Whether through a swimming lesson, an art class, or simply a smile, each day the Tucson J staff brightens the lives of our members and guests. We are proud of the variety of skills and stories that our staff bring to their work, and celebrate this each week through our Facebook and Instagram “Staff Spotlight” series.
Continue reading on for a preview of our March spotlights, and check out the full posts at all @tucsonjcc accounts!
Inti Salinas | Basketball Coordinator
Learn more about Inti and his basketball coaching philosophy in this video!
Dyana Martin | ECE Teacher
“Hello, my name is Dyana. I’ve been at the J for almost a year and carry around 12 years of childcare experience. My love for childcare stems deep within me, as I was a daycare child myself and was inspired by my own teachers’ love and guidance throughout my life. I chose childcare because working with young children feels meaningful and grounding to me.
As a mom, I understand how important it is to know that your child is safe, cared for, and truly seen. I love being part of children’s early growth and watching them build confidence, independence, and trust in the world around them. I love creating a nurturing environment where children feel supported, and it’s something I care deeply about, and of course, it’s rewarding to play a small role in those early experiences.”
Morgan Montague | JRays Swim School Coordinator
Q: Tell us about your swimming background and role at the J!
A: I have competitively trained in swimming since I was 5 years old, eventually joining the @tjccstingrays in 2012, then teaching lessons in 2016. I help organize and coordinate all the swim lessons at the J, group lessons and privates, and I teach as well!
Q: Why is it important for all children to understand water safety and learn to swim?
A: Tucson is a unique place in terms of swimming; we live in a desert, yet there is a pool in every other backyard and community pools almost everywhere you look. This means simply for safety purposes, everyone should learn how to swim and know how to be safe around large bodies of water. And when it’s 110°, where else would you want to be other than in a pool?
Q: What is your favorite part about your role at the J?
A: My favorite part is definitely teaching. Seeing the joy and understanding light up the face of one of my swimmers… best experience ever!
Diana Ramirez | DPS Transition to Work Instructor
Q: Tell us about your background and role at the J!
A: I have a background in Pedagogy and Neuropsychology and have always been passionate about helping others thrive through education and inclusivity. I’m excited to take on this role within DPS, providing support to our participants, creating meaningful experiences, and making a positive impact in our community.
Q: Favorite item for sale at the JShop Retail Store or Coffee Cart?
A: The Coffee! We partner with local roasters, Adventure Coffee, and it’s delicious. The Chapstick is also a favorite of mine.
Q: What are you most looking forward to as you get deeper into your role?
A: I’m excited to contribute to the growth of the program and see our interns learn new skills and thrive in their roles. It’s really rewarding to watch people gain confidence, build independence, and discover what they’re capable of, and I’m looking forward to supporting that journey.
