Master of Arts Higher Education | Today at 乱伦视频 | 乱伦视频 /u/news Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:21:56 -0400 en-US hourly 1 Learning, leading, and giving back: 乱伦视频 employees graduate LatinxEd Fellowship /u/news/2025/12/10/learning-leading-and-giving-back-elon-employees-graduate-latinxed-fellowship/ Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:16:51 +0000 /u/news/?p=1035025 Great leadership grows through connection, courage and purposeful learning. This season, two members of the 乱伦视频 community exemplified these qualities. Two 乱伦视频 employees have joined a statewide network of advocates working to advance educational access for Latine communities after graduating from the LatinxEd Fellowship in High Point at the top of November.

The multi-month fellowship offers growth and collective healing for Latine educators and organizers committed to equity. It equips Latine advocates across North Carolina with tools to remove barriers and build a thriving future, honoring identity and lived experience.

Manny Campos, assistant director of college success for the 乱伦视频 Academy, said he entered the fellowship looking to stay connected to the community that shaped him.

鈥淚 wanted to participate in the LatinxEd Fellowship because I wanted to stay rooted in my community. Especially in a space where there aren鈥檛 many people who look like me鈥 Campos said. 鈥淚n turn, I wanted to make my mark and show the work that I am doing. I also wanted to see the work people are doing throughout North Carolina that supports Latine students.鈥

Through the 乱伦视频 Academy, Campos supports first-generation and low-income students on their college journey. He shared that the fellowship retreat offered a powerful reminder of his purpose.

鈥淭he Fellowship retreat was very grounding and energizing,” he said. “It was so nice to be surrounded by people who care about the Latine community and advocate for those who don鈥檛 always have a voice. It served as a reminder of why I do the work that I do.鈥

Similarly, Stephanie Hern谩ndez Rivera, assistant professor in the Master of Arts in Higher Education program and Emerging Professor in the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education, also completed the fellowship. She learned about it from a colleague and former fellow, Luis Garay, who encouraged her to apply.

From left to right: Luis Garay (Director of the Gender and LGBTQIA Center at 乱伦视频), Stephanie Hern谩ndez Rivera, and Manny Campos.

Her research focuses on the experiences of students of color in higher education. She saw the fellowship as an opportunity to enhance her advocacy for Latine students in North Carolina.

鈥淔or me, it鈥檚 important that my work continues to speak back to the communities I am trying to serve,鈥 Hern谩ndez Rivera said. 鈥淎dvocating for Latine students is central to this work.鈥

She added that the retreat emphasized a shared commitment to collective progress.

鈥淏ringing together Latine people from across the state to consider how we facilitate educational access was a powerful demonstration of community and solidarity. Even as Latine people, we have varied experiences. Our willingness to learn from and with one another is a testament to our desire to understand each other to best serve our students.鈥

For both fellows, graduation marked more than just a ceremony鈥攊t brought pride and momentum. Campos was selected as one of two fellows to speak during the event, where he shared his experiences, key accomplishments, and the impact the Fellowship had on his growth.

鈥淚 felt so empowered getting to share my thoughts and my story with others,” Campos said. “This set the stage for what was a successful Fellowship journey. It marked the end of an emotional and thought-provoking adventure I’ll never forget.鈥

Man standing and holding microphone at a podium speaking to a group of attendees sitting in front of him.
Manny Campos shares his story and reflections as one of the selected speakers at the LatinxEd Fellowship graduation in High Point, North Carolina.

For Hern谩ndez Rivera, the moment was deeply meaningful both personally and professionally.

鈥淚t was beautiful and moving to be recognized for the work I have already done to support students as a Puerto Rican woman. I am inspired to continue on that road,” she said.

LatinxEd’s mission is to dismantle barriers to educational access for Latine communities. The group partners with advocates across the state to launch mentorship programs, organize workshops, and host networking events for students. Campos and Hern谩ndez Rivera return to campus with renewed purpose and strengthened skills from the fellowship.

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‘Shaking the Table’ amplifies unheard voices in higher education /u/news/2025/11/17/shaking-the-table-amplifies-unheard-voices-in-higher-education/ Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:23:15 +0000 /u/news/?p=1033643 The idea for 鈥淪haking the Table: Survival and Healing Amongst Identity Center Practitioners鈥 began, as many inspirational ideas do, with a conversation.

In discussing the nation鈥檚 social and political climate surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion, Stephanie Hernandez Rivera, assistant professor in the Master of Higher Education Program and Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education Emerging Professor, and Jonathan A. McElderry, dean of Student Inclusive Excellence and assistant professor, reflected on the need for scholarship to include the testimonies of those doing the work in identity-based centers.

鈥淥ne thing that鈥檚 missing from scholarship is the actual stories of people who have worked in those spaces,鈥 McElderry said. 鈥淲e鈥檝e read about identity-based centers in scholarship, but rarely do you get to hear the actual voices of those who lived it.鈥

That conversation laid the foundation for the book, serving as a collection that amplifies the voices of practitioners often left out of academic narratives.

The power of collective voice

Across 18 chapters, 鈥淪haking the Table: Survival and Healing Amongst Identity Center Practitioners鈥 lifts the lived experiences of practitioners working across identity-based centers, including Black, Asian American, Latinx, multicultural, women鈥檚, undocumented students, and gender and sexuality centers. Stories explore how professionals navigate grief, burnout, resistance and renewal.

Book cover for Shaking the Table: Survival and Healing Amongst Identity Center Practitioners. The background is a deep purple, with the title in large pink gradient lettering. Smaller white text lists the editors, Stephanie Hernandez Rivera and Jonathan A. McElderry, and notes a foreword by Jordan Shelby West. The series header 鈥淚dentity & Practice in Higher Education 鈥 Student Affairs鈥 appears at the top.These narratives embody what McElderry calls 鈥渢he power of the collective and community.鈥

鈥淲e can鈥檛 do this alone or in silos,鈥 McElderry said. 鈥淭he power of the collective and community is what moves the work forward. When we collaborate, students, campuses and communities all grow stronger.鈥

Echoing McElderry鈥檚 perspective, Hernandez Rivera expressed, 鈥淲e鈥檙e part of a larger legacy of people committed to supporting the experiences of historically marginalized groups,鈥 she said. 鈥淭his project reminds us that we have our own knowledge and assets that sustain those efforts.鈥

That legacy runs deep for both editors, which is rooted in their shared history and the experiences that first shaped their work.

A full-circle moment

For Hernandez Rivera and McElderry, the book is deeply personal. The idea traces back to their time working together at the University of Missouri during the 2015 campus protests that brought national attention to racial justice in higher education.

鈥淲hen we were at Mizzou, we didn鈥檛 have a voice or agency in what was going on,鈥 McElderry said. 鈥淲e weren鈥檛 allowed to do press or share our experiences. After I transitioned roles in 2016, we published our together as a way to finally give voice to what happened.鈥

鈥淪haking the Table鈥 ensures this legacy continues and that the professionals who work in identity spaces can tell their stories.

Reflecting on that time, Hernandez Rivera described working on the book as both poetic and vindicating.

