Founder's Story
Gateway Educational Services was established in 2009 by educators, business professionals and community leaders passionate about changing access to education and the ways in which students learn. Founders Audrey Gamble and Connie Alexander saw the real need for equity in educational spaces, due to continued disparities for students of color. They made it their focus and mission to create a learning community that would address these disparities and give students and families the support they need to thrive academically, while making college attendance a reality.
What began with a card table and four chairs sixteen years ago, has now grown into two thriving learning centers in Santa Barbara and Lompoc. Gateway Educational Services supports and uplifts students and their families holistically through assessment-based tutoring, leadership development and college preparation. As Santa Barbara’s only non-profit learning center, a State of California approved Supplemental Services provider, Gateway has provided services for over 1,000 students and over 100 underrepresented students to be accepted to colleges and universities through its College Readiness Program.
Meet The Founders
Connie Alexander
Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director
Connie Alexander has been Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of Gateway Educational Services since 2009. She has 30 years of experience in education including teaching and student services. She holds degrees in Political Science and History. Her role with Gateway includes daily operations, curriculum development, training and the College Readiness Program and Summer Camps.
Connie is a facilitator, trainer and motivational speaker.
Audrey Gamble
Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director
Audrey Gamble has been Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director for Gateway Educational Services since 2009. She has 22 years of experience in business and finance. She holds a B.A degree in Business and Education from Antioch University. Her role with Gateway includes daily operations, business development, Finances and training.
The Independent: A Gateway for First-Gen College Students
Gateway Educational Services is a nonprofit in Santa Barbara founded in 2009 by Connie Alexander and Audrey Gamble. They created a College Readiness Program in 2013 to help first-generation students of color get into four-year colleges and graduate with minimal debt. Services include ACT/SAT prep, application help, campus visits, and mentoring — all on a sliding fee scale with full scholarships available. Of the 200+ students they've sent to college, 98% graduated in four years. Their approach focuses on involving parents, leveraging dual-enrollment credits, and building confidence through peer and mentor relationships.