2014-15 TPE AMBASSADORS
JULIE BATT UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO My name is Julie Batt and I am a first year graduate student in getting my masters of education in higher education. I will be representing the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio for the TPE program. My professional goals are to establish a career dealing with First Year Experience, Residence Life, and Student Conduct. I am very excited to be a TPE Ambassador as I cannot wait to network with all the various professional organizations associated with TPE as well as gaining more knowledge on the TPE conference and process itself.
ERIKA BELL OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY My name is Morgan Bell and I am currently a graduate assistant at The Ohio State University as the Graduate Advisor to the Ohio Union Activities Board. I attended Davidson College in North Carolina and am in love with College Unions! I look forward to working with TPE and am excited about helping future graduates find jobs!
CRISTIAN BIVIANO UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Cristian Biviano is a current graduate student at the University of Southern California in the Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs masters program. Cristian recently completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and originally from the windy city: Chicago. He holds an assistantship in the USC Office of Residential Education. Cristian is excited to be serving as USC TPE Ambassador and hopes to meet other great colleagues and peers with the position.
ALEX BLAUVELT SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY Alex Blauvelt, a native from the Northeast Indiana region, is a first-year graduate student in the Student Affairs in Higher Education program at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. He also works as a graduate assistant in the Office of Multicultural Develop, working with first year students in the Jump Start Mentoring Program available for all students at Slippery Rock University. In addition to Jump Start, Alex also works with the Student Union of Multicultural Affairs (SUMA) student organization which works to spread awareness across campus.
CHRISTOPHER BOMBARA CSU CHANNEL ISLANDS Christopher (Chris) Bombara is pursuing his master degree in Education with a specialization in Educational Leadership and Higher Education concentration at California State University, Channel Islands (CI). At CI, Chris oversees the daily operation and staff of the Bell Tower Information Center during its founding year in addition to completing special projects for the Vice President for Student Affairs
ASHLEY BURELISON INDIANA UNIVERSITY PURDUE UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS My name is Ashley Burelison, and I am a first-year graduate student in the Indiana University Higher Education and Student Affairs Master’s program. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a certificate in Family Life Education from Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis. My graduate assistantship position is in academic advising of Health and Life Science majors for undergraduate students of freshman and sophomore status. In my free time, I love to travel with my husband and two children, read, and sleep.
KEIGHLA BURNS UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA Keighla Burns is a graduate student at the University of South Carolina in the Higher Education and Student Affairs masters degree program. Prior to attending the University of South Carolina, Keighla received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Sociology from Stetson University in DeLand Florida and completed an Acuho-I Summer Internship at Kansas State University working with fall training. Her Graduate Assistant position at the University of South Carolina is with University Housing as an Assistant Residence Life Coordinator working in an all-female residence hall. In her free time, Keighla like to read books for pleasure and create glass pearl bracelets. Keighla is excited to have the opportunity to work with The Placement Exchange, within NASPA, to get experience with the national organization to gain a broader perspective on student affairs practices. Go Gamecocks!
JESSICA CARRON TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY Jessica is the ambassador for Texas Tech University, where she is pursuing her Master’s in Higher Education Administration. On campus, she is a Graduate Hall Coordinator for an apartment complex of 450 upper level and graduate students, and is also her cohort’s representative at Tech’s chapter of the Higher Education Student Association. She traveled to Texas Tech from her undergraduate institution, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, where she received a dual Bachelor’s degree in journalism and history. Her interests in student affairs include leadership development, social justice and diversity, and student conduct.
ALEJANDRO CASTANEDA FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY My name is Alejandro Castaneda but everyone calls me Alex. I was born and raised in Miami, Florida but have traveled around the world looking for new adventures, even had the opportunity to explore the adrenaline capital of the world,New Zealand. I am currently a Graduate Student in the office of Campus life advising the Student Programming Council at Florida International University. From day one of getting involved during my time as an undergraduate til this day I have yet to wake up and not look forward to the day ahead of me.
JOHN CIMMINO APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY John Cimmino is a first-year graduate student at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. He is studying College Student Development and is enrolled in the College Outdoor Program Administration track. John studied English and Human Resource Management at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and is originally from Brooklyn, New York. He enjoys hiking, cooking, and all sorts of outdoor activities. NASPA 2015 is his first national conference and his second visit to New Orleans, Louisiana.
KENNETH COBBS II ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Kenneth Cobbs II serves as the Assistant Community Director for a 1200 student residence hall, Taylor Place, at Arizona State University’s Downtown Phoenix location. Kenneth is also a graduate student in ASU’s Higher and Postsecondary Education Master’s program. Before coming to ASU, Kenneth was a client relationship associate at Vanguard, headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Kenneth currently holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from The George Washington University. As a native of Philadelphia, Kenneth is committed to spreading “brotherly love” wherever he goes and is passionate about making an impact in the lives of students.
KARLA COLEMAN VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY Karla Vera Garcia Coleman was born in Mexico. She attended Baylor University where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and History in 2013. She served City Year San Antonio working with inner city youth in an 8th grade reading class. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration at Peabody College, Vanderbilt University. She is passionate about supporting underrepresented and first generation students get the most out of their collegiate experience.
