Examples of GROWth from staff & faculty involved with SEOP at Southern.
We hope to inspire & remind you that we are in this journey together with you. Welcome to Southern!
Kyle Augustine is a UAP Graduate Intern. He is a first-generation student of the 2013 Southern Education Opportunity Program (SEOP) and a graduate of SCSU in 2019. He is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Education. During his undergraduate years, he was involved in a variety of clubs and organizations around campus, including the Black Student Union, OLAS & N.A.A.C.P. He was also the President of the Caribbean Student Association & a founding brother of Brotherhood of Scholarship & Excellence. In 2019, He won Mr. Heritage Ball. Kyle has a deep passion for social justice and helping his peers. As an advocate, he tries to help his student realize their full potential and to connect with the many resources and opportunities here at Southern. In addition to being an advocate, he coordinates bi-weekly workshops (UAP THUR-YAYs), and co-supervises UAP office assistants. Kyle also serves as one of the Graduate Advisors of the Caribbean Student Association and sits on the Multicultural Leadership Council.
Example of GROWth: During my undergrad, I struggled academically my first couple of semesters. I was barely attending class and partying with my friends three nights a week. It wasn't until my midterm when I became broke and failing two classes. After that my advocate pulled me and gave me a reality check. After that I've changed I began utilizing the tutoring center (before it became the Academic Success Center). I got more involved with joining West Indian Society (now it is called the Caribbean Student Association) and Black Student Union. I got involved with an on campus protest with the acquittal of Officer Dorian Johnson for the 2014 murder of Mike Brown. After that I became a prominent leader of color on campus. I wanted to become the best version of myself. I dedicated my time to fighting inequalities for students of color on campus.
The connections with faculty and staff of color on campus such as Dr. Siobhan Carter-David, Dawn Stanton, Dian Brown-Albert and Shermaine Edmonds became family to me and push me beyond my limits. I tell my students everyday that in order for you to succeed you must surround yourself with a village. Unfortunately my parents did not attend college and neither did the majority of the males in my family. I never really had a mentor or someone to look up to. Now all I can do is be present and to be the best advocate for my students. This job really forced me out of my comfort zone and pushed me to discover who " Kyle Augustine" is and how I can ensure my legacy here at SCSU.
Gabriela Vazquez is a UAP Graduate Intern. She is a first-generation student, and she was born and raised in Puerto Rico. Her outstanding performance in athletics and her academics allowed her the opportunity to obtain her undergrad degree at Southern Connecticut State University. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration in Finance. Throughout her four years at Southern, she has been involved in multiple organizations and leadership roles that have had a great impact on her college experience. She was a team player for the Southern NCAA Volleyball team, became a Peer Mentor, was a member of Programs Council, became a Resident Advisor and graduated as an Honors Student.
Her involvement within Residence Life allowed her the opportunity to develop a strong interest in Higher Education. In addition, she hopes to represent the Hispanic community in colleges and fulfill the need for bilingual staff to better assist students. Her goal as a UAP Advocate is to inspire students from underrepresented communities and help them understand that they can do anything they put their minds to. She wants to help students who are determined to achieve their goals and take full advantage of all the opportunities that Southern offers.
Example of GROWth: I believed that challenging myself and getting out of my comfort zone really helped me to grow. Through these challenges I was able to learn a lot about myself and my true potential. It is important to have a growth mindset and a positive attitude when facing challenges that makes us have to step out of our comfort zone. Instead of viewing these situations as something negative, we should view them as opportunities. A great example of stepping out of my comfort zone was when I applied to become a Resident Advisor, a leadership role within the university. It was a challenge to add that responsibility on top of being a full-time student and a full-time volleyball athlete. However, my position as a resident advisor provided me with multiple opportunities to grow and develop as an individual, as a leader and as a professional. I am very grateful to have had this experience, which helped me to learn so much more about myself. I look forward to continuing to grow withing my new journey as a Graduate Intern.
:: SEOP Peer Coordinators ::
My name is Asha Sneed and I’m a senior Psychology major with a minor in English: Professional Writing. I’m graduating in May 2021. I was born in Bridgeport, CT and raised in Atlanta, GA for the major of my childhood. I currently hold several campus leadership positions including: Academic Success Coaching Coordinator, RISE workshop mentor, and Peer Coordinator for SEOP. Prior to my current position as Peer Coordinator, I had the wonderful opportunity to be a Peer Mentor for SEOP in 2019. I am a Student Affairs and Deans List award recipient for the 2019-2020 academic year.
Example of GROWth: Opportunities don’t come to those who are complacent. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there whether it be making friends, advocating for yourself, or going after your dreams. If someone would have told me four years ago I’d be the first in my family to graduate from college or be a mentor at a university, I wouldn’t have believed them. I came to Southern with the sole purpose which was to graduate but I am leaving with so much more because I removed myself from my comfort zone. You will never know what you are capable of until you try and open yourself up to those experiences. Southern is where I matured, and realized the decisions I make have a direct impact on my future.
My name is Dan Kee & I’m a Senior sociology major from Milford Connecticut. I’ve previously served as an SEOP Peer Mentor and Orientation Ambassador as well as worked along side the Diversity Peer Educators. I Identify as both a black and white male which allows me to see things from different perspectives as I’ve had experiences both good and bad correlating to both of those parts of my identity.
