Meet The Team

Raised in Central Texas, Brent’s journey into international education began with a dual passion for Spanish linguistics and environmental conservation. After double-majoring in Field Biology and Spanish Linguistics at the University of Texas at Austin, he went on to earn an MBA in International Business from St. Edward’s University. An Eagle Scout and a natural guide, Brent spent his early years as a counselor at the prestigious Philmont Scout Ranch—a background that honed his leadership and safety skills.

Having lived and directed student programs in Argentina, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Spain for over 14 years, Brent is an expert in navigating the logistical and cultural nuances of study abroad. He is dedicated to sharing transformative cultural experiences with students, often combining his love for the outdoors—hiking, biking, and paddle boarding—with immersive language learning.

A native of Cádiz, Spain, Alejandro brings a profound academic and cultural perspective to the Arcos leadership team. With degrees in Law and Political Science from the Universidad de Granada, and an M.A. in Spanish Literature from CUA in Washington, D.C., his expertise ensures that our cultural curriculum is both rigorous and deeply insightful. Alejandro’s own journey as a high school exchange student in Tennessee gives him a unique "insider-outsider" perspective, allowing him to act as a true ambassador for students navigating the Spanish language and lifestyle. 

An endurance athlete and outdoorsman, Alejandro applies the same dedication to program development as he does to swimming and cycling. He is a firm believer that language cannot be separated from culture, and he is committed to ensuring every Arcos participant experiences the "living language" of his home country.

A passionate advocate for experiential learning, Janiva brings over 15 years of experience facilitating transformational journeys across the globe. From leading study abroad and gap year programs in over a dozen countries to co-founding a project-based bilingual school in Costa Rica, Janiva’s career is rooted in the belief that travel is the ultimate catalyst for personal growth. She holds a degree in Latin American Studies from Pomona College and spent over a decade as a Resident Director in Costa Rica, where she spearheaded community-impact projects in public health and environmental conservation.

An international speaker and workshop facilitator, Janiva bridges the gap between traditional education and real-world application. Whether she is trekking to Machu Picchu or practicing yoga on the banks of the Ganges, Janiva embodies the curious, global spirit that Arcos seeks to instill in every student.

An Austin native and a graduate of Texas A&M University, Elisha holds a degree in International Studies with an emphasis in Communication and Media Studies. Her career in international education was inspired by her own transformative experience as an alumna of our program in Oaxaca, Mexico. Having lived the journey firsthand, Elisha still maintains close ties with her Oaxacan host family and friends, giving her a deep, personal understanding of the lifelong impact of cultural immersion.

As Operations Manager, Elisha channels her passion into helping students step out of their comfort zones and explore new worldviews. Her firsthand knowledge and dedication to student communication make her an invaluable resource for families as they prepare for their own life-changing adventures.