommendations to EAC staff on appropriate dietary accommodations. She works with our meal services department to create healthy and safe meals for EAC registered students with medically specialized diets.