Board of Trustees – The Dream Come True Foundation

Board of

Trustees

Meet the Dream Come True Foundation - South Texas Board

Dynyel Miller, Vice President

Melinda Dynyel Miller is currently an Executive Director for three federally funded TRIO programs and works for the Family Centered Educational Agency, a non-profit agency that is federally funded by the US Department of Education. Their programs work with both youth and non-traditional students in ensuring they graduate from high school and enroll into college. Additionally, these programs assist students in obtaining their GED and assistance with the college readiness process, such as college applications and financial aid. Prior to this position, Dynyel was the Executive Director for the Office of Student Access at Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK). Having been in this field for over 19 years, Dynyel is passionate about working with students and helping them succeed in their educational trajectory. Dynyel is currently in the process of completing her doctoral degree in Bilingual Education at TAMUK. She is also married with two daughters.

Jackie Ilse, Treasurer

Jackie Ilse has been in community banking for more than 30 years serving in various roles and communities in Texas. She currently serves Kleberg Bank as their Chief Risk Manager and has been at the Bank for the last 16 years of her career. Jackie has served various community organizations over the years as a member and leader. She currently serves as a financial minister for the Kingsville Church of Christ. Jackie has a passion for helping others be successful and is one of the organizing members of the Dream Come True Foundation - South Texas organization.

Martha Ramirez, Secretary

Martha Ramirez retired from Kingsville Independent School District in June 2024. She has a bachelor's degree in English, a Master's degree in Counseling, and an Administrator and Superintendent Certificate. During her time with KISD, she served as the District Career and Technical Director. Now that Martha is retired, she feels like she has been called to volunteer and wants to work for the betterment of the community. Her personal aspiration is to provide opportunities to others to accomplish their goals by financial assistance, removing barriers, and mentorship.

Jennifer Lynn Rodriguez

Jennifer Lynn Rodriguez is an Executive Director of Brush Country CASA, a non-profit organization which provides trained and qualified community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of children as a result of child abuse and neglect. Jennifer has over 10 years’ experience working with children and has a passion to help children and families. Born and raised in Kingsville, Texas, Jennifer graduated from Texas A&M University - Kingsville with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, and a Master of Science in Sociology. In addition to working with the Dream Come True Foundation - South Texas, Jennifer works closely with several civic organizations within the community and was a 2018 Leadership Kingsville participant.

Wilva West

Wilva West is a lifelong resident of Kingsville. She has an associate degree in finance and worked 17 years in banking, holding numerous titles and banking certifications including VP Loan Officer. After her career in mortgage lending, Wilva along with her husband Marty, acquired JNH Enterprises, Inc. JNH consists of four retail stores in Kingsville and Alice. Being a business owner has allowed her the ability to take an active role with a number of local organizations including a board member of the Kingsville Chamber of Commerce, The Woman’s Club of Kingsville, The HMK Cheerleading Booster

Veronica Hinojosa

Veronica L. Hinojosa is from Lyford, TX. Since 2019 she has served as the Director for TRIO Programs, Student Support Services-STEM and Talent Search at Texas A&M University Kingsville. SSS-STEM is a program designed to increase the retention and graduation rate for students that are first generation, low-income, or have a disability. Talent Search’s goals is to increase the number of students from disadvantaged backgrounds who graduate from high school and enroll in and complete postsecondary education. Veronica graduated from TAMUK with her bachelor’s degree in 2007 and her Master’s degree in 2013. She was a middle school Science teacher and athletic coach for 5 years before moving into administration and becoming an assistant principal. Focusing on providing the whole student, resources needed to be successful has been her philosophy as an educator. She is excited to be a part of the Dream Come True Foundation and share her knowledge that she has gained in her 17 years in education.

Aaron Trevino

Aaron Treviño is the current Brooks County Commissioner for Precinct 4, a former City Council member of Falfurrias, and now serves as Secretary Clerk for the City of Premont. He is also a past Career Navigator in Falfurrias. A proud graduate of Texas A&M University–Kingsville, he holds a Bachelor’s in Criminology, and he earned his Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). Dedicated to public service and community growth, Aaron has worked through coalitions, partnerships, and local initiatives to improve infrastructure, support families, and bring resources to Brooks County. He is also recognized as one of our own Dream Achievers, a foundation he credits for shaping his success and inspiring his commitment to help others. Known as a mentor and coalition-builder, Aaron continues to inspire while remaining committed to fairness, transparency, and opportunity for all.

J. Dean Craig

J. Dean Craig is the Assistant County Attorney for Kleberg County. He handles all misdemeanor cases, including domestic violence offenses, juvenile felony cases, mental health commitments, county contracts, as well as advises county leadership, and pursues protective orders for victims of violence. A returned United States Peace Corps Volunteer, he continues to dedicate his time assisting others and holds leadership positions in several local community organizations. He has proudly served twice as mentor for The Dream Come True Foundation—South Texas and is now excited to be a part of the Board.