鈥淭his feels like a full-circle moment,鈥 she said. 鈥淢aybe the space we wanted ten years ago is the space we鈥檙e now creating through this project.鈥

When stories become strength

While 鈥淪haking the Table鈥 highlights practitioners’ experiences, its deeper impact lies in what those stories make possible 鈥 connection, healing and truth through storytelling. For McElderry and Hernandez Rivera, storytelling isn鈥檛 just reflection, it鈥檚 resistance and restoration.

The book鈥檚 strength lies in the vulnerability and courage its contributors demonstrate in allowing themselves to be seen. Through storytelling, identity center professionals honor the past, affirm the present and imagine new possibilities.

鈥淲riting this chapter was vulnerable,鈥 Luis Garay, contributor and 乱伦视频鈥檚 director of the Gender and LGBTQIA Center, said. 鈥淚 was sharing parts of my story that aren鈥檛 often talked about. That vulnerability was new for me.鈥

Building on that idea, Hernandez Rivera describes how connection is a driving force behind her decision to tell her story.

鈥淥ne reason I write the kind of scholarship I do is to create points of connection for people who might otherwise feel isolated,鈥 she said. 鈥淐ollective storytelling reminds us that what we feel and experience is valid and valuable.鈥

At its heart, 鈥淪haking the Table鈥 is grounded in collective storytelling. Each chapter challenges silence, reclaims agency and reminds readers that using their voice is itself a radical act.

鈥淧eople will see the joy and the pain. Many of those in these roles carry a lot they don鈥檛 share. The book exposes that quiet endurance. And that鈥檚 what makes it powerful.鈥

A legacy that continues

鈥淪haking the Table鈥 continues the legacy Hernandez Rivera and McElderry began years ago, ensuring that identity center professionals are seen, heard and valued.

鈥淚t鈥檚 ironic,鈥 McElderry said. 鈥淭his book is being released 10 years to the month after the Mizzou protests. It鈥檚 a moment to stop and reflect on how much has changed 鈥 some for good, some for bad 鈥 and how far we鈥檝e come in centering humanity in this work.鈥

鈥淪haking the Table鈥 will be released on Nov. 24 and available for .

The work doesn鈥檛 end with the final chapter. Hernandez Rivera and McElderry have shared that a second volume is already in the works, as there are still more stories to tell. They continue to advocate for identity center professionals through ongoing scholarship, media and conversation, including an upcoming episode of the podcast, set to release Wednesday, Nov. 26.

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Stephanie Hernandez selected as an ACPA Emerging Scholar-Designee /u/news/2025/09/19/stephanie-hernandez-selected-as-an-acpa-emerging-scholar-designee/ Fri, 19 Sep 2025 20:36:59 +0000 /u/news/?p=955391 headshot of Stephanie HernandezStephanie Hernandez, assistant professor of education and the Dr. Jo Watts Williams Emerging Professor, was awarded $3,000 from the American College Personnel Association (ACPA) and named a 2025-2027 Emerging Scholar-Designee.

Her work focuses on her desire to empower, uplift and heal marginalized communities. These grant funds will provide travel to the ACPA conference, where she will present a聽pre-convention workshop, developed with a senior scholar, that supports the work of those in identity centers. Additionally, she plans to聽submit an article to Developments – ACPA’s聽quarterly online publication – based on her research working with identity center practitioners of Color.

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Lak茅 Laosebikan-Buggs named Triad Business Journal 鈥楲eader in Diversity鈥 /u/news/2025/06/12/lake-laosebikan-buggs-named-triad-business-journal-leader-in-diversity/ Thu, 12 Jun 2025 19:48:29 +0000 /u/news/?p=1020010 When she isn鈥檛 teaching or innovating programs at 乱伦视频鈥檚 graduate schools, you鈥檒l find Lak茅 Laosebikan-Buggs surrounded by students.

She circulates halls and common areas, smiling and waving at familiar faces, sparking new relationships with her easy humor and boisterous laugh. She welcomes them in, counsels them, hears and advocates for them. 乱伦视频’s inaugural director of inclusive excellence for graduate and professional programs recognizes the simple fact: We all want to belong. And she has the magic touch to foster that belonging.

鈥淒r. Buggs truly has a way with people. When you see her in the halls, there is rarely a time when she doesn鈥檛 stop to talk to a student, professor or staff member. She isn鈥檛 just talking to make light conversation, but cares about all the interactions she has,鈥 said Gianna Landrum L鈥25, an 乱伦视频 Law Diversity Fellow 鈥 a program Buggs established to enhance inclusive excellence at the law school and in the legal profession. 鈥淚鈥檓 in awe of her ability to connect with those whose identities she does not share because she makes the effort to learn.鈥

This month, Buggs was recognized with a . The annual awards honor professionals who champion inclusive excellence in workplaces, across the community and beyond. She will join other honorees and their guests at a June 12 reception at the N.C. A&T University Student Center ballroom and be featured in a June 27 special issue.

A wide view of a class in a roundtable discussion with a professor gesturing toward a guest speaker.
Lak茅 Laosebikan-Buggs, center, the director of inclusive excellence for graduate and professional programs, introduces former District Court Judge Marcus Shields, right, during a discussion in 乱伦视频 Law’s Depictions of Discrimination course on May 6, 2025.

To those who鈥檝e worked closely with Buggs 鈥 in the Division of Inclusive Excellence, at 乱伦视频 Law, the School of Health Sciences, the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education and the Love School of Business 鈥 Buggs’ recognition is no surprise.

鈥淟ak茅 is a wonderful resource and provides valuable support for 乱伦视频鈥檚 graduate students,鈥 said Rebecca Kohn, provost and vice president of academic affairs. 鈥淪he creates an environment where they are welcomed and heard, and we all benefit from her perspectives. Through vital conversations in graduate programs across 乱伦视频, students are prepared to serve the communities and clients they will engage with during their careers.鈥

She creates an environment where they are welcomed and heard, and we all benefit from her perspectives. Through vital conversations in graduate programs across 乱伦视频, students are prepared to serve the communities and clients they will engage with during their careers.

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Rebecca Kohn

Randy Williams, vice president for inclusive excellence and associate professor of education, said Buggs鈥 effective advocacy for graduate and professional students allowed the university to be more conscious of their needs, 鈥減ositioning 乱伦视频 to make decisions that enable them to flourish.鈥 Williams was a 2021 Leader in Diversity honoree.

鈥淟ak茅 exudes genuine warmth and empathy, which are powerful tools for engaging those whom she encounters. In turn, people are quick to trust her in guiding their decisions and accessing the many resources 乱伦视频 offers,鈥 Williams said.

Passionate advocacy, unwavering support

To hear Buggs tell it, there鈥檚 no secret to what she does.

鈥淓verybody can do this work. You don鈥檛 need a title,鈥 she reflected recently. 鈥淲e change the whole experience for our students when each of us is invested in their well-being and belonging.鈥

Listening goes a long way. Buggs watches for areas where students may struggle, attends to the challenges they face entering professional life or preparing for a career change, and searches for ways to support them in and out of the classroom. She is especially cognizant of obstacles students from marginalized communities may face as they pursue advancement in their careers.

