GEAR UP Staff

Andrea Covert, GEAR UP Regional Director

Andrea holds a Master in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska Omaha and a B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming. Andrea has been with the GEAR UP team for several years and has spent over a decade assisting students in their preparations for college and beyond. In her spare time, Andrea loves relaxing with her beautiful puppies, reading, cooking, and spending time with her friends and family.

Heidi Galagan, GEAR UP Case Manager

Heidi holds a M.S. in Special Education from Western Governors University and a B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming. She has worked with students and families in various settings for over 15 years (including a year spent teaching in Tanzania) and is excited to be a part of the GEAR UP team! When she is not working, Heidi loves spending time with her dog, reading, quilting, baking, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family.

Alaura Tuft, GEAR UP Case Manager

Alaura earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a minor in Sociology, from University of Wyoming at Casper College. Previously serving parents and families with early childhood development and parenting support, she’s been a part of the GEAR UP team since 2023. She’s excited to continue serving high school students, and to help them discover all the amazing opportunities that lie ahead! In her free time, Alaura enjoys gardening, sewing, making art, traveling, local theater, and seeing friends and family.

Leo Scott, GEAR UP Administrative Assistant

Leo is a graduate from Glenrock High School and is currently working towards an associate’s degree in Accounting and Bookkeeping at Casper College. He has been a member of GEAR UP for five years. In his free time, Leo enjoys spending time with his dog, family and friends, and puzzling.