Connecting People to Service,
Leadership, and Community

Emily Smith

Emily graduated with a Public Relations degree from the University of Central Oklahoma, and has called Lubbock home since 2008. She is married to Scott, who’s in the mortgage business, and she has a lively crew with their kids: Gray, Mac, Ryder, and our grown-up bunch, Bryce, Montine, Alyssa, and Zach.
Emily has been with the Volunteer Center on and off since 2009 and rejoined the team in 2024, and she couldn’t be happier to turn her passion for volunteering into her day job! Before that, she spent 9 years building a real estate business.When she is not working she is busy with PTA board duties, traveling, enjoying great food, or just hanging out with her favorite people.

Hanne-Lise Parker

Hanne-Lise grew up in Austin & came to Lubbock after highschool to attend Texas Tech University. She has deep roots in West Texas. Her Great Grandfather, Dr. M.C. Overton moved to Lubbock in 1901 - where he would be one of the first physicians in the area. She met her husband Jay & they moved a couple times before returning to Lubbock in 2010 and made Lubbock their forever home. Since then she's been involved in several volunteer programs including The Junior League of Lubbock and National Charity League. PTA is a BIG passion of Hanne-Lise & she has served in many roles including President of all three schools that her kiddos have attended. When she's not at work you will find her cheering on her daughter and son from the stands, rooting for the Red Raiders or sitting on a beach!

Ashlyn Rowe

Ashlyn Rowe was born in Junction, Texas, and spent the majority of her childhood growing up in Lubbock. She graduated from Southcrest Christian School, which started her excitement and passion for serving and giving back to the community. Ashlyn attended and earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas Tech University and spent five years working in education, where she developed a passion for supporting students, building meaningful relationships, and creating positive experiences for youth.

She serves as the Youth Program Manager at the Volunteer Center of Lubbock, where she is passionate about connecting youth with meaningful volunteer opportunities and building lasting community partnerships. Outside of work, Ashlyn enjoys baking, growing her photography business, and spending time with her husband, their two Goldendoodles, and family and friends.

Kayla Thrasher

Kayla was born and raised in Lubbock. After graduating from Coronado High School, she went on to get her degree at Texas Tech University. There she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Electronic Media and Communication. Kayla started as an intern at the Volunteer Center, and now works full time doing all things communications and operations. As a Lubbock native, she is excited to give back to the city and help it thrive.

In her down time, Kayla enjoys traveling and all things outdoors with her husband, Brandt, and her dog, Colt.

Doak Sexton

Doak is a student at Lubbock Christian University pursuing a degree in Law Studies and plans to graduate in 2029. Born and raised in Lubbock, he recently graduated from Coronado High School, where he served in various student leadership roles. Doak has been involved with the Volunteer Center of Lubbock through the Summer Fellow program, Youth for Impact, and the HYPE program.

At Lubbock Christian University, he is active in the Honors College, Alpha Chi Delta, and Student Senate. In his free time, Doak enjoys playing golf, exploring cultural experiences, and connecting with friends.

As the Operations Assistant, Doak is eager to serve the Volunteer Center and help ensure that all aspects of VCL function smoothly. He is thankful to be a part of such an outstanding team, where he knows he will gain many long-lasting skills.

Ella Vasquez

Ella was born in Waco, TX and raised in Lubbock. She has attended Frenship ISD through middle school and graduated from FHS in 2025. As a Gen Z summer fellow, Ella loves expressing her creativity through her carefully curated social media posts and can’t wait to do more for the Volunteer Center of Lubbock!

Ella is a lover of Halloween, books, baking, and all things Harry Potter. She currently owns two twin brother black cats named Bear and Boo.