Mari Harris, Ed.D.
Director of Education Programs, UC Merced PACE
Dr. Harris oversees the Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) preparing single subject and multiple subject candidates for a preliminary teaching credential. In addition, Dr. Harris is an instructor for several TPP courses; Foundations of Teaching and Project Based Learning (PBL). Dr. Harris received her BA and clear multiple subject teaching credential from California State University, Sacramento. Furthermore, Dr. Harris is a graduate of Mills College in Oakland, California where she received her Masters in Staff Development, Clear Administrative Credential and Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
She has more than 25 years in K-12 education as principal, vice-principal, site instructional coordinator and teacher. Dr. Harris taught master’s courses and doctorate courses at Shanghai Normal University in Shanghai, China. She is a lifelong learner and an advocate for 21st Century Culturally Relevant Teaching (CRT). Dr. Harris is passionate about preparing teachers to meet the diverse student population in the Central Valley, and the state of California.
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
-Nelson Mandela
Mayra Franco, B.A.
Credential Analyst and Program Coordinator
Mayra Franco is a dedicated higher education professional with over 20 years of experience as a Credential Analyst, bringing a strong background in student support, program coordination, and educational equity. She holds a double B.A. in Liberal Studies and Central American Studies from CSU Northridge and has completed the Peak Pioneer leadership program at UC Merced.
In 2024, she was nominated and recognized by the Division of Equity, Justice, & Inclusive Excellence for her contributions to fostering an inclusive campus community. That same year, she was also nominated by her peers, supervisor, and campus colleagues for the UC Merced Staff Assembly Excellence Award.
As a first-generation Central American and a full-time working mother of four, Mayra brings a deep understanding of the barriers students face and works passionately to create inclusive pathways for academic and professional success. At UC Merced, she supports teacher credential programs, supervises student assistants, and has taken on leadership roles in planning and executing campus initiatives that promote access to teaching and early childhood careers. She has led cross-departmental collaborations, mentored emerging professionals, and served as a key liaison between faculty, staff, and community partners.
Diana Saucedo-Nunez, M.Ed
Bilingual Added Authorization & CALTPA Coordinator
Diana Saucedo-Nunez was educated in Merced’s public schools and maintains strong ties to the community. She earned her bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from California State University, Stanislaus. She also holds a Clear Multiple Subject Bilingual, Crosscultural, Language and Academic Development (BCLAD) Credential. Additionally, Diana received her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology (LDT) from the University of Southern California.
Diana has over 11 years of teaching experience, having served as both a primary and upper grade classroom teacher in the Merced City School District. She has presented on culturally responsive bilingual education at conferences hosted by the California Association for Bilingual Education (CABE) and the Association of Two-Way & Dual Language Education (ATDLE). Currently, she enjoys her work with the Teacher Preparation Program, where she supports aspiring educators in earning their teaching credentials.
Todd Smeltzer, M.A.
Educational Program Coordinator
Todd Smeltzer is a Central Valley native, with his most recent 12 years in Merced’s various educational systems. He earned his Associates to Transfer from Merced College in Kinesiology, followed by his Bachelors in Exercise Science from Fresno State. He most recently finished his Masters in School Counseling with a Pupil Personnel Service clear credential from UMass Global with a 3.9 GPA, receiving the first MA in his family.
With a highly diversified work history, from retail to agriculture and customer service to janitorial work, Todd has spent his last 10+ years in education. He has held many various positions with Merced City School district, from coach to classroom aide and substitute teacher. More recently, he spent time in local high schools for Merced County Office of Education as a Migrant Counselor, helping migrant students and their families navigate the educational system. He spent time as a Program Coordinator with UC Merced’s Center for Educational Partnerships assisting first gen, low income students with college preparation and A-G completion. As the current Educational Program Coordinator, Todd is excited to learn more of the background work that goes into student success.