Example of GROWth: An example of how I showed growth was when I went through SEOP as a student in 2017. Before my completion of the SEOP program my academic habits and attitude towards school was affecting my performance, but after my 5 weeks in the summer academy I grew and transformed into the student that I had the potential to be all along. The peer mentors, professors, and professionals from UAP helped me that summer really become who I am today in more ways than one. It was detailed what it would take to pass the program and what the outcome would be if I followed all of the steps. I gained all that was promised through the guidance of those who were there helping me!
:: SEOP Peer Mentors ::
My name is Tenaiza Tripp and I'm from Waterbury, CT. I'm a GEAR-UP student. My current class standing is a sophomore. I'm pursuing my bachelors degree in Sociology, concentration in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in Forensic Science. I'm an organized self-starter with outstanding communication and interpersonal skills. I'm determined and committed to assisting others to the best of my ability so they can succeed. I'm a self-motivated individual achieving goals and increasing productivity. I'm an attentive individual who pays attention to the smallest detail. I'm exceptional at demonstrating rapport with students, families and colleagues.
Example of GROWth: Ever since I made my transition to Southern I have experienced an increased amount of personal development on campus. There are no imperfections, just improvements that can be made to aid in growth. Each experience and learning process is a piece to finding my identity. It is important to be open and accept change. I had to make the adjustment in my college experience and it made me grow. College is not a place solely centered around academic growth however, it is centered around personal development too. Embrace the power of autonomy, freshman year can be the most challenging but I embraced my free will, engaged in extracurricular activities and expressed my freedom moving forward in adulthood. I learned to always ask and accept help because the communication isn't one-sided. I utilized every resource for my personal development and growth.
My name is Zah’Nyah Scott. I’m a second year Peer Mentor and psychology major with a concentration in mental health, with a criminal justice minor. I am the president of of my organization on campus which is Steppin’ Up Drill team come fall 2020. I am a Desk attendant in the first year residential building, and I am a student worker in the Diversity and Equity office located in the Library. A fun Fact about me is I am from Waterbury but I am now a resident of New Haven!
Example of GROWth: In high school I wasn’t the best student academically. I paid attention to my friends just lived in the moment not really thinking about the future. The summer of my sophomore year is when it hit me that I actually wanted to go to college to pursue something. I especially did not want to be home. My main thing was to get away from the same environment I was in because it was hindering me in some aspects. One of my teachers had to talk with me saying that they see my potential, and would recommended me to join college courses like APs and UConn courses. So my junior year I really buckled down and had a clear vision of what I wanted to do. I researched different colleges, I looked up requirements to get in the college, I even went to open houses. I was afraid that it will be too late since the first half of my high school career I made poor decisions. That didn’t stop me from still becoming the best student I could be along with getting involved.
Fast forward to my senior year , when it was time to receive acceptance letters, and I got conditionally accepted into Southern through the SEOP program. I knew that I had a chance to make it right by going to this program. When I entered the program I immediately really enjoyed the structure and all of the tools they gave me to succeed. Yes there were long days. Yes my summer was mainly spent at school, but I left with so much more knowledge about a lot of things than I imagined. I always notice that big step for me. I’m very driven so when I have a goal set in mind, I go for it. I knew what I wanted to do, and I knew the steps to get there. I’ve built relationships with faculty, professors, and staff members so that way I felt more supported. I was just really grateful for that one teacher in high school that believed in me. And I feel extremely blessed and grateful to have a whole group of people my peer mentors and advocates believe in me while I attended this program. I believe we’ll all just need that one person or group of support to start the chain.
My name is Crispin Carr. I was born and raised in Bridgeport, Ct. I attended the SEOP program last summer. I am now 19 years old and will be starting my Sophomore year this upcoming fall. I am majoring in psychology, but I may change my major in the future.
Example of GROWth: Leaving high school I wasn’t mentally prepared for college. SEOP gave me that mental strength I needed to excel in college. I gained resilience by focusing on the future and reminding myself of the purpose for me completing the program. Understanding that this is a small step you must complete to continue with bettering your future, and to proceed to college. My attitude became very optimistic once I was about two weeks into the program, my daily schedule had become routine. In just 10 days, I went from wondering how I would finish the program, to a new level of confidence and assurance because I knew that I was more than capable of exceeding and moving forward.
I gained an abundance of wisdom throughout SEOP but there are two important lessons I learned from SEOP that will never leave me. The first one is your future is up to you, and the second is using the resources that are around you. Even though, it may seem very simple to some individuals, I never really understood that phrase. Every step you take now will affect your future whether it’s negative or positive. So that’s why it’s important to make every step you take worth it and valuable. Entering college, you’re now at a time where you get to decide your future and everything you do now will have an affect on it. When I was in SEOP, we studied in the library for 4 hours a day. In this time you can work on Math, English, and Communications. You can meet with tutors or complete work. This was very valuable because it showed me the resources we had on campus, and how to use them properly. This needed to be emphasized because at the Southern the help will always be there, but it’s up to you to use it when needed!
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My name is Rakim Grant. I'm a sophomore at SCSU and I'm currently majoring in Communications. I plan to get my undergrad degree at Southern then go to law school. At Southern, I'm a Presidential Student Ambassador. Here I serve as an official representative of the institution at important social functions hosted by the President. I also teach at an after school program called Leadership and Athletics in Partnership Inc. in order to help disadvantaged students. Here I run my own class and create lesson plans for the program. Additionally, I am on my dorms hall council and active in the community.