SARA CONEY CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY- FULLERTON Sara is a first-year graduate student in the Master’s in Higher Education program at California State University, Fullerton. There, she serves as the Campus Activities Graduate Assistant in Student Life & Leadership. In her free time, Sara volunteers as a mentor to transfer students at Santa Ana College, enjoys crafting, and loves exploring new restaurants. Although Sara is unsure of her career goal at this time, she certainly has a passion for helping students and is so thrilled to be able to exercise this passion for the rest of her professional career!
DAWN CULPEPPER NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY I’m currently studying Higher Education Administration at North Carolina State University while doing a Graduate Assistantship at Duke University. Previously, I was the Director of Programs and Operations at the Public Leadership Education Network, a nonprofit that prepares college women for careers in public policy. With PLEN, I led strategic program development, designed and conducted workshops and trainings for college women of all ages, and collaborated with higher education professionals from across the country to bring students to Washington to learn about leadership in public policy. I also completed an Americorps VISTA Fellowship with Turning the Page, an organization that empowers parents to become agents for change in their children’s education. I’m a proud University of Virginia graduate!
AMBER DANKU SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY Amber Danku is currently a graduate student at Salem State University in Salem, MA. Originally from New Jersey, she attended Rutgers University and, over the summer, served as a NODA intern in Tennessee. Amber is currently the Graduate Assistant for Operations and Off Campus Student Services at Emerson College in Boston, MA. Her main interests in Student Affairs include all areas of programming, off campus/commuter student services, leadership/training, and orientation. Her interests outside of student affairs include horror movies and obsessively collecting pressed pennies.
NIMAT DAVIS CSU-FRESNO STATE Mrs. Davis received her degree in Comparative Sociology from the University of Puget Sound, Tacoma Washington in 2000. She conducted research in Milan, Italy for her thesis “Spaghetti Twist,” which documents the changes of the Italian woman’s role in society. Mrs. Davis is the Administrative Support Coordinator for the Women’s Studies Program and the Political Science Department. Mrs. Davis is a Master’s Candidate for Educational Leadership and Administration at California State University, Fresno 2015.
SHANON DAVIS UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON Shanon Davis is a native of Columbus, Ohio. She received her Bachelors of Science in Organizational Leadership from Wright State University in 2009. Following five years of working in Ohio and Georgia within corporate and nonprofit arenas, Shanon discovered her passion working in student development and started to pursue her Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Administration at the University of Dayton (UD). Shanon is a Residence Coordinator Graduate Assistant, member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and a committee member of the UD Graduate Leadership Institute. When free time appears she enjoys painting, traveling, and is an aspiring yoga guru. Shanon brings several experiences and honed transferable skills to the Placement Exchange Ambassador role. She is proud and thrilled to serve as the liaison between The Placement Exchange and UD graduate students.
KATHARINE DEROSSETTE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS Kay Kay DeRossette is studying Higher Education Administration and Sustainability at the University of Arkansas. She is from Vicksburg, MS and received her bachelor’s of Exercise Science from the University of Mississippi in 2014. At Arkansas she works as a Graduate Assistant in the Student Affairs-Strength Based Initiatives Office and leads waste reduction initiatives on campus as a senior intern in the Office for Sustainability. Kay Kay is the Volunteer Coordinator for the Razorback Athletic Department’s Recycling Committee. She is also Chairperson of the Movember Campaign “HogStache + RebelStache,” a campaign geared to raise awareness about men’s health at both her current institution and Alma mater. She is pursuing a career in Campus Sustainability with an emphasis in waste reduction, recycling, food recovery, and composting.
FAITH DESAUTELS-FRANZ UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA Faith Franz earned her Bachelors of Business Administration in marketing from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida. She is currently pursuing her Master of Education in curriculum and instruction with a specialization in student affairs from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. For her Graduate Assistantship, Faith is currently working as an Assistant Residence Life Coordinator in Maple Hall at the USF-Tampa Campus. Her assistantship experience includes working closely with the Nursing, ROTC, and Green Living Learning Communities as well as working with the upperclassmen community. Faith is the Professional Development Coordinator in USF’s Association of College of Student Affairs. Faith is excited and honored to work with The Placement Exchange as an ambassador and cannot wait for all TPE has to offer this year.
JESSICA DILLINGHAM MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY Jessi Dillingham is a first-year graduate student at Mississippi State University pursuing a master’s degree in student affairs. She has an assistantship with the Department of Housing and Residence Life and supervises a residence hall of over 400 students. Jessi also serves as the first-year liaison for the Mississippi State Student Affairs Graduate Association.
ALEX DUDEK GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY Alex is from Cleveland, Ohio and graduated from Bowling Green State University with a degree in Political Science in 2014. He is currently a graduate student in the Higher Education Administration – College Student Affairs Leadership program at Grand Valley State University working in the Office of Student Life with Fraternity and Sorority Life.
