Hello

Throughout my 20+ year career in higher education, I have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing student success, building inclusive and engaging learning environments, and shaping the future of learning community programs on both a campus and national level.

 

In 2006 I worked closely with (the late, great) Dr. Howard Shapiro to create and develop the Wayne State University Learning Community Program. Since that time, I have developed, implemented, and assessed new learning communities annually, ensuring that each program is responsive to student needs and aligned with institutional goals. My leadership has not only increased student engagement and retention but also fostered strong faculty-student partnerships. By creating innovative training sessions, workshops, and professional development opportunities, I have strengthened the capacity of faculty, staff, and peer mentors to deliver transformative student experiences. In my 20 years of Learning Community work at WSU, the WSU Learning Community Program has supported 81,756 students.

 

My influence extends beyond my campus. I have served the National Learning Community Association (NLCA) in multiple leadership roles, including Secretary of the Council, President-Elect, President of the Association for 2024, and now as the Past-President in 2025. In these positions, I have contributed significantly to the advancement of the field, advocating for best practices, assessment-informed strategies, and equity-minded approaches to learning communities nationwide. My work has had a direct impact on how institutions conceptualize and deliver student-centered, data-informed learning community programs.

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My contributions also include LC-specific consulting nationally, such as my work with Lamar University, where I conducted a needs assessment, designed outcomes, and facilitated training for more than 60 faculty and staff. Through this project, I helped the institution lay a foundation for sustainable learning communities, demonstrating my ability to elevate practice across diverse contexts. I have also offered LC consultation services to the University of Michigan Dearborn, Schoolcraft Community College in Livonia, Michigan, and Northland Pioneer College in Holbrook, Arizona.

 

My leadership is deeply grounded in values of inclusion, equity, and cultural responsiveness. I am a certified leader in Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, a facilitator of DEI Dialogue Circles, and a participant in intensive anti-racism allyship training. These commitments are evident in my approach to program design, where I consistently advocate for practices that honor student identity, build belonging, and support diverse pathways to success.

 

I have dedicated my career to advancing student success through innovative program development, assessment-driven improvement, inclusive practices, and national service.