Beneath her warm exterior lies a passionate commitment to changing and challenging systems. Students discover this when they seek mentorship in profoundly difficult and traumatic experiences. Buggs not only supports them, but elevates critical issues for transformational conversations among faculty, staff and students that lead to reconciliation and growth.

She inspires others to take up this work by modeling what inclusive leadership looks like. Through her example, she makes equity work feel not just necessary, but possible and worthwhile.

Zac Ormond G鈥23, assistant professor of physical therapy

In her teaching, she encourages interdisciplinary work that centers inclusive excellence across professions and is 鈥渃ommitted to providing classroom experiences that are inclusive by design and in application.鈥

Students feel that support and gain valuable insights from her guidance.

Zac Ormond G鈥23 first met Buggs as a student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program on the school of Health Science鈥檚 Diversity Committee. Later chairing that committee, Buggs 鈥渉elped me refine my leadership skills, and her example showed me what it means to lead with both conviction and compassion,鈥 he said. Now an assistant professor of physical therapy in 乱伦视频鈥檚 program and a Northwestern University Sports Division 1 Fellow, he continues to seek her wisdom.

鈥淪he inspires others to take up this work by modeling what inclusive leadership looks like. Through her example, she makes equity work feel not just necessary, but possible and worthwhile,鈥 Ormond said.

Since arriving at 乱伦视频 in 2021, some of Buggs鈥 achievements include:

  • Innovating and contributing to professional identity workshops that aid graduate and professional students in establishing themselves within their chosen fields, such as Acorn to Oak at 乱伦视频 Law and Confronting Bias in the Clinical Learning Environment at the School of Health Sciences.
  • Working with students, faculty and staff to establish the 乱伦视频 Law Professional Closet for access to business attire for interviews and early careers, as well as prayer rooms for various faiths and a lactation room for new mothers.
  • Spearheading book clubs that spark reflection and discussion among students around timely subjects and diverse perspectives of the world.
  • Developing and teaching courses that investigate how society grapples with different identities and how individuals can effect change.
  • Creating social events and networking activities that create community among graduate students that include game nights, cultural outings and meetings with President Connie Ledoux Book.

What others say about Buggs鈥 impact on the 乱伦视频 community:

鈥淟ak茅 is a passionate advocate for students, with a deep commitment to creating the types of inclusive environments that are essential for the success and thriving of all students. The graduate student population at 乱伦视频 is spread across multiple academic programs with very different schedules and student needs. Lak茅 offers a common touchpoint for all of them in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment.鈥 鈥 Jon Dooley, vice president for student life and associate professor of education

鈥淲ithin the first week of her arrival at 乱伦视频, Lak茅 took on the charge to increase visibility and services for graduate and professional students. As a faculty advisor to the School of Health Sciences鈥 Student Diversity Committee, she helps them create meaningful events for supporting and educating healthcare students in the care of diverse patients and colleagues.鈥 鈥揗elissa Scales, associate professor of physical therapy education

鈥淟ak茅 has a huge capacity to bring people in and bring people together. She loves people, loves to see them thrive and be successful, and that motivates her. She challenges students to recognize their own agency and power to make change.鈥 鈥 Stacie Dooley, 乱伦视频 Law assistant dean of career and student development

鈥淪he builds trust and relationships by making herself available, being her authentic self and empowering students to use their voice. I have seen her give solid counsel to students who were struggling or who needed direction. The nature of her position as a student affairs professional rather than their program chair or advisor gives her the opportunity to be a true safe space for students.鈥 鈥 Kim Stokes, associate professor of physician assistant studies and department chair/program director for the Department of Physician Assistant Studies

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Graduate students tasked with promoting ‘belief, belonging, behavior’ /u/news/2025/05/22/graduate-students-tasked-with-finding-belief-belonging-behavior/ Thu, 22 May 2025 21:18:16 +0000 /u/news/?p=1017511

As Kevin Trapani is quick to note, there’s a certain paradox to life in 2025: global poverty and rates of disease are declining, educational access is expanding, and technology has made communication instant and knowledge more accessible than at any point in human history.

Kevin Trapani, the father of three 乱伦视频 graduates and an executive-in-residence in the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, delivered the Commencement address on May 21 to graduate students in 乱伦视频’s Class of 2025.

That doesn’t include advancements in medicine, clean energy, and global cooperation.

So then why is there a rise in loneliness, anxiety, division, and despair? What explains the growing violence, political instability, and economic uncertainty now taking a toll on many people? And what’s to be done?

“Well, if you鈥檝e earned an advanced degree in education, I want you to teach character,” Trapani told candidates for master’s degrees who celebrated their 乱伦视频 graduation on May 21, 2025. “And, if you鈥檝e earned an advanced degree in business, I want you to teach鈥 character.”

乱伦视频 conferred graduate degrees on 85 students representing five programs at 乱伦视频 – the Master of Science in Accounting, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Business Analytics, Master of Education in Innovation, and Master of Arts in Higher Education programs – inside an Alumni Gym filled with family, friends, and classmates.

In delivering the Commencement address, Trapani – a retired insurance executive and entrepreneur, executive-in-residence in the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, and the father of three 乱伦视频 alumni – suggested practices聽“that can anchor you in a chaotic world.”

  • Belief: 鈥淣ow let me be clear: Belief doesn鈥檛 require religion. But it does require intention. It requires the choice to say, 鈥楾his is what I stand for. This is what I will sacrifice for. This is who I will be when no one is watching.鈥櫬 Belief is not abstract. It informs our choices. It shapes how we live. It gives us the courage to keep going in tough times. And today, in a world that too often confuses distraction with direction, belief is more necessary than ever.”
  • Belonging: 鈥淭o bring people together, to find and build purpose-centered community, give of yourself. Spend your time, talent and treasure on the essential issues of human need: Feed the hungry. House the homeless. Care for children. Welcome the stranger. In that work, you鈥檒l meet people who will challenge and shape you 鈥 and who will come to love you and give your life meaning.鈥
  • Behavior: 鈥淚鈥檓 asking you 鈥 I鈥檓 expecting you 鈥 to change the world. I know you can only lead from where you stand 鈥 but you must lead. Your privilege is power and know this: power is not a bludgeon. It鈥檚 a blessing. Not something you use to dominate, but something that demands that you give. …聽Find a powerful partner and build a family. Practice your faith. Support your schools. Find and speak the truth 鈥 not just the trending soundbite. Sit with someone and really listen. Don鈥檛 choose the easy way. Do hard things. Beautiful things. Love one another. Because that鈥檚 where meaning lives.鈥
Micaela Acosta G’25 delivered a message of appreciation on behalf of all graduate students awarded master’s degrees by 乱伦视频 on May 21, 2025.

Trapani has been an executive-in-residence at 乱伦视频 since 2022 and lectures on topics related to innovation, ethical leadership and stakeholder capitalism. Before his corporate retirement in 2024, he was co-founder, president and CEO of The Redwoods Group, the largest insurance provider dedicated to protecting youth-serving organizations in the country by working to prevent the sexual abuse of children in institutional settings, drowning prevention, transportation, and elevation risk safety

A 1979 Duke University graduate with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in political science, Trapani is a member and past chair of the Advisory Committee for Duke University鈥檚 Fuqua School of Business Center for Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship.