ANTONIO DURAN MIAMI UNIVERSITY Hello everyone! My name is Antonio Duran, and I am excited to serve as the TPE Ambassador for Miami University. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, I am an alumni of New York University. At Miami University, I am a first year master’s student in the SAHE program. I also work as an Assistant Resident Director/First Year Advisor. Having attended the past two NASPA Annual Conferences where I have volunteered with TPE, I am beyond elated to continue working with The Placement Exchange.
AMANDA FISHMAN AUBURN UNIVERSITY Hometown: Sebastian, FL Undergrad: Stetson University - DeLand, FL Graduate Institution: Auburn University Program: M. Ed. - Higher Education Administration GA Experience: Graduate Area Coordinator for Residence Life Higher Ed/Stu Affairs Interest: Greek Life & Orientation
KYLE FLOWERS OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY Kyle is a first year graduate student in the College Student Services Administration program at Oregon State University. He will be completing a thesis in his graduate studies and will be specializing in New Student Programs. Kyle’s assistantship works with the Memorial Union Program Council, and is currently involved in the regional planning committees for both the NACA West and NODA Region 1 conferences this upcoming year.
MARIA FRANCESE SPRINGFIELD COLLEGE Maria Francese is in her first year of the Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education program at Springfield College. Maria graduated from Western New England University with her BSBA in Sport Management in May 2014. She was a four year varsity softball player, orientation leader, and academic progress monitor. She now serves in a graduate assistant role in Springfield’s Office of Student Activities. In this role she serves as advisor to both the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and Pre-Camp, one of Springfield’s first year orientation programs. Additionally Maria still gives back to the softball team at her alma mater as an assistant coach.
SAMANTHA GHIKA NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY My name is Samantha Ghika and I am a Graduate Student at Northeastern University located in Boston, Massachusetts. I got my Undergraduate Degree at Framingham State University and graduated with a Sociology Major concentrating in Human Services, along with two minors in Psychology and Diversity Studies. I am currently getting my Master’s Degree in College Student Development and Counseling and my assistantship is in Residential Life at Northeastern. Within my assistantship, I help oversee two first year residence halls and help supervise a team of twelve Resident Assistants. I also have a functional area of First Year Experience and Living Learning Communities (LLC’s). I am really enjoying my time at Graduate School and living in Boston and I am excited to be a TPE ambassador!
KELLY GILTON TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY My name is Kelly Gilton. I am from Blue Ash, Ohio. I completed by Bachelor of Science in Education at Bowling Green State University in Northern Ohio. I am currently a first year student in the Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education (SAAHE) program at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas.
KELCIE HAMILTON UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA Kelcie Hamilton is a Residence Hall Director at the University of North Dakota. Kelcie graduated from Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies and an emphasis in Public Relations. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Higher Education. Kelcie has experience with living, learning communities, working in a variety of housing environments, creating cultural immersion opportunities for international students, collaborating cross-campus, advising, and supervising peers and undergraduate students.
OLIVIA HENDERSON UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS Olivia Henderson is a Graduate Student at the University of North Texas in the Higher Education Student Affairs program. Olivia graduated from Prairie View A&M University in 2014 with a Bachelors of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies 4-8. Her aspirations is to one day become a student affairs professional and to help student matriculate through college.
NOAH HENRY-DARWISH UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND I was born and raised in Eugene, Oregon and received my B.A. in Psychology from Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington in 2012. During my college years I was involved in activities including residence life, academic advising, student government, and the student programming board. After graduating I stayed in Walla Walla and worked for two years as a Resident Director at Whitman. This past summer I moved east to pursue a Master’s in Student Affairs from the University of Maryland - College Park. My past professional experiences and current interests within Student Affairs include retention programs for returning students, sustainability initiatives, holistic approaches to conduct and sexual misconduct education, effective use of assessment and learning outcomes, and incorporating social justice into all aspects of my work.
ALEXIS HEPPLER UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA My name is Alexis Heppler. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Corporate Communications/Business Administration from Susquehanna University. Currently, I am a graduate student in the College Student Affairs Administration program at the University of West Florida. At UWF, I work as a Graduate Assistant in Wellness Services. With my position, I have the opportunity to work with Peer Educators and college students to promote healthy habits. I am particularly excited to have the opportunity to promote healthy relationships on campus. Studies have shown that relationships affect students’ overall success in college. By helping students develop healthy relationship practices their quality of life in college will be improved. I believe it’s important to have a hands-on approach when talking with students about sexual relationships and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. I have always had a passion for helping others and through my undergraduate experience I fell in love with the college culture. I truly admire faculty and staff that are devoted to the development of the whole student. There was no doubt in my mind, Student Affairs was the perfect fit for me.
JAMIE HOM BALL STATE UNIVERSITY Hello, my name is Jamie Hom and I am a first year graduate student through the Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education program at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. I received my bachelors in Anthropology and Culture and Communication with a minor in Women Studies from Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York. I am originally from the East coast, where I grew up in Pawling, New York. Coming to Ball State University is my first time living in the Midwest, but I love to travel, go hiking, and find new experiences. During my undergrad, I was very involved in Residential Life as a resident assistant and loved every minute of it. Through my involvements I was able to form meaningful relationships with those around me that led me to pursue a career in Higher Education. Now at Ball State University I am currently a graduate assistant in the department of Housing and Residential Life. I really enjoy talking with students and helping them shape a positive college experience. I am excited to be a 2015 Ambassador for The Placement Exchange, and getting to help out anyway I can.
