Katawna Stephens serves the GEAR UP O+K=C team as a College Coach in Oklahoma City Public Schools. In this role, she follows the Check & Connect Student Engagement Intervention Model in mentoring students who need additional support to help them achieve consistent school attendance and academic success. She works directly with families, school staff, and community service providers to connect students to resources and remove barriers, with the long-term goal of preparation for post-secondary education. Katawna previously served as the Parent Engagement Coordinator for Oklahoma City Public Schools. She has also worked in juvenile justice in Oklahoma County. Katawna is a proud aunt and enjoys volunteering with various organizations in the Oklahoma City community.

Katawna holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, specializing in juveniles, from Prairie View A&M University, as well as a Master of Education degree, specializing in Urban Education, from Langston University.