He has also been the social entrepreneur in residence at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, chair of the board of North Carolina Public Radio, chair of the board of the United Way of the Greater Triangle (N.C.) and chair of the North Carolina Workforce Development Commission.

鈥淵ou. Are. 乱伦视频,鈥 Trapani reminded graduates. 鈥淭hose three words carry weight more than a diploma, a title, or a r茅sum茅 ever will because to be 乱伦视频 means you鈥檝e been formed in a community that believes in purpose and that values knowledge, yes 鈥 but also character 鈥 and that believes we are not simply here to succeed, but to serve.鈥

The evening Commencement celebration also featured remarks by 乱伦视频 President Connie Ledoux Book, Provost Rebecca Kohn, and Micaela Acosta G鈥25, a candidate for the Master of Education from Argentina who delivered a message of appreciation on behalf of her classmates.

Acosta reminded her classmates that they stood on a bridge between two worlds: 鈥渢he world that shaped us and the world we are about to shape.鈥 聽Commencement, she said, is a time to ignite courage for what lies ahead.

Among the many important lessons learned while enrolled in graduate studies, she added, there was one most meaningful to her.

鈥淲e never stop learning,鈥 Acosta said. 鈥淚n education, we are not simply teaching content or following a curriculum. We are shaping lives. We are inspiring futures. We are making an impact that might only reveal itself years from now when a student recognizes us at the grocery store, even if we don’t recognize them. And that, truly, is the power of education.

鈥淭oday is not just a ceremony. It is a declaration that says, 鈥榃e are ready.鈥 Ready to make mistakes. Ready to take risks. Ready to lead with heart and innovation. 乱伦视频 has not only taught us new perspectives, methods, and strategies 鈥 it has reawakened our belief in the profound impact of what we do.

Today is not just a ceremony. It is a declaration that says, 鈥榃e are ready.鈥 Ready to make mistakes. Ready to take risks. Ready to lead with heart and innovation. 乱伦视频 has not only taught us new perspectives, methods, and strategies 鈥 it has reawakened our belief in the profound impact of what we do.

– Micaela Acosta G’25

鈥淎s we step forward into the world, into classrooms, organizations, businesses, and communities, may we remember that success is not just measured in titles or accolades, but in the lives we touch, the hope we plant, and the courage we inspire.鈥

乱伦视频 President Connie Ledoux Book

Book concluded the ceremony with a charge to graduates to be resilient and steadfast “like the mighty oak for which 乱伦视频 is named.”聽The strengths and skills gained at 乱伦视频 should be used to make a difference in the world.

鈥淎s we envision each of you launching into what’s next in the exciting career path ahead, carry 乱伦视频 and our values with you always,鈥 Book said. 鈥淗onesty: be truthful in your work and in your relationships. Integrity: be trustworthy, fair, and ethical. 鈥㏑esponsibility: be accountable for your actions. Respect: be simple, and value the dignity of each person.

鈥淯se 乱伦视频’s values when you encounter the inevitable hard choices. Lean on them and each other when you need to reason things out. Remember, we are forever bound together by these values: you, me, your classmates, faculty, and staff. You are lifelong members of the 乱伦视频 family.

鈥淐ongratulations, Class of 2025, and long live 乱伦视频!鈥

Candidates for the Master of Science in Accounting

Nick Amatulli
B.S., 乱伦视频

Juliet Baudoin
B.S., 乱伦视频

Cailin Daigle
B.S., 乱伦视频

Kelly Degnan
B.S., 乱伦视频

Emma Flynn
B.S., 乱伦视频

Wise Halverson
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Anna Hamner
B.S., 乱伦视频

Josh Hazlett
B.S., 乱伦视频

Blake Kessel
B.S., 乱伦视频

Tabitha Knedeisen
B.S., 乱伦视频

Vincent Ruggiero
B.S., 乱伦视频

Charlotte Scully
B.S., 乱伦视频

Allison Silvernale
B.S., 乱伦视频

Juliet Walker
B.A., 乱伦视频

Candidates for the Master of Science in Business Analytics

Ananya Agrawal
B.A., Assumption University

Alan Allred
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Robert Barcello
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Craig Brandstetter
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Nicholas Buchholz
B.A., Fordham University

Juan Callejo-Ropero
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Adam Cheifetz
B.A., 乱伦视频

Mackenzie Deming
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Yadira Fernandez-Delgado
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Annie Grantais
B.S., NEOMA Business School

Cece Guyader
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Narjis Jebali
B.S., SKEMA Business School

Jazlyn Jefferson
B.S., Hampton University

Mikayla Jones
B.A., Catawba College

Charline Kergueris
B.S., NEOMA Business School

Madeline Ludwig
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Mariana Martinez
B.B.A., Christian University

Will McCoy
B.A., 乱伦视频

Simone Royal George
M.Ed., Washington University

Annabelle Schall Faucheux
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Victor Stromsten
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Liz Sulley
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Madison Synowiec
B.S., 乱伦视频

James Thomas Tegler Jr.
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Dylan Tucker
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Candidates for the Master of Business Administration

John Acebu
B.A., Xavier University

Addie Ackley
B.S., West Virginia University
M.S., West Virginia University
J.D., 乱伦视频

Jaclyn Burke
B.S., University of South Carolina
J.D., 乱伦视频

Davis Cheek
B.S.B.A., 乱伦视频

Cuyler Field
B.S., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
J.D., 乱伦视频

Robert Floyd
B.S., The University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Sarah Fuller
B.A., High Point University
J.D., 乱伦视频

Kendra Haskins
B.A., Duke University

Tarah Holland
B.S., North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

Steven Lawrence Losiewicz
B.B.A., Greensboro College

Emily Lyons
B.S., Western Carolina University

Brooke McCormick
B.A., Monmouth College
J.D., 乱伦视频

Aaron Mellette
B.S., 乱伦视频

Eduardo Mendes Flores
B.A., Texas A&M University
J.D., 乱伦视频

Ayo Onasanya
B.A., 乱伦视频
J.D., 乱伦视频

Moni Pao
B.S., North Carolina State University

William McGeachy Roberson
B.A., Davidson College

William Rock
B.S., Trident University

Ryan Xavier JaNeil Sanders
B.S., 乱伦视频

Patrick Schwartz
B.S., University of Hartford

Jon Seaton
B.A., 乱伦视频

Edith Sanchez Smith
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Sean Walker
B.A., 乱伦视频

Daniel Warren
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Aaron Whetstone
B.S., Clemson University

Katie Wolfe
B.B.A., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Candidates for the Master of Arts in Higher Education

Emma Rose Varner Calhoun
B.A., Duke University

Seth Lawrence Lasher
B.S., Kentucky Wesleyan College

Logan Montana Morral
B.A., York College of Pennsylvania

Cassandra McLean North
B.A., Roger Williams University

Rebecca Emily Osborne
B.A., North Carolina State University

Asmaa Zaitoun
B.S., University of Jordan
M.A., University of Jordan

Candidates for the Master of Education

Micaela Acosta
Bachelor鈥檚, Universidad Nacional de Catamarca

Huanhuan Cai
B.A., Southwest University of Political Science and Law

Rocio Castillo Garcia
Bachelor鈥檚, Escuela Normal Particular Autorizada in Queretaro