Example of GROWth: I was in SEOP just last summer. SEOP prepared me for college and made me a better student by giving me the chance to completely change my habits. One of the biggest changes for me, coming to SEOP was the structured day. In high school most of the time I came late--if at all. By the time I was through SEOP though I was thoroughly disciplined in getting myself up. SEOP gave me the chance to focus on myself and get my stuff together and Since this program, I haven’t missed one class unless I absolutely had to, and I haven’t even come late. One of the most important things SEOP taught me was how to succeed on my own and get involved. Before coming to SEOP I had very little self-discipline. could never bring myself to do my work on time or ask for help and because of that, my assignments would pile up and always be late. When I came here though I realized I had to unless I was ready to go home. So I used all the resources they had, and there’s a lot.
No one was there to wake me up for class and teachers weren't on me to get my work done but I learned how to do it myself and that’s the most important thing when it comes to college academics. Just to give you an idea of what this program did for me: I got the first A of my life here. After SEOP, I went from being a D average student in high school to being a deans list student. So I learned if you take things seriously and put in the work you will be miles ahead. (not pictured)
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My name is Diamond English. I am a first generation student who’s came in through SEOP summer 2018. I was previously an INQ peer mentor. Recently I became a proud member of the Sigma Gamma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. I plan on pursuing a degree in psychology.
Example of GROWth: Growing up college was never stressed in my household nor my community. I knew I wanted to be the one to end the bad chain. Being a young minority in the projects I had all the odds against me. With a little determination and help of my counselors I was admitted through SEOP class of 2018. (not pictured)
My name is Ariana Lopez. I was born in Shelton, Connecticut and graduated from Shelton High School in 2019. I was the captain for the color guard team and plan to pursue marching with the CT Hurricanes. I've also tutored intro Spanish classes. Before deciding to go to a university I planned on pursuing a career in cosmetology.
I came to Southern through SEOP in 2019. I am currently a sophomore with a major in Social Work and a double minor in Spanish and Psychology. I am passionate about social justice and equality of human rights. I am a member of OLAS, the Organization of Latin American Students. I am also an LGBTGIA+ ally.
Example of GROWth: I never thought I would be as successful of a student as I am today. In high school I had incredibly poor academic habits and never had an interest for being involved on campus. When I graduated I knew I had to make a change in order for a prosperous future. I made the decision to attend SEOP and commit myself to becoming a better scholar.
I was fearful of the workload of a college student and the critique from professors. Yet I learned to utilize the multiple resources available to me on campus to improve the quality of my assignments. Because of office hours, I became more comfortable talking to my professors about material I wasn't grasping. I even decided to join an organization to meet more people on campus and make connections with other students. I learned asking for help is a strength and is key in order to reach my goals.
My name is Michaela Garconvil. I'm a junior with a major in Biology and a minor in French, and hopefully have a career as a physician assistant. I had a couple leadership roles over the years where I volunteered at two elementary schools. In one of them I was helping out teachers in their classes with the students, in addition to teaching fifth graders French with my French club. My cousin has a non-profit organization that has to do with STEM girls. This organization ranges from grades 3 to 5. I always try to assist her in my spare time with whatever tasks are available. All of my previous leadership roles gave me the opportunity to work with elementary students. As an SEOP Peer Mentor I will the opportunity to work with a different group of students which I’m looking forward to.
Example of GROWth: I went through the SEOP Summer Academy in 2018. It was a really great experience and I learned a lot from that summer. I was able to feel comfortable at school by the time I started for the fall semester because I knew my way around the campus. I am a very introverted person and one of my goals about starting college was to come out of my shell which led me to sign up for a couple clubs on campus but they weren't really what I was looking for. So I decided to try out for the modeling club on campus which I was really excited for because of my interest in fashion but I didn’t make it in the first try. I was really upset and disappointed, it kinda shook my confidence and made me scared to try out for other clubs on campus.
My sophomore year I decided to try out again but this time I was more prepared, I spent a couple weeks practicing and watching videos about what to do and what not to do. When I made the team it really built my confidence to volunteer in trying new things, my peers and my mentors have commented about my growth. I still have to grow some more but I’m really proud of myself for not giving up when I would normally do and also proud because of how I’m able to step out of my comfort zone into trying new things.
My name is J’hymel Ervin (info forthcoming; not pictured)
:: Academic Success Center (ASC) Academic Specialists & Success Coaches ::
My name is Karina Aviles. I am a senior studying Communication Disorders and Psychology. I’ve been working at the ASC since Spring 2019, and specialize in writing. I am an active member of campus clubs, involved in Greek Life Council, and a Hermana of Hermandad Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc. I am very excited to work alongside this year’s faculty and students. It’s a wonderful experience in which everyone learns something new.
Example of GROWth: An example of my growth would be my experience here at Southern. As a first-generation Latina student, my journey is dependent on my ability to adapt to the environment and utilize the tools around me to be successful. Every semester I learn something new or are introduced to different opportunities that have provided the stepping stones to where I am today. If it wasn’t for me being optimistic about my future and having a supportive group of people at Southern, I would not have grown as much as I have as a student and person.
My name is Emma Sweeney and I am going into my junior year. I am a member of the university’s Honors College and am pursuing a major in Environmental Systems and Sustainability. In addition to my major, I am also pursuing minors in Public Health, Honors, and Philosophy. I am a Writing Specialist at the ASC and was the Paint Crew Manager for Southern’s Theater Department. Despite the current COVID-19 pandemic, I maintained my role as Assistant Coach to my high school Women’s Lacrosse team. In all these positions, I have been able to help my peers, empower younger students and better my overall community.
