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Our Mission
Our mission at College Planning & Tutorial Center is to provide every student with a personalized education plan to meet their needs – a plan we call blueprint4college. Planning begins in middle school and continues through high school with guidance in choosing appropriate courses to ensure acceptance to specific colleges and majors. All in an environment that fosters learning, growth and personal development. Additionally, a significant number of students return to CPTC after four years of college for medical, dental, veterinary and law school applications.
Our History
Arising from humble beginnings in 1990 – before home computers were widely used – our founder, Laura Ferdinandi-Mahoney, worked with clients in their homes completing college applications. In 1994, we opened our first offices on West Shaw Avenue in Fresno, and in 2005 we officially became College Planning & Tutorial Center. By 2009, our growth necessitated larger, more modern facilities and we moved to our current location.
Despite CPTC’s growth through the years, our original commitment has never wavered: helping students achieve their goals. We have earned a proven track record of success for our students, including those with 504s and IEPs, and remain passionate about providing high-quality education well into the future. We are proud of our history and reputation, having worked with two generations of some of our earliest clients’ families.
We firmly believe there is a college for everyone. It just takes planning.
Dianne McIntosh
Executive Director of Operations
As the Executive Director of Operations, Dianne is an organizational anchor at College Planning Tutorial Center. In addition to serving as a liaison between the college planning and tutoring departments, she handles the organization’s accounting and finances. It’s her role in supporting students’ success – from prepping testing materials to gathering transcripts to assisting with planning – that she enjoys most. Dianne says there’s nothing like hearing that a student got into their dream school and knowing that she played a small part in their success. That’s her biggest reward, and the one that brings the most joy to the entire team.
Natalie Alvarez
Tutor
A tutor with College Planning Tutorial Center for over six years, Natalie supports learners across a broad range of subjects, guiding, mentoring and inspiring students from diverse backgrounds, and helping them build the skills and confidence needed to achieve academic and personal success. Her commitment to education is rooted in a belief that every student has the potential to succeed when given the right support and encouragement. With a background that bridges science, psychology, education and military service, Natalie brings a well-rounded, disciplined approach to every challenge — always focused on making a meaningful impact. A 2019 graduate of California State University, Fresno, with a degree in forensic science and a minor in psychology, Natalie has a strong foundation in analytical thinking, human behavior and scientific methodology. Natalie proudly served in the United States Army for nine years, achieving the rank of sergeant.
Cody Heinks
Tutor
Cody Heinks graduated Summa Cum Laude from California State University, Fresno, with a degree in mathematics. As a tutor for College Planning Tutorial Center, Cody supports K-12 students with patience, kindness and clarity. He’s passionate about helping learners build confidence by breaking down difficult concepts and making them “make sense.” As a recent college graduate and lifelong learner, Cody brings energy and focus to his tutoring, along with strong organizational skills. Outside the classroom, he enjoys reading, gaming, playing ultimate frisbee, spending time with lifelong friends and caring for his animals.
Justice Uphott
Tutor
A tutor with nearly a decade of experience, Justice brings a results-driven and student-focused approach to academic support. For the past three years at the College Planning and Tutorial Center, Justice has helped students excel across a wide range of high school and college-level subjects, with a strong emphasis on mathematics, sciences, and SAT/ACT preparation. By tailoring each session to the individual learner, Justice creates a supportive and engaging environment that builds confidence, strengthens understanding, and promotes long-term academic success. Flexible scheduling and options for both in-person and virtual sessions ensure that students receive high-quality guidance that fits their needs.
Justice tutors subjects including Algebra I & II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Precalculus, Calculus I & II, Statistics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Environmental Science, Human Geography, English/Writing, U.S. and World History, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Financial Accounting, Psychology, Formal Logic, introductory Statics, and more. Whether a student is working to improve grades, master challenging concepts, or prepare for major standardized tests, Justice provides clear instruction and targeted strategies designed to help them achieve their goals.