GABRIEL HORTON GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY Gabriel Horton is an educator and City Year Alum who believes in student excellences. Gabriel’s journey for knowledge started late for him, but he is now aware of the direction. As a humble first generation graduate student at Georgia Southern University in the Counselor Education and Student Support, he is highly interested in higher education. Mr. Horton can be described as goal driven, resourceful, and an advocate for positive change. He loves to promote and support his passions which are education and service. As he puts it, “I am not work in progress, but progress that’s working.”- Gabriel Horton
JAMIE HUDDLESTON UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO Hello! My name is Jamie Huddleston and I am in the Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership program at the University of Northern Colorado and the Graduate Assistant for Social Justice. I am eager to work The Placement Exchange and eager to see the opportunities that will come this year! Growing up in Denver, I have embraced Colorado as my home. I completed my undergraduate degree of Communication Studies at Colorado State University. From there, I taught high school English in Keenesburg, Colorado, before coming here to the University of Northern Colorado to pursue this new season of life. Many of my passions focus on the capacity to help and serve others. I desire to support students in their life endeavors by helping them pursue their own dreams and ambitions. It is my hope to create an environment where students have the ability to discover their identity and find the resources and means to thrive in that liberty. Although I love all things student affairs, outside of my work with students I enjoy running, coffee shop meandering, and book nerding (English teachers can make up words).
CHRISTOPHER HURLEY RUTGERS UNIVERSITY I am delighted to be the TPE Ambassador from Rutgers University. I am a first year graduate student at Rutgers University in the College Student Affairs (CSA) program. I have a graduate internship within Student Center Operations where I supervise student staff and assist in daily operation of the facilities. As an undergrad, I studied Graphic Design at the Maryland Institute College of Art. I am often able to implement my design background and creative problem solving in my new role as a Student Affairs professional, thus merging my academic interests.
DARRON JENKINS LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY Darron Jenkins is a first year Master’s student in the Higher Education Administration program at Louisiana State University. He also serves as the Graduate Assistant of Leadership in The Department of Residential Life, where he serves as the advisor for RHA and NRHH. Darron received his bachelors degree in Human Resource Management from The University of Southern Mississippi. He was actively involved in residential life and Delta Sigma Pi Business Fraternity. Darron is also a recent initiate into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, The Xi Nu Lambda Alumni Chapter. In the future, Darron hopes to become a Dean of Students or Vice President of Student Affairs at a HBCU.
QUIANA JENKINS SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY-CARBONDALE Quiana Jenkins is from Heth, Arkansas and attended the University of Arkansas. She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture, Food, and Life Sciences. Quiana is currently a master’s student at Southern Illinois University, she will receive her Masters of Education with emphasis in College Student Personnel May 2016. During her time at the University of Arkansas, Quiana participated in NASPA as an Undergraduate Fellow (NUFP). Quiana lives by the quote from Maya Angelou, “my mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”
TYRONE JOHNSON VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY My name is Tyrone Johnson Jr. I am a first year graduate student pursuing a degree in Higher Educational Leadership at Valdosta State University. I serve as the graduate assistant for the Access Office where I work to create a more inclusive and accessible campus. Aside from school and work, I am an active member of the Sigma Iota chapter of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity where we provide service to the campus, community and country. My passion for student affairs came during my second year at Florida State University when I realized that working with students tie into my passion for service and helping others grow and develop for the better. With being an ambassador for TPE I hope to gain an understanding of the job hunting process and another outlook on higher education student affairs so that I could pass that knowledge on to my fellow colleagues.
JAYLYN JONES BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY My name is Jaylyn Jones, and I’m a California native taking on the Midwest. I currently attend Bowling Green State University where I am a cabinet member of the Bowling Green Student Development Association. I work as a graduate assistant in Residence Life and Multicultural Development at Ohio Northern University. When I’m not working with students or coordinating ONU’s living learning communities, you can find me binge watching Survivor or online window shopping. Although Zumba is my first love, I’ve taken a break from my five year addiction to train to for my first 5k. I’m obsessed with grande white mochas from Starbucks, spoken word, and all things USC Football (Fight On! Go Trojans!). I’m so excited to be a TPE Ambassador this year, and I can’t wait to help people find their new professional homes through The Placement Exchange.
BRANDYN JORDAN UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS Brandyn Jordan is a native of Detroit, Michigan. He is a proud graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies. During his undergraduate career he was a resident assistant, an active member with the Midwest Aggies, and also served on the UNC Association of Student Government. These organizations inspired him to pursue a career in Student Affairs which lead him to the College Student Personnel Services and Administration program. While at UCA Brandyn will serve as the Resident Coordinator for Hughes Residential College, where he hopes to have a positive impact on the community and campus.
