Meet the Team

Meet the staff and AmeriCorps leaders who support 4-H CAPITAL programs and help deliver hands-on science learning experiences to youth across Travis County. 

4-H CAPITAL is supported by a team of staff and AmeriCorps leaders who bring diverse backgrounds, experiences, and interests to youth programming. Together, they create engaging, project-based learning environments that support student growth, curiosity, and community connection. 

4-H CAPITAL Staff 

Our staff work together to lead programming, support instructors, and ensure high-quality learning experiences for youth across Travis County.  

Mary Bolden 
AmeriCorps Project Manager 
Mary Bolden has been with 4-H CAPITAL for six years and oversees the AmeriCorps grant program. She ensures compliance with program requirements and supports members in building meaningful professional experiences through their service. Mary believes that true leadership is key. 
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou  

Davis Garcia 
Animal Science and Natural Resources Project Manager 
Davis Garcia has an agricultural background based on experience and ensures that Title I students have the tools and knowledge to succeed in programs such as the Market Goat program. His two years of service as an AmeriCorps member equip him to mentor and lead instructors in the afterschool classroom. He is passionate about providing students with a strong foundation in agricultural knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills. These experiences support his ability to maintain and grow the program to meet community needs. 

Phaedra Koonz 
AmeriCorps Project Coordinator 
Phaedra Koonz has been with 4-H CAPITAL since 2019 and serves as the AmeriCorps Project Coordinator. In this role, she recruits, trains, and supports AmeriCorps members throughout their term of service. Having completed three different AmeriCorps terms across two programs, she is committed to helping members gain meaningful experiences and move confidently into their future.  

Annabel Almeida 
Administration and Finance Coordinator 
Annabel Almeida is a Social Services Program Specialist and has been with Travis County 4-H CAPITAL since 2015. She manages the organization’s accounting and financial operations, along with program planning and development. 
“I’m dedicated and passionate in serving the community I work and live in.” 

Melody Cagle Brown 
Curriculum Specialist 
Melody Cagle Brown served two years as an AmeriCorps member with 4-H CAPITAL before becoming the Natural Resources Specialist in June 2021. In this role, she leads AmeriCorps members in developing hands-on natural resources activities that encourage students to explore and learn in outdoor environments. She also manages the program’s social media platforms, sharing updates about the 4-H CAPITAL team. Melody is passionate about nature education and works to expand access so more people can learn to respect and engage with the natural world. 

Florence Thompson 
Office Specialist 
Florence Thompson was born and raised in Austin and was educated through Austin ISD and St. Edward’s University. Her professional background includes experience in finance and customer service. She has three adult children and three grandchildren. Florence enjoys learning new things and is always willing to help others. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, crafting, and spending time with her grandchildren. 

AmeriCorps Instructors 

AmeriCorps instructors are a vital part of 4-H CAPITAL. They lead science clubs, support youth learning, and bring energy and creativity into the classroom. 
Instructors come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, helping the program grow and adapt each year. Their work plays a key role in delivering hands-on, project-based learning opportunities across Travis County. 

Additional Resources