Example of GROWth: Before coming to college, I had the assumption that a person only meets with his/her/or their teacher if something was wrong. This negative implication of meeting with teachers caused me to avoid going to them for help or better clarification in high school. One of my first college classes allowed me to overcome this preconceived idea. The class consisted of two professors and two assistants, which were students who had previously excelled in the class. A main requirement of the class was that each student meet with each professor during their office hours. Even though both professors made it clear in class that the meetings were not a sign of punishment, I still believed that my meeting would consist of harsh criticisms and denouncing lectures about my performance so far.
However, to my surprise, this was not the case. Both professors conducted their meetings with the intention to get to know me better. They asked about how I liked the class so far and how I was adjusting to the college lifestyle. I talked to both of them about the other classes they teach and we discussed why they had become professors in the first place. Seeing how understanding and friendly the professors were allowed me to feel comfortable enough to set up more meetings throughout the semester. Even though the assistants were fellow students, my negative assumption originally made me hesitant to reach out to them for help too. Yet, my positive experience with my professors led me to begin meeting with the assistants to learn about any helpful tips and insights they might have. Though intimidating at first, meeting with professors and fellow students for help has caused me to succeed in my college career.
My name is Amber Belval and I am grateful to be your SEOP Writing Tutor. I am going into my junior year at Southern Connecticut State University and am a nursing major in the Honors College. In my time at Southern so far, I have served as an Orientation Ambassador, Resident Advisor, and am in Omega Zeta Pi sorority. I am a level 2 CRLA Writing Tutor in the Academic Success Center and love helping others in any way I can! I am from Wolcott, Connecticut and have lived on campus thus far at Southern. I lived in West Campus my first year, Schwartz Hall for the first part of my sophomore year, and became a Resident Advisor in Chase Hall later in my sophomore year. During the semester, I find myself spending most of my time at Dunkin’ in the Adanti Student Center and in the library studying. I love being a student at SCSU and am grateful for all of the amazing opportunities I have from attending this university. I am very excited to welcome you all to Southern and aid you in your success at this incredible university!
Example of GROWth: In high school, I was not confident in my writing skills and often found myself with “writers block” when it came time to write an essay. I felt like I did not know how to write and would often get frustrated with myself when I tried. I have experienced tremendous growth as a writer by attending Southern and am now more confident and successful in writing.
I was able to develop such skills through dedication, resilience, and optimism. I first acknowledged that writing was not my strong suit and worked very hard to improve. I made sure to start writing assignments as soon as they were assigned, attended office hours with my professors, and was optimistic that I would be able to develop the necessary skills to improve as a writer. I kept the reminder to not be too hard on myself when I did not always get the perfect grade I desired, but did not let this hinder my growth. My hard work surely paid off, as I not only believed in myself more, but also was recommended by my professor to be a writing tutor in the Academic Success Center. I have now been tutoring others for a year, which has allowed me to even further develop in writing. I was able to grow because I had an open mind, worked hard, and really wanted to succeed- and you all have the same amazing potential to grow in countless ways too!
My name is Lauren Reilly, and this summer will be my second year as a Writing Specialist for SEOP! I was born and raised in Naugatuck, CT. I graduated from Southern this spring with my Bachelor of Science in English Secondary Education, and I am returning in the fall to pursue my Master of Arts in English. As my career goal is to become an English teacher, most of my campus involvement has encompassed providing academic support for students. I have enjoyed working as an embedded tutor for writing-intensive courses, a general writing tutor, and currently as the Writing Coordinator at the Academic Success Center. I was also the Secretary of SCSU College Democrats for two years.
In my free time, I enjoy pleasure reading and hanging out with my two cats, Max and Tux. I am looking forward to getting a kitten soon! Recently, I have been trying to develop my creativity by picking up some old hobbies, including playing the piano and photography. My favorite place to travel to is Cape Cod, MA, but my dream is to travel to Europe and experience locations and cultures outside of the United States! (I was supposed to go to Bermuda this summer before the COVID-19 pandemic.) Regardless of these unprecedented circumstances that we are facing, I am elated to have the opportunity to meet and work with you all this summer!
Example of GROWth: During my first years of college, I struggled immensely with speaking in front of groups of people. This challenge was not limited to giving presentations; I would also get anxious when I had to answer a question or read out loud in class. I often stumbled over my words and turned bright red, discouraging me from participating at all. As I progressed in my program, however, I realized that speaking in discussions was not only a valuable component of the learning experience but also an expectation of my professors and peers. I knew overcoming this anxiety would be challenging, but I decided to get support by going to my professors’ office hours and being open about how I wanted to work on speaking with confidence. Once I was open about my weaknesses, my professors provided me with different strategies to help make participating easier; some of them would even intentionally call on me in class so I could practice speaking more. This support transformed my discouragement into optimism as I began to develop comfort and confidence in myself to engage in discussions with my classmates.
The wisdom I gained in this journey, however, became clear to me when I was student teaching at Thomaston High School earlier this year. While my eighth-grade students were preparing to give presentations, one of my students became super anxious about speaking in front of her classmates. I briefly took her aside to speak to her, and I shared some of the strategies I have used myself to deal with presentation nerves. At that moment, I realized the wisdom I gained by helping my student overcome the same challenge I experienced myself. Although public speaking or presentations are still not the easiest for me, I learned how to develop confidence in myself as a student and how to support my own students in the same circumstances. I would not have gained this optimism and wisdom if I had not acknowledged my weaknesses, made goals for myself, and used the resources around me to help me get grow.