KALLY JORGENSEN SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY A native of Grand Forks, ND, Kally Jorgensen earned her B.A. in Communication and International Studies in 2013 from the University of North Dakota. Currently, she is obtaining her M.Ed. in Educational Leadership - Higher Education at Southern Methodist University while serving as the Graduate Assistant in the Community Engagement & Leadership Center. In her free time, Kally enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching sports and listening to music.
LAURA KEPLER FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY My name is Laura Kepler. I’m from one of the most beautiful places in the world: Jupiter, Florida. I currently work as the Hall Coordinator for Florida Atlantic University at the John D. MacArthur Campus in Jupiter, FL where the Harriet Wilkes Honors College is located. I am pursing my Master’s in Higher Educational Leadership, and after completion I plan to continue working in housing and residential life. My undergrad was spent at Stetson University, where I fell in love with Student Affairs. After serving as a Resident Assistant for 4 years, I developed a passion for working with students in the on-campus living environment. I love cat memes, fortune cookies, and taking pictures with my underwater phone. I cannot begin to express just how excited I am at the opportunity to work with peers from around the country!
ANGIE KIM NEW YORK UNIVERSITY Originally from Los Angeles, CA, Angie is a first year Higher Education and Student Affairs student at New York University. She currently interns at NYU Residential Life and Housing Services as a Faculty Programs Assistant. Angie graduated from University of Southern California this past May.
LANEY KURATOR SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY Laney Renee Kurator is a current graduate student at San Diego State University where she is studying Post-secondary Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Student Affairs. She currently holds a graduate assistantship in Residential Education at San Diego State University. In this role Laney supervises 12 live-in student Academic Mentors who work with first-year students in Residential Learning Communities, serves as a Residential Judicial Officer to students living in the housing community who violate Housing policies and the SDSU Code of Conduct. In addition, Laney also serves on the Para-professional staff training and selection committee, where she coordinates a student leadership online application database for over 250 applicants, as well as, planning and coordinating student staff training.
MACKENZIE LECHLITNER TAYLOR UNIVERSITY Mackenzie Lechlitner is a first year grad student at Taylor University obtaining her Master’s in Higher Education. She completed her undergraduate degree at Purdue University with a Bachelor’s degree English Education and Spanish. Since graduating she has both taught here in the States, as well as in China. Mackenzie believes in education on all levels, loves to travel and rarely says “no” to new experiences.
KRISTI LECLERC UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA Kristi Leclerc is a 2014 graduate of the University of New Hampshire and is currently a first year graduate student at the University of Georgia. She is in the College Student Affairs Administration program and is working as a Graduate Resident for UGA Housing. Her passions within student affairs include: orientation, student leadership programs, residential life, and college unions. In her free time she enjoys crocheting, reading, the occasional Netflix binge, perusing Pinterest and Twitter, and traveling. She is very much looking forward to being a TPE Ambassador!
ELANA LEVY KENT STATE UNIVERSITY Elana Levy is a first year master’s student studying Higher Education and Student Personnel at Kent State University. Her Graduate Assistantship is at Case Western Reserve University as an Assistant First Year Coordinator for the Department of Residence Life and Services. She was born and raised in New York and graduated this past May with two bachelor’s degrees in Fashion and Textiles and Communications Studies at SUNY College at Oneonta. Elana is extremely excited to be a part of the TPE Ambassador team and cannot wait to help the those in her cohort who will be attending TPE 2015!
ELYSSE LONGIOTTI NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY Elysse Longiotti received her Bachelor’s in History from Northwestern University. After receiving her B.A., she worked as a proposal writer at Aon Consulting in Chicago before deciding to return to graduate school. She worked as an Italian instructor and FLAS Fellow at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she completed her Master of Arts in Italian Studies. Elysse worked as a PhD candidate in Romance Studies at Duke University briefly before deciding to pursue a career in student affairs. While at Duke, she founded the working group Ocean Crossings and was the assistant to Duke in Venice. She is now pursuing a Masters of Science in Higher Education Administration and Policy at Northwestern University while working in Student Affairs at Rush Medical University. Her interests include study abroad, the globalization of education, veteran affairs and student advising.
BRITTNI LOWERY UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND Brittni was born and raised in Tampa, FL, and attended the University of South Florida from 2010-2014. She credits her involvement in the business living learning community beginning her first year as the kickoff for her collegiate experience. Throughout her time at USF, Brittni had the opportunity to work in the College of Business Dean’s Office, become an RA for her LLC, work as an Orientation Team Leader, and become involved with Greek life. During Brittni’s junior year, she was selected as a College of Business 25 Under 25 program Honoree, representing the top 25 students in the college of over 4,000 students. Brittni graduated in 2014 with a BS in Business Administration, and is now in the College Student Personnel program at the University of Rhode Island, working as a Graduate Assistant Hall Director. Brittni will begin interning with Bryant University Greek Life in the spring.
MATTHEW LUMPP OHIO UNIVERSITY My name is Matthew Lumpp and I am a proud to say that I am an ambassador for The Placement Exchange! Outside of this position, I am happy to say that I am currently attending Ohio University as a graduate student in their College Student Personnel program. With this program, I also have an graduate assistantship at Ohio University within the Campus Involvement Center. My graduate assistantship falls under the Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life with our thirty plus social organizations! I am very excited about field of Student Affairs and Higher Education and hope to continue to fuel this passion through programs like TPE!