Erika Conde Garcia
Bachelor鈥檚, Universidad Del Valle

Hailey Firmin
B.A., 乱伦视频

Lu Li
B.A., Tonghua Normal University

Rebecca McLamb
B.A., 乱伦视频

Ana Gabriela Pe帽aranda
Bachelor鈥檚, Universidad de Cuenca

Yuli Andrea Peralta Verano
Bachelor鈥檚, Institucion Universitaria Colombo Americana

Zo毛 Rein
B.A., 乱伦视频

Matthew R. Trez
B.A., 乱伦视频

Nan Ye
Bachelor鈥檚, Shenyang Normal University in Shenyang

Qianhan Yi
Bachelor鈥檚, China West Normal University

Yuqi Yuan
Bachelor鈥檚, Yunnan Normal University,
Foreign Languages College in Kunming

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Master of Higher Education students present at national conference /u/news/2025/04/18/master-of-higher-education-students-present-at-national-conference/ Fri, 18 Apr 2025 15:47:32 +0000 /u/news/?p=1013053 Ellie MacMillan G’26 stood at the front of a packed room in New Orleans, ready to present at one of the largest student affairs conferences in the country. Among the crowd? Her mentor from her undergraduate institution. Her mentor from 乱伦视频. And a lot of eyes.

Three people pose next to a presentation screen
乱伦视频 faculty member Stephanie Hernandez Rivera with Ellie McMillan G’26 and Cass North G’25 at NASPA.

鈥淚t felt like a full-circle moment,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t was an incredible opportunity to showcase my skills and reflect on how far I鈥檝e grown.鈥

This spring, six students from 乱伦视频鈥檚 Master of Higher Education (MHE) program had the opportunity to present at two of the field鈥檚 leading national conferences. The ACPA Convention was held in Long Beach, California in February, followed by the NASPA Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, in March.

For all six students, it was their first time presenting at a national level. They co-presented with MHE faculty member and Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education Emerging Professor Stephanie Hernandez Rivera, sharing a project rooted in their course “Transition to Adulthood in the Context of College and Culture.” As part of the course, students created visual art projects that reflected their own undergraduate development, using student development theories to interpret and explain their experiences. Their conference presentations invited participants to consider how theory intersects with identity, culture, and personal growth.

A person stands at a podium with a presentation screen next to them
Ellie McMillan G’26 presenting her project at the ACPA Conference.

Carolina Martinez-Cuin G’26 and Cici Salazar G’26, along with Emma Calhoun G’25 and Logan Morral G’25, attended and presented at ACPA. At NASPA, McMillian and Cass North G’25 represented the program.

Each student brought a unique perspective to the conference sessions and left with a renewed sense of confidence.

鈥淚t was powerful being able to speak to a larger audience,鈥 Morral said.

鈥淚 feel confident. I feel I can do anything else,” said Salazar. “I feel I can go to another conference and present.鈥

Calhoun and Martinez-Cuin shared how meaningful the experience felt for them, both personally and professionally. North noted how helpful it was to learn the behind-the-scenes work of putting together a proposal and presenting alongside an experienced faculty member.

Professional development is a core part of the MHE experience. In addition to attending national and local conferences, students participate in webinars, colloquia and guided professional planning with faculty. These opportunities help them prepare for roles across the field of higher education.

As the semester continues, students are already brainstorming ideas for future proposals, with support from faculty mentors.

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乱伦视频 higher education master’s students travel to S茫o Paulo, Brazil for Winter Term 2025 /u/news/2025/03/06/elon-higher-education-masters-students-travel-to-sao-paulo-brazil-for-winter-term-2025/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 14:37:26 +0000 /u/news/?p=1009045 Members of the Master of Arts in Higher Education program at 乱伦视频, along with Stephanie Hernandez Rivera, assistant professor of education and Jonathan McElderry, dean of student inclusive excellence and assistant professor, traveled to S茫o Paulo, Brazil during Winter Term 2025.

The goal of the trip was to explore comprehensive internationalization and higher education in the Brazilian context, with a special focus on how students can form collaborative and reciprocal relationships with organizations and institutions.

A group of people pose in front of an off-white building
Students in the Master of Arts in Higher Education (MHE) program at 乱伦视频 traveled to Brazil for Winter Term 2025.

Their trip, coordinated with CET Academic Programs, included visits to universities such as, Funda莽茫o Escola de Sociologia e Pol铆tica de S茫o Paulo, Universidade de S茫o Paulo and Escola Superior de Propaganda e Marketing. Students also visited the Museu da L铆ngua Poruguesa to learn more about the complexities of Portuguese in Brasil, which included understanding how the African diaspora and Arabic culture has influenced Portuguese language, as well as organizations like Casa Sueli Carneiro which uplifts the legacy of activists Sueli Carneiro and the experiences of Black Brazilians.

Cass North, the graduate apprentice in the Global Education Center, shared that many of the organizations they visited in Brazil 鈥渨ork to increase educational access and opportunities to underrepresented people鈥 while also 鈥減reserving and uplifting Black memory that has been globally silenced.鈥 The most impactful part of the experience for North was when she was able to connect with students and staff from EDUCAFRO, an organization that works to increase access to education for Black Brazilian students.

Seth Lasher, a student in the Master of Arts in Higher Education program who is the graduate apprentice in the Student Professional Development Center, said that exploring S茫o Paulo, Brazil, and building connections with the communities he interacted with allowed him to learn more about how higher education institutions and organizations in Brazil 鈥渘avigate issues of access, equity and governance鈥 and 鈥渁ddress diversity, inclusion, and systemic challenges.鈥 Lasher shared that seeing these efforts in practice allowed him to think more critically about how different issues and policies shape higher education outcomes globally.

A groupi of people walk up steps in a building with stained glass
The Master of Arts in Higher Education (MHE) program at 乱伦视频 traveled to Brazil for Winter Term 2025.

Students also reflected on how they would take what they learned during their trip and integrate it into their work in the United States. Rebecca Osborne, graduate apprentice in New Student Programs, shared that as she was thinking critically, she was 鈥渄rawing connections between our experiences, the history we are learning, and how broader social systems of oppression.鈥

Students were further able to draw on the new knowledge and insights gained through their final assignment for the course, a grant proposal focused on collaborative initiatives that facilitate capacity-building and reciprocity between an organization/institution visited in S茫o Paulo.

Students presented these proposal ideas to faculty and peers at the Master of Arts in Higher Education Colloquium. Colloquium is a time when Master of Arts in Higher Education students and faculty gather to discuss current issues, trends and best practices in higher education. Within Colloquium, students were able to share about the importance of decolonization in our internationalization efforts, the importance of capacity-building in international partnerships and how to facilitate collaborations that are mutually beneficial. Peers who have yet to partake in the study away experience were able to gain a basic understanding of internationalization and consider how they might build on the knowledge their peers鈥 shared as they prepare for the Theory and Practice of Global Education course this coming fall.

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Jon Dooley recognized for leadership and contributions by national student affairs association /u/news/2024/09/10/jon-dooley-recognized-for-leadership-and-contributions-by-national-student-affairs-association-2/ Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:57:55 +0000 /u/news/?p=994300 Jon Dooley, vice president for student life and associate professor of education at 乱伦视频, will be recognized in March 2025 as a recipient of the for his sustained leadership and contributions to student affairs and higher education.

