At Baker College Prep, college is more than just a destination— it’s a journey— and every student has a team of passionate, dedicated adults helping them navigate the way. The college team at Baker is made up of individuals who are not only deeply committed to student success but also bring their lived experiences, professional expertise, and heart into every interaction. This week, we’re spotlighting three key members of that team: Selena Dixon, Sharon Callico-Blackmon, and Justin Harris.

Selena Dixon is in her fourth year at Noble and serves as the dean of college counseling at Baker College Prep. A proud graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago with a degree in African American studies, Dixon has always been passionate about guiding students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, toward the life-changing opportunities that higher education can offer.

In her role, Dixon provides one-on-one support with college applications, connects students with scholarships and fly-in programs (free overnight college visits), and facilitates college fairs and visits from admissions representatives. She’s a bridge between students’ dreams and the reality of achieving them.

“I guide high school students to help them access opportunities that align with their goals,” Dixon explains.

What brought her to this work? A call from a colleague and Baker’s alumni counselor, Justin Harris, who knew she had the passion and skill to make a difference— and she did. As a Black girl from the hood, she never imagined being called back to serve her own community—but that’s exactly what happened. She cares deeply about the youth, leading with the same passion and commitment she would want others to have for her own child. Teaching wasn’t part of her original plan; it wasn’t a career she chose—it was a calling she answered.

One of her most memorable moments came during her first year running the Summer of a Lifetime program.

“I had no idea how deeply it would impact me,” She reflected. “Watching 31 scholars experience college life, many for the first time, showed me the power of exposure and opportunity… When my scholars returned, I saw something incredible in them: hope, inspiration, and drive. That transformation is why I do this work. This is my calling.”

Her words of wisdom to students? “You do not have to be a product of your environment. The road to success isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Practice patience, stay the course, be kind—and goodness will follow you.”

Justin Harris rounds out the college team as Baker’s alumni counselor—essentially the navigator for alumni as they transition from high school into college and beyond. A graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a degree in communication studies, Harris has been at Noble for five years.

Prior to joining the team, Harris spent 13 years in higher education as an online academic advisor at Caplin University.

“We would get students on the phone—and there was a huge gap. What was missed was the early support,” He said about his time there. “I realized I could make a deeper impact working directly with high school students from underserved backgrounds. Helping them from the beginning of their journey sets them up for success long before they step foot on a college campus.”

That realization drove him to shift his focus from higher ed to the front lines of K-12 education.

Now, Harris supports Baker alumni as they matriculate through college, providing mentorship, resources, and advice at critical moments. He also brings back insights from his work with alumni to better support current students. To Harris, guidance and support shouldn’t begin at graduation—it should start in 9th grade.

His favorite part? Hearing from students as they prepare to graduate college. “They reflect on the journey, and they’re so appreciative of the support I was able to give—especially when they felt like no one else could help,” Harris said.

His advice to high school students? “Trust the process, stay patient, and see the bigger picture. This is your stepping stone to changing not just your life, but your family’s future.”