About Us
Mari Peralta
Chair of the Board
Mari is Tucson Native, who – along with her 2nd grader – loves to jump on every opportunity to support this awesome community in which we live and thrive. As the initial Chair of the BOVP Boosters Board of Directors, her aim is to help foster connection while having fun and finding better ways to love on our awesome teachers and staff. Have a question or want to learn more about Boosters? Mari will always make time to chat!
Libby Dennis
Vice-Chair
Libby was born and raised in northern Colorado but learned to love humidity and the east coast after a few years in New England. Tucson has been amazing for her family, including both Basis Oro Valley schools for her 2 boys. Libby loves connecting with people and helping in whatever ways are needed. Boosters has been an amazing outlet for both. She along with husband, Devon, are really looking forward to trying new things and connecting with other families as we build community.
Margaret
Torres Nelson
Treasurer &
Communications Chair
Margaret was born in Tucson but has also lived in the Midwest and on the West Coast, giving her an appreciation for all kinds of people and places. If she’s not in town, you’ll most likely find her and her 3rd grade son in Puerto Peñasco spending time with her husband. Margaret is excited to be part of Boosters and help build a warm, positive school community.
Matthew Dunkel
Social Media Chair
Originally from the Midwest, Matthew and his Family came to Oro Valley in 2017 and are here to stay. With a 2nd Grader at BASIS and another in high school, Mom & Dad are super busy with all the activities their kids have in and outside of school. To be a part of the Boosters for each of them is a great way to give back to their kids, the groups they are a part of and the community as a whole.
Jessica Barkman
Teachers’ Lounge Snack Coordinator
Jessica is a Houston native and proud mom to two energetic boys. After spending 15 of the past 18 years living overseas, she’s developed a deep appreciation for different cultures—and a serious love for strong coffee. Jessica is passionate about building community, supporting families, and creating meaningful connections.
Audrey Schackart
Meetings Coordinator
Audrey was born and raised in Tucson by math teachers, fostering a deep appreciation and respect for educators and academics. While decent at math, she instead chooses to serve her community through her work as a mental health therapist, being involved in Boosters and her children’s extracurricular groups. She is a mother of two boys who have attended BVOP since Kindergarten.
Ariej ‘Lee’
Abdulhalim
Teacher/Staff Luncheon Coordinator
Lee is a Louisiana gal navigating the adventure of motherhood with her extraordinary daughter and supportive partner by her side. She has a talent for bringing people together.
Anya Nelson
General Board Member
Anya is a Tucson native and proud parent of two kids at BASIS Oro Valley Primary. She’s deeply committed to supporting our amazing teachers, staff, and school community.
Devon Dennis
General Board Member
Devon was born in Colorado, raised overseas, and came back to Colorado where he met the love of his life and now has two incredible boys. He got his engineering degree, spent time in New England before relocating his family to Tucson. His passions are hockey, playing games with the kiddos and food. To him, there is nothing better than family time. Devon is excited to be involved in the community, helping out every chance he gets. Feel free to say hello and find out what Boosters has planned.