My name is Jacqueline Tapia. I’m from Bridgeport, CT. I’m a sophomore and a computer science major. I’m also a proud first-generation college student and a first generation Mexican-American. Some of my other involvement on campus includes being a peer academic leader for the ASC as well as being one of the secretaries for the computer science club. Some of my passions include technology and helping others, hence my major and the positions I hold at the ASC. I hope to travel to some underdeveloped countries to help build schools or just do service in general in the future and one day start an organization to promote STEM for underrepresented communities. I hope to serve as a friend and guide for everyone, especially any students hoping to pursue a career in STEM.
Example of GROWth: My last semester was challenging for me. I wasn't a major fan of a professor’s teaching style in one class, and another professor was a tough grader which is something I had never really experienced. These classes also had heavy workloads and homework that took me a lot of time to complete. I also didn’t understand some of the class topics very easily. At a point in the semester I got so discouraged that I stopped doing homework for both classes because it felt like too much. This led me to fail my first math test. I was devastated. I was even considering withdrawing from the class and not feeling like I could succeed. I then realized that this class was important for me and my major, so I decided to stick with it.
At times it was hard trying to think positively and remain optimistic. I had to attend a lot of office hours to get better explanations on the things I was confused about. I also watched many videos online whenever I need even more clarification and examples. I even used the math tutors available at the math zone. As, for Anthropology, I realized that the subject was interesting, enjoyable, and just because it was a challenging class and professor did not mean I could not do well in it. I spent hours reading all the required texts and doing all the assignments. My struggle and demanding work ended up paying off at the end of the semester when I received good final grades and was even able to make it onto the dean's list. I’m glad I kept my positive thinking and hard work because I gained a lot of resilience thanks to it. I think this newfound resilience and wisdom will allow me to be a better student in the future and just allow me to thrive whenever faced with new challenges.
:: Faculty in Communications (COM) ::
Margot Schilpp teaches courses in English Composition, Creative Writing and Communications at Southern Connecticut State University and English Composition at Quinnipiac University. She is the author of four volumes of poetry, all from Carnegie Mellon University Press, the most recent of which is Afterswarm (2019). Her poems have appeared widely in literary magazines, and she has been awarded residencies at Yaddo, the MacDowell Colony, and the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. Schilpp lives in New Haven with her husband, the poet Jeff Mock, and their two daughters, Paula and Leah.
Example of GROWth: Like many people do, I started college directly after high school, and (like many people also do) I thought that it would be an amazing time and that being a college student represented a freedom I was missing by living with my parents in a small town in southern Illinois. I enrolled at the local university and attended a year of courses. “Attended” may not be the precise word I am looking for, though, because during that first year, I missed most class meetings. I did very few assignments (often because I hadn’t been in class to know what the assignments were). By the end of two semesters, my GPA was under 1.0.
After some tearful conversations with my parents, I decided to take several years off and worked a series of jobs—as a secretary, as an assistant in an accountant’s office, and as an investigator for some attorneys. After working for a while, I realized I wanted to return to college and when I did, I was finally ready—I finished up my undergraduate years and made the decision to earn two graduate degrees.
Jason Forsyth holds a B.S. in Communication (Video Production), an M.B.A. (Marketing) from Southern Connecticut State University and an M.F.A. in Motion Pictures and Television (Film Editing and Post Production Techniques) from the Academy of Art University. He is an independent filmmaker with numerous screenings at film festivals across the U.S. His work focuses on experimental filmmaking, particularly the emotional impact of real-life events and their impact on one's emotional inner-state. Prior to his academic career Jason worked as a freelance sound engineer, recording music and producing music videos for artists local to New Haven County.
I found myself – I found my inner voice through studying film production and its artistic processes. Witnessing other students experience the same self-discovery is where my initial interest in education and teaching is rooted. Since 2014, I have been teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Communication and Film Production. My approach to teaching is indicative of my desire to help students be successful in the classroom and in there college career overall. More importantly, though, my pedagogical approach to education is established in a way that best prepares each student for opportunities outside of the classroom.
In support of this, I create assignments and productions that simulate ‘real world’ conditions. In my estimation, the best practice is the practice outside of the practice. As an instructor I view myself as a guide that leads students to conceptual understanding of techniques, theories, and approaches while developing unique points of view. That is along with the ability to critically analyze material. This approach – this method and structure continues to have a positive impact on student’s personal and professional goals.
Example of GROWth: Reflecting back upon my experiences as a student, higher education provided me the platform to become a more creatively driven and structured person. As I headed into my senior year of high school (2001-2002), the furthest thing from my mind was to attend college. Aside from my brother (whom started the year prior), no one in my family went on to further their education. My passion was film and the production process and I was not too sure how college was going to help further my knowledge in that practice. In other words I knew what I wanted to do, I just did not know how to do it.
Encouraged by my brother, I researched programs and eventually found myself at SCSU enrolled in Film, Television and Digital Production courses. The attitude and perception I previously carried quickly changed once like-minded people with similar passions and interests surrounded me. Further, I found myself driven and influenced by the ideas and creativity of my classmates and professors. All the lectures, the assignments, the tests, and the deadlines provided the much-needed structure I was missing. This structure became the foundation – the start of a professional career I would have never imagined.