GRACE LYTTON TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY Gracie is currently in her first year of graduate school at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, working towards her Master’s Degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education. She is originally from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, but has lived in Texas for many years. She enjoys traveling, cooking, working out, and hopes to also become a certified personal trainer one day.
MICHELLE MADSEN MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY My name is Michelle Madsen, and I am a graduate student at Missouri State University in the Student Affairs in Higher Education graduate program. I am a graduate assistant for Residence Life, serving as the Assistant Coordinator of Leadership Development and Programming. I received my Bachelors of Science in Elementary and Special Education from Northwest Missouri State University, where I was active in Residence Life, and many student led organizations.
FREDELITO YVAN MANALO TUGAS CLEMSON UNIVERSITY Fred Tugas is a first-year master’s student in counselor education (student affairs) at Clemson University. Currently, he serves as the graduate assistant for recruitment and selection for Clemson University Housing & Dining. A native of Virginia, Fred graduated from Old Dominion University with a bachelor’s degree in communication. During his tenure at ODU, he served as student body vice president and worked full-time as an admissions counselor. Fred is also a proud alumnus of the NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program and has interned at The University of Kansas, Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity and The Catholic University of America.
SIMONE MEDLEY UNIVERSITY OF SAN FRANCISCO Simone Medley is a first year graduate student in the Higher Education & Student Affair Master’s program at the University of San Francisco. Originally from Brooklyn, NY Simone hold a BA degree in Psychology from LIU Post. Her primary focus areas are student leadership, first generation programs and other programs that include resources for diverse student populations. In addition to her work in student affairs Simone enjoys girl scouting and is passionate about providing support for homeless youth.
NICOLE MORSE UNIVERSITY OF BRIDGEPORT B.G.S University of Connecticut 2014, Masters in Counseling with the specialization of College Service Personnel University of Bridgeport 2016. I am currently interning at University of Bridgeport in the Residential Life and Student Conduct Office as well as holding a Graduate Assistantship at Student Health Services. I am a cheerleading coach for youth, high school, and recently volunteering with University of Fairfield cheerleading team. I have spent the past four years of my professional career working in health care in registration and staffing at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital.
JESSICA NORMAN SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY Jesica Norman is currently a graduate student at Syracuse University in the Higher Education program. As an undergrad, Jesica attended Arizona State University where she studied Criminology and Criminal Justice. Jesica also participated in the NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program, and volunteered at the Phoenix Placement Exchange. Jesica now works as an Assistant Residence Director and serves on the Office of Residence Life’s Inclusivity Committee. In her spare time, Jesica enjoys reading, running, and watching college sports.
ALFREDO OLIVEIRA ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY Alfredo Oliveira is originally from Brazil. He is a student at St. Cloud State University pursuing a Masters in Higher Education Administration. He graduated from SCSU in May with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in International Relations. Oliveira was the recipient of the Deeann Griebel Scholarship in 2012. He was also a peer mentor as well as an academic advisor in the Honors Office. Oliveira graduated from St. Cloud Technical and Community College in 2010 and 2013, where he earned an A.A.S. in Sales and Management, and an A.S. in Business Management, respectively. His long-term goals are to earn a Ph.D. in Political Science and teach college-level classes.
JARED PACILEO UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA I am Jared Pacileo, and I currently function as the Community Director for Bryant Hall and Small Group Housing at The University of Alabama. I am a first year Master’s student in the Higher Education Administration program at UA. I just recently graduated from Mississippi State University with a Bachelor’s degree in History. In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out in my office and playing basketball at the REC with some of the students that live in my building. Also, I love spending time with my family and visiting my hometown of Collierville, TN, as much as my busy schedule allows me to.
JESSICA PADILLA IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY My name is Jessica Padilla and I am pursuing my Masters of Education in Student Affairs at Iowa State University. My assitantship is in the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs as the Multicultural Programming & Black Cultural Center Graduate Assistant. I was born and raised in Muscatine, Iowa and attended the University of Iowa prior to Iowa State where I majored in International Studies & Spanish with a Critical Cultural Competence Certificate. I have an interest in working with first-generation students and those with underrepresented identities as well since I am a first-generation Latina in graduate school. I was involved with NUFP (NASPA Undergraduate Fellowship Program) as an undergrad which allowed me to explore and network with professionals in the field of student affairs.
MICHAEL PALACIOZ UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA I graduated from Marshall University, in Huntington, West Virginia, in the spring of 2014, with my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree. While at Marshall I was heavily involved in Residence Life and many other clubs and organizations. This is what made me decide to look into a Higher Education programs and the student affairs field. Currently I attend the University of Arizona, in Tucson, Arizona, as a first year Masters student in the Higher Education program. I also have a graduate assistantship in Residence Life as a Graduate Community Director.