Jon Dooley Vice President for Student Life and Associate Professor of Education
Jon Dooley, vice president for student life and associate professor of education

鈥淚 am deeply humbled and honored to receive this recognition. I鈥檓 also grateful for the unique opportunity it offers to support the NASPA Foundation, which provides vital scholarships and grants to student affairs professionals nationwide,鈥 Dooley expressed.

Pillars of the Profession recipients have demonstrated significant service to NASPA through regional or national leadership roles, created a lasting impact at their institutions and established lifetime professional distinction in student affairs and higher education.

Dooley has been a transformative leader during his tenure at 乱伦视频. Joining the university in 2014 as an assistant vice president for student life and serving as vice president since 2017, he has helped lead significant advancements in the residential campus, health and well-being, inclusive excellence, civic and political engagement, student belonging and divisional excellence. As vice president for student life, he oversees 15 departments dedicated to enhancing student learning and development, fostering mentoring relationships and nurturing a vibrant campus community. His leadership is marked by a deep commitment to students and their success.

Beyond his administrative duties, Dooley also serves as an associate professor of education, having taught courses in the master鈥檚 of higher education graduate program and the undergraduate Core Curriculum. Before joining 乱伦视频, Dooley served in various leadership roles at Marquette University and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

鈥淚 am proud to join many of my 乱伦视频 student life colleagues in advancing the field of student affairs through volunteer leadership with professional associations. To have my contributions over the course of my career recognized in this way is incredibly meaningful and motivates me to continue these efforts,鈥 Dooley said.

Dooley has made significant contributions to the profession as a volunteer leader with NASPA. He recently completed multiple terms on the NASPA Region III executive board, helping the region successfully navigate the challenges of the pandemic through his role as treasurer. He was a member of the NASPA Future of Student Affairs Task Force, which issued the in March 2022. Currently, he is a member of the James E. Scott Academy board, a group of accomplished student affairs vice presidents who provide advice and thought leadership to the NASPA President.

Dooley has been active with multiple other professional associations throughout his career, as a volunteer leader, conference presenter and consultant. For the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA), he served as the chair of the NACA Board of Directors and later as chair of the NACA Foundation Board of Trustees. In 2022 he was recognized with NACA鈥檚 highest honor, the Founders Award, for contributions to the association during more than three decades of involvement as a student and staff leader.

The is the premier professional organization for student affairs professionals. The association provides professional development, fosters research to address critical challenges and advocates for inclusive and equitable practices. Members of NASPA are united by a shared commitment to advancing higher education and guided by the association鈥檚 core principles of integrity, innovation, inclusion, and inquiry, placing students at the heart of its mission.

Dooley will be formally recognized alongside the other Pillars of the Profession during a ceremony at the NASPA Annual Meeting in March 2025, located in New Orleans, Louisiana. In the meantime, Dooley鈥檚 nominators will work with the NASPA Foundation Board to raise funds in his honor to further research and scholarship in student affairs. To make a contribution, visit the .

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Seven 乱伦视频 faculty members awarded endowed professorships /u/news/2024/08/21/seven-elon-faculty-members-awarded-endowed-professorships/ Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:30:47 +0000 /u/news/?p=991690 乱伦视频 honored seven faculty members, a record for the university, with endowed professorships during the Opening Day ceremony in Alumni Gym on Monday, Aug. 19. Each faculty member was presented with their award from a member of university, college and departmental leadership.

Rissa Trachman – J. Earl Danieley Distinguished Professorship

Rissa Trachman and Rebecca Kohn pose for photo
Rissa Trachman, professor of anthropology, with Provost Rebecca Kohn after receiving the J. Earl Danieley Distinguished Professorship, during the Opening Day ceremony on Aug. 19, 2024.

Rissa Trachman, professor of anthropology, has been honored with the J. Early Danieley Distinguished Professorship.

鈥淪ince joining 乱伦视频 in 2008, Dr. Trachman has been a dedicated teacher, scholar, and mentor who engages students, including many undergraduate researchers, in meaningful learning experiences in the classroom, the laboratory and through participation in field data collection and analysis,鈥 said Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Rebecca Kohn, about Trachman.

Kohn noted Trachman鈥檚 dedication to students 鈥 mentoring several through research projects, dissemination of research findings at professional anthropology and archeology meetings and publications with student co-authors. She has also received the 乱伦视频 College Excellence in Mentoring Award.

Her research centers on the everyday life of the ancient Maya, specifically those daily activities related to the political, ritual, economic and social aspects of the ancient city of Dos Hombres.

The J. Earl Danieley Distinguished Professorship was created by the university鈥檚 board of trustees in 1997 to honor 50 years of service to 乱伦视频 by the university鈥檚 sixth president. Trachman is the fourth faculty member to receive the honor. The professorship is awarded to an outstanding professor in any field.

When Trachman received the call from President Connie Ledoux Book notifying her that she’d be awarded the professorship, she was in Belize doing field school teaching with her longtime mentor from the University of Texas at Austin. She then called her longest mentor at 乱伦视频 — Anne Bolin, professor of anthropology emeritus.

“I knew immediately the magnitude of the coalescence of events,” said Trachman after receiving the award. “Anne is a friend, my mentor and family here in North Carolina. These are enduring relationships indeed. I’ve been fortunate to have incredible colleagues and many mentors here at 乱伦视频 past and present and I’m so grateful to have landed in a department, college and an institution that has supported me absolutely, where we focus on students and share the values of the teacher, scholar, mentor.”

Her service to the university includes the Undergraduate Research Program Advisory Committee, the Budget Committee, the Presidential Search Committee, the search committee for recently appointed dean of 乱伦视频 College, the College of Arts and Sciences, chair of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology and as the current Academic Council chair.

Trachman earned a bachelor of arts, master of arts and doctorate from the University of Texas at Austin.

Qian Xu – A.J. Fletcher Professorship

Rebcca Kohn places a medal on Qian Xu
Qian Xu, professor of strategic communications, receives the AJ Fletcher Professorship from Provost Rebecca Kohn during the Opening Day ceremony on Aug. 19, 2024. Also pictured: Ken Gaither, dean of the School of Communications and previous AJ Fletcher Professor.

Qian Xu, professor of strategic communications, has been honored with the A.J. Fletcher Professorship in Communications.

Xu joined 乱伦视频 in 2010 and her research focuses on the social and psychological effects of online technology as they relate to perception, information seeking and cognition in the context of both computer-mediated communication and human-computer interaction. Her research has been published in more than a dozen journals and she has authored and/or co-authored several book chapters.

鈥淒r. Xu is the epitome of what an 乱伦视频 faculty member should be. She is visible in the campus community and active in service. Her research productivity has few peers. She is well-liked and respected. Her commitment to her teaching and her work are infectious. She is the Lumen — a ray of light — upholding the 乱伦视频 motto of Numen Lumen,鈥 said Kenn Gaither, dean of the School of Communications and previous A.J. Fletcher Professor.

