Who We Are
Brenna Nopenz
Transition and Employment Specialist
Brenna Nopenz is a Transition and Employment Specialist with the Post-Secondary Apprenticeship for Youth (PAY Check). They have experience working in postsecondary vocational training as well as New Orleans high school special education programs. As a PAY Check Transition and Employment Specialist, Brenna provides quality job coaching and specialized, hands-on work training for each unique individual. Brenna aims to show young adults a path to meaningful employment and community involvement by teaching self-advocacy and self-determination.
Tracy O'Donnell
PAY Check Coordinator
Tracy O’Donnell has 20 years’ experience as an educator: Biology teacher, special education teacher, instructional coach, interventionist, and IEP facilitator. She earned a +30 (towards PhD) in Educational Leadership at University of Louisiana Monroe, a Master of Special Education from Southeastern Louisiana University, and a Bachelor of Science from University of Holy Cross, New Orleans. Tracy loves helping teachers create fun and inclusive learning environments for all diverse learners!
She spends her free time at home in the Faubourg St. John neighborhood of New Orleans with her husband (Doctor Gumbo), 2 youngest children (Sally and Fionn), and their AmStaff rescue dog (Elsa). Or, you can find her family traveling to spend time with their 2 adult girls (Susan and Layla), both in college. Susan is an LSU grad currently attending the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine (GEAUX TIGERS!), and Layla attends Texas A&M in Galveston (GIG ‘EM!). Tracy also loves working with her plants, checking out new restaurants, and traveling the world.