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.

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.

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!

Aly Albidrez

Aly is a senior at Texas Tech University, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Sociology. She will graduate in December 2025. Originally from Odessa, Texas, she graduated in the top 5% of her class at Permian High School while simultaneously earning her Associate’s degree through dual credit from Odessa College.

She is actively involved in the Texas Tech Social Work Student Organization, Pi Beta Phi, Stumo, IABC The Way, and Hillside College Ministry. After earning her degree, Aly plans to pursue a Master’s in Public Administration, aiming to further her impact in nonprofit work and public service. In her free time, she runs a photography business and enjoys cooking, baking, arts and crafts, running, and spending time with friends.

Noah McClure

Noah is a student at Texas A&M University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Engineering with plans to continue into graduate school after graduating in 2028. A Lubbock native and graduate of Monterey High School, he served as Senior Class President and Salutatorian of the Class of 2024. During high school, Noah was actively involved in the Volunteer Center of Lubbock through programs like HYPE and Youth for Impact, and served as a Youth Board Member from 2023–2024.

At Texas A&M, Noah continues his passion for leadership, service, and STEM as a member of the Aggie Recruitment Committee, a Staff Assistant for The Big Event—the nation’s largest one-day, student-run service event—and a marketing team member for the Texas A&M Formula Electric racing team. Outside of school, he enjoys graphic design, Aggie sports, and playing pickleball, disc golf, and tennis with friends.

Doak Sexton

Doak recently graduated from Coronado High School and will begin attending Lubbock Christian University in the fall. He joins the Volunteer Center of Lubbock as a Summer Fellow, excited to contribute to the organization's mission and gain hands-on experience in service and community engagement.

With a strong interest in leadership and growth, Doak looks forward to learning from the work of the Volunteer Center while giving back to the Lubbock community throughout the summer.

Caroline Hensley

Caroline is a graduate of All Saints Episcopal School and an incoming student at Texas Tech University, where she plans to pursue a degree in psychology on a Pre-Medicine track. She first connected with the Volunteer Center of Lubbock as an officer with Youth for Impact during her senior year and continues to support the organization’s mission of community connection and youth leadership.

As a Summer Fellow, Caroline is focused on sharing the story of the Volunteer Center and promoting youth volunteerism throughout the Lubbock area.

Gretchen Minnix-Pekowski

Gretchen is a recent graduate of Lubbock High School, where she earned certifications as a Patient Care Technician and Phlebotomist. She will attend the College of Charleston in the fall to study biology, with plans to become a physician assistant.

Gretchen has been involved with the Volunteer Center of Lubbock throughout high school, beginning with youth programs and later serving as an officer for Youth for Impact. This summer, she joins the team as a Summer Volunteering Intern, overseeing Projects in a Box and Summer Family Volunteering. Gretchen’s passion for service began at a young age through park cleanups and Meals on Wheels, and she continues to serve her community with energy and heart. In her free time, she enjoys baking, running, sewing, and spending time outdoors with loved ones.