Dr. Shameram “Shammy” Karim

Executive Director
karims@stancounty.com
Joined First 5 Stanislaus in 2022

Dr. Karim comes to First 5 Stanislaus with a background in elementary education, organizational leadership and development, and human resources. Her work experience has ranged from an elementary classroom teacher, school site administrator, district superintendent, and human resources leader. Shammy’s work has focused on working with the underserved and second language communities. She has a doctorate in Organizational Leadership, a M.A. in Education, and B.A. in Social Science. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, serving the community, and reading.


Jasmine Gutierrez

Staff Services & Marketing Coordinator
gutierrezj@stancounty.com
Joined First 5 Stanislaus in 2024

Jasmine comes to First 5 Stanislaus with a background in marketing, community outreach, accounting, and strategic management. She is bilingual in Spanish and is passionate about making a difference in her community. Her career with Stanislaus County began as a college intern, and she worked her way up to a staff services & marketing coordinator. Jasmine holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in Business Administration from California State University Stanislaus. She enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, spending time with family, and serving her community.


Veronica Ascencio

Accountant III
ascenciove@stancounty.com
Joined First 5 Stanislaus in 2016

Veronica Ascencio is bilingual in Spanish and comes to us with a background in auditing, evaluation of internal controls, technical accounting, and budget. Her career with the County started with her working her way up through the entry level of the accounting job series to the highest level of Accountant III. Her experience has ranged from an accounting clerk with probation, accountant I in property tax collection, an accountant I as an internal auditor, an accountant II calculating the property tax roll and working with special districts in Stanislaus County. Prior to her county career, Veronica worked in administration for a migrant head start. It was her experience with head start and providing a service to early education and development that led her to First 5 Stanislaus. Veronica enjoys gardening, cooking, and gathering with her family, and she is always eager to help those in need.


Sonia Ramirez

Confidential IV
ramirezs@stancounty.com

Sonia comes to First 5 with extensive Business Management and Human Resources experience. Being Modesto born and raised has made serving the community a passion and being part of First 5 allows for a direct connection in serving the local community. Sonia’s Human Resources profession brings experience in management, recruiting, training, employee relations and labor relations. Sonia is bilingual in Spanish and is very thankful for the opportunity to be part of the First 5 team. When Sonia is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her two grandchildren, outdoor activities, and writing.