With my newly found optimism, I continued my education through undergraduate and into graduate school where I obtained two masters degrees: Masters in Fine Arts in Motion Pictures and Television (Academy of Arts University), as well as a Masters in Business Administration (Southern Connecticut State University.) I have worked on several films in a variety of genres, winning awards for my work in the experimental film field. In 2014, things came full-circle, as I was hired to teach in the Communication, Media, and Screen Studies department at SCSU. This is a position where I can pass down my knowledge and experiences to students, as they strive for personal and professional excellence. Without question, this is a long journey. The experiences, the knowledge, the friendships and everything else that comes along with the journey in higher education will be worth it in the end.
:: Faculty in GROW mentoring seminar ::
Brandon LA Hutchinson is an Associate Professor of English at Southern Connecticut University where she has been teaching for almost eighteen years. She received her doctorate at UMASS Amherst, where she was one of few chosen to enter the Afro-American Studies Department’s inaugural class. Her favorite courses to teach are Black Women Writers, the Harlem Renaissance and Contemporary African American Novel where she focuses on historical fiction. In addition to teaching, Brandon is currently serving in the capacity of faculty liaison for the Multicultural Center and as a faculty fellow for Diversity and Inclusion through the Faculty Development office.
Example of GROWth: PERSONAL, on "wisdom": One of my favorite lines in Donny Hathaway's, "A Song For You," begins with "I've acted out my life in stages with ten thousand people watching... " I think about the many ways in which I have performed roles out of expectations that come from society, family, etc. It's exhausting to feel as if you are performing for others...in those quiet moments when I am with myself, when I permit myself to truly be with myself, I continue to learn more about who I am and how I want to be most purposeful.
My own wisdom--that stems from honest self-exploration--is what I am coming to value most.
EDUCATIONAL, on "resilience": I was pretty sure in my first year of graduate school that they would kick me out after the first semester. Like, truly. I thought they wouldn't ask me back. It was the toughest time in my educational career. I arrived for my PhD program when I was just 21; I had graduated cum laude from an elite private college but I didn't feel prepared for the type of reading and analysis they expected. I didn't know how to ask for help; I was too embarrassed. My first assignment did not cut the mustard. I remember getting feedback that said something like--this is disappointing. It was a fail, I took an L, all of that. My ego was crushed.
My resilience kicked in awhile after. I started making community with my classmates. I learned that working in isolation didn't help. I started making connections with my professors. It took time to learn how to write a paper on a graduate level EVEN though I had performed well in college. While the language of a "beginner's mind" wasn't in my vocabulary then, that's what I was being attuned to. I was beginning again and learning to garner supports along the way.
Marian Evans, MD, MPH, CRA was born and raised in Bridgeport, CT. She graduated from Lauralton Hall (Academy of Our Lady of Mercy) in 1981, received a Bachelor of Arts from Swarthmore College in 1985, and earned her Doctor of Medicine from Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine in 1991. She completed two residencies in Obstetrics/ Gynecology and Anesthesiology. In 2015, she earned a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from Southern CT State University, and is currently an Assistant Professor. At Southern, she teaches undergraduate and graduate public health courses, and serves as the graduate coordinator of the Master of Public Health program, faculty liaison to the Multicultural Center, and faculty advisor to Golden Key International Honour Society.
In 1999, she served as a Physician Scientist at the Yale Griffin Prevention Research Center. In 2004, she was appointed the Director of Health and Social Services for the City of Bridgeport, where she served in that capacity until 2010. She is a class of 2007, Connecticut Health Foundation Health Leadership Fellow, and a 2016 Community Leadership Program fellow of the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund.
In 2007, she was one of People to People’s 20 national delegates to travel to India as an ambassador for public health. In 2009, she traveled to Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Soweto, South Africa on an international field study in public health. In 2013, she traveled to Guatemala on an international field study in public health. In 2017, she traveled to Cuba on a People to People Educational Exchange with the Academy of Women’s Health exploring the maternal child public health infrastructure. In 2019, she completed her first faculty study abroad service, arts and culture trip to Bermuda with New Haven Promise, Summer Equal Opportunity Program, and University Access Program students.
She has received numerous awards: 2018-Elm City National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women (NANBPW), and Outstanding Faculty Member by the SCSU Multicultural Center, 2015-Outstanding Master in Public Health Student, 2014-Eta Sigma Gamma Honor Society, 2011-2020-J. Philip Outstanding Teaching Award nominations, 2010-“Behind the Scenes” by COTHS Board of Trustees, 2009-“Women You Should Know” Bridgeport Black Pride; 2008-Woman of Distinction Housatonic Girl Scouts, and Fairfield County Environmental Justice Award, 2007-Power to End Stroke Award and Fred Harris Turning Point Award American Heart Association, and 2005-Sojourner Truth Award Greater Bridgeport NANBPW.
Presently she sits on the Board of Director’s as the Vice-chair for Community Health Network of CT Foundation, the Greater New Haven Green Fund, and the New England Grassroots Environmental Fund. She is passionate about ministry to people in untraditional, and unconventional forms. (Tenacious, educated, professional, physician, researcher, scientist, scuba diver, professor, woman of faith, award winner, sister, daughter, caregiver, community activist, leader, mentor, and wife)
Example of GROWth: When I was your age I read a book by WEB Dubois, where he wrote about the "figures in the veil", it was about how there are two worlds for Black people and one that you are in when you are behind the veil where you are most true and geniuine to yourself and then the when you are in front of the veil, you have to put on another face or persona just to make it in the world. I had always felt that but never thought anyone understood until I saw it written. It helped me understand that I was not schizophrenic or crazy having to "be" this split in order to suceed .Understanding that their are different rules for you and that the rules can change at any moment written or unwritten, and learning how to navigate those rules were important.