At 乱伦视频, Xu has served as the associate director of the Undergraduate Research Program, and editor-in-chief of Perspectives on Undergraduate Research and Mentoring. She has also served on the graduate council, mentored honors fellows, served on the 乱伦视频 Strategic Planning Committee and Innovation Council.

“This recognition is not just a reflection of my work but a testament to the incredible support and encouragement I have received from my colleagues within the School of Communications and beyond,” Xu said. “They are not just coworkers, but also mentors, sounding boards and sources of inspiration. Their dedication to excellence pushes me to continuously improve as a teacher, scholar and mentor.”

Prior to Gaither and Xu, Professor David Copeland, who retired in May 2021, served as the A.J. Fletcher Professor for 20 years.

Xu earned a bachelor of arts and masters of arts in journalism from Nanjing University in China in 2005 and 2010, respectively. She earned a doctorate in mass communications from Pennsylvania State University in 2010.

Jeffrey Carpenter – William S. Long Professorship

Jeffrey Long poses for a photo with Rebecca Kohn
Jeffrey Carpenter, professor of education, with Provost Rebecca Kohn, after receiving the William S. Long Professorship at the Opening Day ceremony on Aug. 19, 2024.

Professor of Education Jeffrey Carpenter is the recipient of the William S. Long Professorship.

鈥淒r. Carpenter exemplifies excellence in teaching, scholarship, and mentoring,鈥 said Kohn. 鈥淲ith over 100 publications, he is established as a thought leader in his area of expertise, currently focusing on how professional development and student learning are enhanced by social media.鈥

Carpenter came to 乱伦视频 in 2010 where he has served as the director of the 乱伦视频 Teaching Fellows program since 2014. He has received the 乱伦视频 School of Education Scholarship Award twice, the 乱伦视频 Distinguished Scholar Award and the Teacher Education Network’s Research Paper Award from the International Society for Technology in Education. Carpenter also serves on the University Curriculum Committee, the Academic Council and the Global Education Curriculum Committee.

“To those of you in this room who have been my colleagues and collaborators, I owe you deep gratitude and I hope you know that I appreciate the energy that you’ve poured into me,” said Carpenter while accepting the award Monday.

Carpenter also gave special recognition to Jennifer Fish, the former associate director of the Teaching Fellows program, who passed away in May.

“I would not be on this stage today if it wasn’t for a collaborator of the past ten years, during my time as Teaching Fellows director, Jennifer Fish,” said Carpenter “I really wish that she was here to see me receive this award because she poured a lot into me and I miss you, Jennifer. Long live 乱伦视频.”

Prior to coming to 乱伦视频, Carpenter taught English and ESOL in public and private schools in Japan, Honduras, Boston, Virginia and North Carolina. He earned a bachelor of arts from Rice University, a master of education from Harvard University and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from the University of Virginia.

The William S. Long Professorship, named for the university鈥檚 first president, was first awarded in 1968 to Robert Blake, an English faculty member who held the position until his retirement from the full-time faculty in 2008.

Rod Clare – William J. Story Sr. Professorship

Rod Clare, associate professor of history and chair of 乱伦视频鈥檚 Department of History, has been awarded the William S. Long Professorship in History, endowed by Hatcher P. Story 鈥38 and his sister Louise in honor of their father.

Clare has taught at 乱伦视频 since 2004 and specializes in women鈥檚 history, African American history and the U.S. during the early 20th century. On Monday, Professor of History and Distinguished University Professor Mary Jo Festle noted Clare is always willing to jump in wherever needed. Described as passionate about conducting research and guiding students, Clare has arranged trips with student to archival collections.

鈥(Rod) is a beloved teacher, with students rushing to sign up for his classes. As an instructor, he exudes warmth and positive energy 鈥 while insisting that students realize the complexity of people鈥檚 experiences in the past,鈥 said Festle in a pre-recorded message. 鈥淪tudents also appreciate Rod as an advisor. Whether or not a student is his official advisee, Rod鈥檚 office door is literally always open, and he stops whatever he鈥檚 doing to cheerfully assist any student who drops by.鈥

Clare earned a bachelor of arts in history from Howard University and a doctorate and master of art in history from Duke University. He was unable to attend the Opening Day event.

Jonathan Poquette – Fletcher Moore Distinguished Emerging Scholar

Hallie Hogan, Jonathan Poquette and.Rebecca Kohn
Jonathan Poquette, assistant professor of music (middle) with Hallie Hogan, chair of the Music Department (left) and Provost Rebecca Kohn at the Opening Day ceremony on Aug. 19, 2024

Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Bands Jonathan Poquette is the recipient of the Fletcher Moore Distinguished Emerging Scholar award.

Poquette joined 乱伦视频 in 2019 with the goal of 鈥渂uilding the band,鈥 but the COVID-19 pandemic created some challenges. However, it didn鈥檛 stop Poquette from continuing his work, developing creative rehearsal tactics, recruitment, alumni engagement and planning. His efforts resulted in a strong and exciting marching back for fall 2022.

鈥淲ith his positive personality and his energetic drive, Jonathan lifted the 乱伦视频 band program to new heights, eventually doubling the size of the marching band and delivering a musically proficient wind ensemble that boasts a growing membership beyond 50 students,鈥 said Hallie Hogan, associate professor of music and chair of the Music Department. 鈥淗e captured the attention of his concert band with creative and relevant interdisciplinary programming featuring world premieres and music by composers from marginalized communities.鈥

Expanding his work beyond the 乱伦视频 campus, Poquette has directed ensembles and provided lectures at several high schools and universities. He also created The 乱伦视频 Contemporary Chamber Ensemble made up of faculty and area musicians.

Poquette thanked his family for their support, noting that his parents drove from Wisconsin to attend the Opening Day ceremony.

“It’s the foundation that you’ve provided that has really helped me become the person I am today, both as an individual and a teacher and scholar,” said Poquette. “My mentors, both here on campus and throughout all of my education, thank you so much for helping me to learn the 乱伦视频 way so that we could eventually and continue to build the band, because yes, it is a passion of mine. If you haven’t seen me around with the marching band, you will come Friday, because we are eagerly awaiting our performance for Move-In Day.”

Poquette earned a bachelor of music from Southern Illinois University and a master of arts in instrumental conducting from University of Central Missouri. He holds a doctorate in musical arts, conducting from the University of Georgia.

The Fletcher Moore Distinguished Emerging Scholar Professorship was established in 2023 by alumnus Wayne T. Moore 鈥49 and his wife Elizabeth to support faculty and honor the achievements of Moore鈥檚 late brother, Fletcher Moore 鈥34. A member of 乱伦视频鈥檚 music faculty for more than 40 years, Fletcher Moore passed away in 2022. The professorship supports the teaching and research of an emerging scholar in the arts, humanities or social sciences.

Stephanie Hernandez Rivera – Dr. Jo Watts Williams Emerging Professor

Ann Bullock, Stephanie Hernandez Rivera and Rebecca Kohn
Stephanie Hernandez Rivera, assistant professor of education (middle), with Ann Bullock, dean of the Dr. Jo Watts WIlliams School of Education (left) and Provost Rebecca Kohn at the Opening Day ceremony on Aug. 19, 2024.

