Director of the Sophomore Experience Program
Education
Appalachian State University, M.A., College Student Development
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, B.A., Psychology
Hometown
I was born in Elizabethtown, Ky., but grew up in Eastern N.C. due to Dad’s Marine Corps career.
What strengths do you offer at Wesleyan?
I have 13 years of experience in student affairs at small, private colleges in the Southeast, a commitment to excellence, and a desire to help our students be their best selves.
How do you live the Wesleyan Way?
My position allows me to support our students in a lot of ways – through the CARES team, which supports and encourages their personal success, by offering a variety of programs to help them find their purpose, and by attending different events on campus.
What is your greatest accomplishment at Wesleyan?
Definitely receiving the “Staff Member of the Year” recognition in my first year here (2014-2015). The fact that it was voted on by the students made it very, very special for me.
Please share several of your goals for 2016.
Continue to increase sophomore-to-junior retention, increase student participation in Sophomore Experience programs, and make personal connections with more students.
Describe your most rewarding experience at Wesleyan.
The Give Kids the World trip – there is something magical about watching students give up a part of their valuable winter break to dedicate their time to serving children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The whole experience bonds the students with each other, helps them hone in on and develop new skills, and gives them the opportunity to reflect on all of the things they are blessed with in their own lives.
What’s the best way to spend at Saturday afternoon?
At a Wesleyan Women’s Basketball game or on the couch binge-watching “House of Cards,” “Orange is the New Black” or “The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” on Netflix
Favorite food
Pizza
Hobbies
Cheering for the Tar Heels, spending time with family (I have the cutest nieces and nephew EVER)! Pinterest crafting
Tell us about a valuable mentor.
Sarah Stover – We were colleagues at Elon University, and I will always consider her a mentor in the field of student affairs and life. She has taught me how to approach our work with intentionality, professionalism, and most importantly, with humility and heart.
Your first job
Wendy’s
Favorite vacation destination
Outer Banks, N.C.
Favorite movie
“Life Is Beautiful”
Something about you that would surprise our readers
“I don’t like bacon. People always think that’s weird!”
What you most appreciate about Owensboro
“Its proximity to my family (that’s really nice after living so far away for so long) and the fact that there’s always something to do!”