AMELIA PARNIS EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY I’m Amelia Parnis, a first year graduate student study Higher Education Student Affairs (HESA) at Eastern Michigan University (EMU) in Ypsilanti, Michigan. I currently serve as a Graduate Assistant in our Holman Success Center overseeing both our Drop-In Tutoring and Supplemental Instruction programs. In addition, I’m the first year liaison for our HESA (Higher Education Student Association) board, connecting fellow classmates in my cohort to professional development, networking, and social events that our HESA board plans. My undergraduate work, also completed at EMU, was in English Language, Literature, and Writing with a minor in Psychology. I also had the opportunity to serve in roles at our University Writing Center, Autism Collaborative Center, and Honors College, where my love for the Student Affairs field really began. I hope to work in academic support and/or bridge programs in the future.
ALEJANDRA RAMIREZ UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA My name is Alejandra Ramirez and I am currently a first year graduate student in the Student Personnel in Higher Education at the University of Florida. I was born and raised in El Salvador and in 2005 my family moved to Weston, Florida. I received my undergraduate degree in Mathematics from the University of Florida in 2010. As an undergrad I worked with the Department of Housing and Residence Education as an RA, Co-Chaired the Florida Resident Assistant Seminar, served as a member of the Student Conduct Committee and as a Preview Staffer (orientation leader) with New Student and Family Programs in the Dean of Students Office. As a graduate student I currently serve as an Academic/PreHealth Advisor in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
NICOLE RAYNOR UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA My name is Nicole Raynor. I’m originally from Kansas City, Missouri, which is amazing since I’m an avid sports fan! I have my Bachelor’s of Science in Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I majored in meeting and event management and minored in entertainment. I am currently attending the University of Central Florida working towards my Master’s in Higher Education and Policy Studies. I work in UCF’s Office of First Year Experience as a Graduate Assistant, where my main focus is the Out-of-State Student Mentoring Program and Pegasus Palooza, the University Welcome Week. I am very excited to be a TPE Ambassador this year and can’t wait for what this year has in store!
BRIAN RICHTER WESTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Brian Richter is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in College Student Personnel at Western Illinois University. He currently works as a Graduate Assistant in the College Student Personnel Recruitment Office and is from Seattle, Washington. He graduated from Washington State University in 2013 with a degree in Criminal Justice. Brian has been involved in various areas on campus including, Residence Life, Greek Life, Admissions and Orientation to name a few. On a personal note, he likes to travel and explore new cities, hang out with close friends and cook different types of food. Brian is excited for the opportunity to further develop in a professional capacity through the TPE Ambassador program!
CHERRISH ROBINSON MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERISTY My name is Cherrish Robinson and I am a first year masters student, currently studying Student Affairs Administration at Michigan State University. I currently serve as an Assistant Community Director for Michigan State’s Residential Education and Housing Services Department. I am originally from Southern California. In the future, I hope to serve as the Cal State University System Chancellor or work in DC on higher education policy. I attended undergrad at Humboldt State University in Northern California. During undergrad, I had the opportunity to attend TPE as part of a selection committee. I really enjoyed the opportunity and I am really looking forward for interning for TPE.
ANDREA SANTILLAN COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY My name is Andrea Santillan and I am currently a first year in the Student Affairs in Higher Education program at Colorado State University with an assistantship in Campus Activities, RamEvents as well as a Fraternity Graduate Advisor for Fiji. I am originally from California and some of the things I like to do for fun is run, watch Netflix, be a beach bum, and hangout with friends. A new thing I have found fun here in Colorado is indoor rock climbing and hope to keep it up!
SAMANTHA SEPULSKI UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA WILMINGTON Samantha is in her second semester at The University of North Carolina Wilmington, pursuing her Master’s degree in Higher Education. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Public Relations from the University of Cincinnati, where she was heavily involved on campus. At UNCW, Samantha serves as the Graduate Assistant for the campus programming board, The Association for Campus Entertainment (ACE). She is also the chairperson for the Student Organizations Committee and is a newly inducted member of Chi Sigma Alpha Honor Society. She looks forward to furthering her experiences in Higher Education and Student Affairs as well as working with TPE.
SHAKINAH SIMEONA-LEE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA GREENSBORO My name is Shakinah Simeona-Lee. I am currently pursuing a Master’s in the Student Personnel and Higher Education program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. My current graduate assistantship is with Housing and Residence Life as an Assistant Coordinator. My past experiences as an active undergraduate at Elon University as well as my year and a half experience as an admissions counselor with Pfeiffer University has led me to this point within student affairs. I am extremely excited to represent UNCG as a TPE ambassador and look forward to bridging the necessary information to my institution.
ANTHONY SULLERS JR UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN Education Master of Science, Higher Education University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL Expected May 2015 Bachelor of Science in Community Health University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL May 2014
JEREMY TILLMAN UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI Jeremy Tillman is a first year graduate student in the Higher Education/Student Personnel Program at the University of Mississippi. He currently serves as a Graduate Community Director for the Department of Student Housing. Jeremy earned his B.A. in Mathematics from Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA. Jeremy’s hobbies include playing guitar, writing songs, and talking to family and friends.