Assistant Professor of Education Stephanie Hernandez Rivera is the inaugural recipient of the Dr. Jo Watts Williams Emerging Professorship, in honor of the late Dr. Jo Watts Williams, vice president emerita and professor of education emerita.

The award is given to an outstanding pre-tenure faculty member who demonstrates emerging outstanding teaching, provides evidence of emerging outstanding and impactful scholarship, contributes to the life of the university and has shown evidence of being a goodwill ambassador for the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education and the university.

鈥(Hernandez Rivera) builds excellent relationships with her students and challenges them to explore and evaluate higher education from many dimensions, specifically focusing on social justice and diversity aspects of the content,鈥 said Ann Bullock, dean of the Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education.

Hernandez Rivera is in her second year as a faculty member at 乱伦视频, primarily teaching in the master of higher education program. Students praise her use of guest speakers and her ability to bring students at ease in the classroom when working through challenging course content.

“I would be remiss if I did not thank my incredible students who not only motivate me to be the best educator, but also be the best version of myself,” said Hernandez Rivera during the Opening Day ceremony. “I truly believe my life’s purpose is to be an educator and to create meaningful work that uplifts how marginalized people resist oppressive conditions in education, especially how women of color do it.”

Hernandez Rivera earned a bachelor of arts in women’s and gender studies, early childhood education and psychology from William Patterson University in 2012, a master of arts in women’s and gender studies from Rutgers University in 2014 and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy analysis from the University of Missouri in 2021. Before coming to 乱伦视频, she served as the assistant director of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Kean University and as a visiting professor of instruction at the University of South Florida.

Yidi Wu – Stella S. and John C. O鈥橞riant Developing Professor in History

Yidi Wu and Connie Book hold a plaque
Yidi Wu, assistant professor of history, receives the Stella S. and John C. O鈥橞riant Developing Professor in History from President Connie Ledoux Book during the Opening Day ceremony on Aug. 19, 2024

Yidi Wu, assistant professor of history, was awarded the Stella S. and John C. O’Briant Developing Professorship in History in 2023 but was unable to attend the Opening Day ceremony at that time. President Connie Book presented Wu with the award during Monday’s ceremony.

“Dr. Wu employs new and exciting teaching pedagogies in her classes, utilizing graphic nonfiction and role-playing game scenarios,” said Book. “Students have remarked about Dr. Wu’s innovative pedagogy and her passion for her class subjects.”

Her scholarly interests include student activism, social movements, higher education, documentary film, democracy and authoritarianism. In 2021,聽Wu was selected as a National Academy of Education/Spencer Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow supporting her research and writing about student protest movements in 1950s China.

The Stella S. and John C. O鈥橞riant Developing Professorship in History was established through a gift from the estate of John Conrad O鈥橞riant 鈥75 that was made in honor of O鈥橞riant and his mother. Michael Matthews, associate professor of history, was selected as the inaugural recipient of the professorship in 2015.

“I really appreciate the institutional support and recognition,” said Wu. “I appreciate all my colleagues and thank you 乱伦视频.”

Wu received her bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College and her master’s degree and doctorate from the University of California, Irvine.

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Alonzo Cee ’18 G鈥20 champions diversity and inclusion on Sesame Street /u/news/2024/08/12/alonzo-cee-20-champions-diversity-and-inclusion/ Mon, 12 Aug 2024 21:08:51 +0000 /u/news/?p=991116 Alonzo Cee ’18 G鈥20鈥檚 journey from 乱伦视频 to Sesame Workshop embodies the essence of purpose-driven leadership and unwavering commitment to community building.

Alonzo Cee ’18 G’20

Cee鈥檚 乱伦视频 story began unexpectedly. 鈥淚 found 乱伦视频 by chance,鈥 he said. “My travel baseball team was playing in a tournament hosted at 乱伦视频 in the summer of 2012.鈥 At the time Cee was in the process of trying to play Division 1 college baseball before a shoulder injury ended those hopes.

This was the year that began down the path to D1 college baseball – going to showcases, playing in tournaments and talking to coaches. “I ended up injuring my shoulder that next spring, which ended my hopes of playing at that level,” he said.

Even though he met 乱伦视频 thanks to baseball, Cee remained interested in attending after his injury.

鈥淚t seemed like it had a well-rounded education on top of a major, I was interested in, statistics,” he says. “After attending Phoenix Fusion weekend, an admissions weekend for students of diverse backgrounds and identities, I knew it was the school I wanted to attend.鈥

Cee went on to graduate with a bachelor of science in statistics and a minor in sport management, but he didn’t just excel academically. He also immersed himself in a plethora of extracurricular activities including playing Club Baseball, DJing on campus, joining the , Inc. and advocating within the Black Student Union.

While pursuing a master’s of higher education at 乱伦视频, Cee’s trajectory took yet another transformative turn. Guided by mentors and propelled by his own experiences, he found his calling in higher education and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) work.

Cee ’20 and his coworkers on set of Sesame Street.

This moment led him through pivotal career shifts, from Auburn University to ultimately landing at Sesame Workshop as Manager of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Sesame Workshop is the non-profit organization behind Sesame Street, the long running children’s educational program.

At Sesame Workshop, Cee is at the forefront of fostering a culture of belonging and equity. His day-to-day involves crafting and leading workshops, managing employee resource groups and curating enriching learning experiences. Drawing on his statistical background, he analyzes data to inform initiatives and policies, ensuring that Sesame Workshop remains a beacon of inclusivity

Reflecting on his journey, Cee acknowledges the challenges of pivoting careers and navigating the complexities of DEI work. 鈥淵ou get to see the best and worst that humanity has to offer, especially with everything happening in our social and political spheres.” he said. “Even through the best of intentions, mistakes are made.”

Even though DEI is not yet baked into professional life, Cee notes that there is joy to be found in seeing colleagues become their authentic selves through DEI work.

“We cannot just envision what this looks like for ourselves, we have to create policies and change culture so that ALL of us can authentically shine as we are,” he said. “Not just inviting people to the 鈥榩arty,鈥 but making sure their voices matter and hold weight.鈥

Through it all, Cee credits 乱伦视频 for providing the fertile ground where his leadership qualities flourished.

鈥淭he experiences, classes, jobs and extracurriculars I took on were one of a kind and all played a part in the person I am today,” he said.

Cee ’20 (left) and a fellow student life employee pose in their polos.

“乱伦视频 was a very well-rounded experience when you are provided with proper guidance and are given the keys to open the endless doors of opportunities,” he added. “But that is just it, the proper guidance (and maybe a little intuition) is what put me where I am today. It is the people and the community that I surrounded myself with that shaped me to be the inquisitive equity-centered leader that I am today.”

Looking ahead, Cee remains steadfast in his commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and championing equity. Balancing personal aspirations with professional endeavors, he envisions a future where wellness, community and purpose converge harmoniously.

As Cee continues to write his story, he leaves a profound message for future graduates.

鈥淢y advice would be to follow your passions and don鈥檛 sacrifice your values or who you are for the sake of a job,” he said. “Yes, we all need to earn a livable wage and pay bills, expenses, etc. However, being passionate about your work and balancing work with the other areas of your life is incredibly important. I work to live, not live to work.鈥

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