Siobhan Carter-David is Associate Professor of History and Affiliate Faculty in the Women’s and Gender Studies Program at Southern Connecticut State University. She is a cultural historian of the experience of African-descended people in the United States. Her work deals with the imaginative and complex ways that Black people have, particularly in post-Civil Rights America, created worlds inside of worlds that respond to, but develop a discourse independent of, the white gaze—largely through the examination of fashion and dress norms in the evolving, expansive, and sometimes enigmatic annals of Black style.
Carter-David teaches in the areas of fashion/beauty studies, women and gender studies, and African American, African Diasporic, urban, and contemporary United States histories. Her book project “Issuing the Black Wardrobe: Fashion, Magazine, and Uplift Post-Soul” explores fashion as a racial uplift strategy of African American magazines in the two decades following the Civil Rights Movement. She is author of several chapters in edited volumes and exhibition catalogues, writing on Black style, feminism, and print culture.
Carter-David received her B.A. in English from Morgan State University (2001), her M.A. in United States History from City College/City University of New York (2004), and her dual PhD in History and American Studies from Indiana University (2011).
Carter-David is also a mother, wife, sister, daughter, cousin, aunt, niece, soror, friend, feminist, pan-Africanist, artist, and historian.
Example of GROWth: I have gained resilience, optimism, and wisdom through my educational journey. In my profession there is a lot of room for elitism. While working on my PhD and in the early years of my time at Southern, there were many former professors and fellow graduate students who wished for me to aspire to similar careers goals as them. They thought that I should apply for postdoctoral fellowships and do other things that would boost my prestige in the field. However, many of these options would have taken me away from the metro-NY area (where my family is based) and would have put an undue burden on my husband's career and the socialization of my children. I decided to "bloom where I was planted" and stay at my first job out of graduate school; I made teaching my priority over research/publishing (and the adulation that comes with it) because it filled me up - even though I love both! I learned through this experience that happiness is most important; that if you can find a sense of sustained joy in your life, you have pretty much won the battle.
:: Administrators ::
Dawn Stanton is the Director of UAP. She came to Southern as a student in the Southern Educational Opportunity Program (SEOP) summer academy in 1986, which became a life-changing experience that shaped her values and belief in her ability to thrive academically in college. During her time as a Southern student, Dawn was a member of the women’s track team competing in short sprints, long jump, and triple jump and becoming a 5-time All American. She was also a Resident Advisor for two years in Wilkinson Hall, which was the spark for her passion for helping college students succeed.
Dawn has worked in residence life, student center management, student involvement and leadership, and access programs. After 30 years of experience promoting student achievement, she has come full-circle in her role as director of UAP. She appreciates the importance of access programs that serve and create opportunities for promising students in post-secondary education. Dawn cares deeply about students and is committed to helping them persist and graduate. She values academic accomplishment and believes in the power of education to improve social mobility. Dawn is a proud alumnus of SCSU, having earned a Bachelor’s in Communication (1990) and a Master’s in Business Economics (1998). She was inducted into the SCSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2018 for her accomplishments in track and field. She lives in Hamden, Connecticut and has two children in college who followed in her footsteps as student-athletes.
Ankur Kumar is the Associate Director of UAP. I'm born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, and identify as Asian-American. I am the oldest of three sons, born to parents who moved here from India to pursue better opportunities. Their efforts and cultural values help keep this country great. I earned my B.A. in Political Science at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and my M.Ed. in Higher Education Counseling at University of Southern California (USC). There’s a lot I’ve gained through being the first in my family to pursue and complete college in the states, where the values, expectations, resources and norms can be unfamiliar. They aren’t usually taught, unless your network is familiar with these. I experienced transition challenges and ensuing academic adversity early in my undergraduate career at a large research institution. These compelled me to make uncomfortable but necessary changes to my environment, and develop my unique identity and purpose. I emerged a high achieving graduate from top-25 ranked universities in the nation. My experiences taught me that every student has strengths and capabilities to achieve their aspirations and potential.
I’ve advised, taught, conceptualized and facilitated outreach programs for many first-generation, culturally and economically diverse students in Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP), Student Support Services (SSS), Student Diversity Success Initiatives (SDSI), STEM, and an Early College program. I bring experiences working at universities and colleges in CA, NY, MA, and now CT. I’ve also done system-wide trainings for academic advisors, and CRLA-supported trainings for tutors, and coaches, as well as recruitment and public speaking in the years I’ve served students’ success. In UAP, I shape programs that are engaging, informative, research-backed, and most of all, driven to help students in advance themselves for academic excellence, social belonging, personal and professional growth. I consider my career to be personally meaningful, and always strive for growth.
Example of GROWth: At age 18, I thought being in college, picking the right classes, and trying would assure me some reasonable future. I had interests in writing, music, and media, and in retrospect, wish I’d pursued them together academically. But at the time, I didn’t see a path to supporting myself with my interests. I also didn’t have the luxury to explore, because college could get pricey if I stuck around longer than needed. There was some pressure on me to do this quickly with minimal debt, which is the case for many students.