PAULINE TOLENTINO SEATTLE UNIVERSITY Pauline Tolentino is a graduate Assistant Resident Director with Seattle University. Haling from the Motor City (Detroit), she is pursuing a master’s in Student Development Administration. Pauline has a bachelor’s in Advertising and Public Relations from Loyola University Chicago. As an undergraduate, she was a NUFP Fellow and participated in various leadership opportunities with student leadership development, residence life, student activities, and community service engagement. Pauline is excited to serve as 2015 TPE Ambassador, looking forward to working with the Planning Committee and connecting with others in the higher education and student affairs community.
AMANDA TOMPKINS INDIANA UNIVERSITY BLOOMINGTON Amanda is a graduate supervisor in Residential Programs and Services at Indiana University - Bloomington and a M.S.Ed candidate in the Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) program. She completed her undergraduate degree at Virginia Tech in 2011 and studied communication and political science. Between her undergraduate work and her masters program she worked at Marymount University, in the Center for Career Services. She is originally from Tallahassee, FL but considers her hometown Louisa, VA where her family currently lives.
TRINA TREIN NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY I am originally from Chicago, Illinois. I received my Bachelors degree in English-Creative Writing and Scandinavian Studies at Minnesota State University. I am currently pursuing my Masters degree in Counseling and Student Affairs at Northern Arizona University. I am currently the Graduate Hall Director in McConnell Hall, which is the largest freshman building on campus. I am looking forward to being the TPE Ambassador for NAU and learning about this process with everyone who is currently planning on job searching at TPE.
JEFFREY TSANG UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT Jeffrey is a first year graduate student at the University of Vermont’s Higher Education & Student Affairs Administration program. His graduate assistantship is in the Office of International Education. He is an international student from Hong Kong. He did his undergraduate studies at Oregon State University
ALYSCIA VINCENT LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO Alyscia is a first year graduate student in the Higher Education program at Loyola University Chicago. There she also works as a graduate assistant in the office of Residence Life. A Chicago- native, she enjoys living downtown and visiting restaurants, shops and the beautiful Lake Michigan just blocks away. Alyscia attended the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign where she first developed her passion for student affairs, and has not looked back since! She is more than excited to get to work with the other TPE Ambassadors.
KATHERINE WARREN INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY Katherine Warren is working on her MS in Student Affairs and Higher Education from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana. She is serving as a graduate assistant for AmeriCorps and Programming in the Center for Community Engagement. Katherine received a BA in Communications and Media Arts with a track in Integrated Marketing and a minor in music from Bethany College in Bethany, West Virginia. A fun fact about Katherine is that she spent part of summer 2014 in Burkina Faso, Africa serving as a short term missionary.
CHRISTIAN WILLIAMS FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY Christian Williams is a first-year graduate student in the Higher Education - Student Affairs program at Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL. Christian serves as a graduate assistant in FSU’s Academic Center for Excellence, working with tutoring services in their Learning Studio. Christian calls both New York and Miami, FL home; he was born in Long Island, NY, completed his undergraduate work at Florida International University in Miami in December 2012, and lives in Albany, NY. He learned about TPE as a volunteer at the 2014 event in Baltimore, and is excited to get more involved by helping the 2nd-years in the Florida State higher education program learn about the wealth of opportunities available to them while personally learning more about the post-graduation job search process.
NICHOLAS WILLIAMS UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA Originally from Washington, DC/Northern Virginia area, Nick is a driven, creative individual who seeks to perform at the highest level possible. He is passionate about cooking, poetry, traveling, music, dance, and graphic design, and is always trying to learn new things to equip himself with. Nick received his B.A. from the University of Virginia in May 2014 and is currently pursuing his M.Ed is Student Affairs at UVa as well. Nick strives to become an administrator in the field, in particular Nick is working towards becoming a president within the Higher Education system in hopes to enact change that focuses upon improving the university focus upon student development and the retention of creative and innovative thinking. Nick desires to not only improve himself in the environment that he is apart of, but also find ways to build the communities that make up his environment.
BRANDON WOODMANCY UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE KNOXVILLE My name is Brandon Woodmancy and I am a first year in the College Student Personnel Master’s program at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I was born in Riverside, CA. and moved around a lot as a child, but always ended up back in Riverside. I attended the University of Tennessee for my undergraduate degrees in English and Philosophy. Housing opened to doors to student affairs for me and I have been finding ways to be involved on and off college campuses ever since. I enjoy playing racquetball and working out when I have free time! I look forward to working with TPE this year and having the opportunity to meet people all around the country!
WINFIELD YE UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC My name is Win Ye, and I’m very honored to be serving as the TPE Ambassador for the University of the Pacific. (#TigerLove) I received a B.A in Psychology with a Minor in Human Development at Cal State East Bay. (#PioneerPride) My background in Student Affairs involves: ResLife, RHA, Greek, Orientation, and NASPA. Currently, I serve as the Grace Covell Residence Director for my Graduate Assistantship, where I oversee 10 Resident Assistants and 300 residents. My five strengths are: Developer, Restorative, Empathy, Positivity, and Belief. Fun Fact: I was the 2013 Homecoming King for Cal State East Bay.