Salt Lake City, Utah

Amber Hesleph

Learning Center Director

Email: ahesleph@usdreamacademy.org

Amber Hesleph is a Utah native who started with the U.S. Dream Academy as a University of Utah Intern, where she majored in sociology, psychology, and criminology. Amber has previously worked at a crisis nursery, a program for youth with autism, and in a girls’ residential facility. 

Amber prides herself on valuing every student, parent, and community member regardless of race, gender, or background. Her passion for human and civil rights, paired with her love for animals, people, food, and nature, is well represented in the Salt Lake City Center. Students often try new foods, work on service community projects, and practice mindfulness. 

Amber also loves watching football and basketball and enjoys playing dodgeball with students and challenging them to try new things. When asked what her favorite thing about being a U.S. Dream Academy staff member was, she responded, “I love the culture I get to create here. Getting to know the students on an individual level and really learn about them makes every day exciting. I have really enjoyed getting close to the parents and families and watching the kids grow from year to year.”

Jasmine McWilliams

Mentor Coordinator

Email: jmcwilliams@usdreamacademy.org 

Jasmine joined the U.S. Dream Academy in 2021 as the mentor coordinator for the Salt Lake City site. Since then, she has played a vital role in advancing our mission to empower young minds. Jasmine holds a bachelor's degree in psychology specializing in childhood trauma, which gives her a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the youth we serve. 

Jasmine's dedication to creating an environment that encourages resilience, curiosity, and self-expression is crucial in our efforts to nurture young individuals. She recognizes the importance of community support in promoting youth development and actively contributes to a nurturing network that helps our young learners achieve their full potential.