Most people I met at UCLA decided their major and future career. I didn’t know mine. I picked political science because it would utilize writing, and because an English honors teacher in high school beamed at one of my writing assignments and encouraged me to pursue law. I struggled with the first and second year courses, became disengaged and unable to relate until later in the upper division courses. I was too scared to make a change because I thought it would delay my four year plan. I wish I had known it was okay to ask for advising to explore, but I was embarrassed and thought I had a rare problem of indecisiveness for a young adult. I later learned it was common to not know all that was out there to make a living, what to study, which co-curricular opportunities to pursue, and get there.
Early on, I got caught up in a social culture which today might qualify as “lit.” It was a turn from the life I led to gain admission to a prestigious university. I made many poor choices early in college, while enjoying a version of college life that caused me to underachieve, not love myself, and believe I was no longer capable of much. My GPA going into sophomore year made me ineligible for many opportunities: work-study, internships, and study-abroad to name a few.
My change came from being intentional about how I spent my time, and with whom. I stopped going with the flow. It was not easy saying no to people, and no to myself. Out of necessity I moved to a cheaper off-campus room about 45 minutes away by bus. I stopped being part of the scene, and socialized mostly with the sounds from my headphones. Despite the discomfort of making changes to my lifestyle, I felt so much pride and self-respect from studying and earning grades that got me to good standing.
I took a part-time campus job with 6am shifts which helped me structure my days and sleep earlier. I became open to student groups reaching out to me randomly in the campus quad. I tried out a few organizations and really liked one that happened to be a faith group. That changed my life. I’m not sure everyone needs faith to develop a purpose, but I did. The relationships I made through this student group showed me there are healthy and fulfilling ways to make friends, talk about issues of personal growth even if we come from different walks, and really enjoy myself. It was a stark contrast to how college life was when I went with the flow.
In hindsight, the missteps and lack of knowledge I had early in college led me to being very methodical and hungry for wisdom. I thrived in education as a graduate student, and it’s shaped how I see myself today. I hope you don’t have to make a series of missteps like I did. There is no shame in talking with staff, faculty, and student leaders for things on your mind, struggles you’re having, or simply for affirmation. Even if they look like they wouldn’t relate or have it all together, try not judge and give them a chance. You will find your mentors.
Jermaine Wright, Ph.D. has approximately 15 years of experience in organizational effectiveness, leadership development, performance measurement and improvement, diversity and inclusion, management and operations, and fundraising/development. His leadership reflects an abiding commitment to the core values of educational access and excellence. Dr. Wright is currently the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) where he is responsible for the management and stewardship of the following departments within the Division of Student Affairs: University Access Programs, Student Involvement and Leadership Development, the Multicultural Center, the Michael J. Adanti Student Center, the Sexuality and Gender Equality (SAGE) Center and the John Lyman Performing Arts Center. Dr. Wright provides oversight for broad-based engagement and retention programs and services for students to create an environment in which students are engaged, persist, and thrive. He also provides leadership for divisional initiatives to enhance the cultural awareness and competency of staff and students and create a more welcoming, just, and inclusive community. Prior to his arrival at Southern, Dr. Wright worked at the City University of New York (CUNY) for about a decade in a variety of roles, ranging from Associate Director of the CUNY Black Male Initiative (BMI) to Interim Associate Dean for the Office of Special Programs.
Example of GROWth: As a Jamaican, race as a social construct had no bearing, as we were all Jamaicans back home. However, when my family migrated to the United States, I began to understand just how significant an impediment race can be to improving one’s life circumstances due to race-based structural inequities. When my parents and I arrived in the U.S. in the mid-80s, we lived in the South Bronx at the height of the crack/cocaine era. I grew up in a three-bedroom apartment that housed 12 individuals, 8 adults and 4 children. Needless to say, I didn’t grow up in the best living conditions. However, I didn't allow my environmental circumstances to dictate my path. During my first year away at college I did not do well academically. In a lecture hall class of about 450 students, there was only a hand full of Black faces or faces of color in a sea of white faces. It wasn’t the type of environment that I was used to, nor did it feel inviting. I felt like an outsider, someone who did not belong. Therefore to fill this void and to create a sense of belonging, I along with other male students of color formed a group called Brother 2 Brother or Hermano 2 Hermano. We realized that there wasn't many of us, so we have to stick together. While we had different majors/concentrations, if we’re going get out of here in four years, or five years – if you were on the five year plan – we needed to be accountable for one another's success by creating study halls and looking out for each other. Brother 2 Brother, an informal group started by students, is now a formal entity on Binghamton’s campus funded and recognized by the Student Government Association, which is wild. Who would’ve thought it would turn into this.
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My name is Stephanie Hackett. I am a Connecticut Native, and after getting a Bachelor’s degree in History and French, I went to Northeastern University for a Master’s Degree in College Student Development and Counseling. I have been working in Student Affairs for almost a decade, in various capacities.
Example of GROWth: As a first year student I went to a school pretty far from home, and I immediately felt like a fish out of water. It was very easy for me to suddenly feel like I wasn’t good enough, or didn’t have the skills necessary to succeed in the college environment, and retreat into those feelings.
However, thanks to the support and guidance of several offices on my campus, I was able to develop the tools I needed to get myself out of that feeling and realize my potential. While it wasn’t how I anticipated beginning my college career, I am grateful for the experience because it showed me that I am able to overcome things that I felt were impossible and realize just how resilient I can be. (not pictured)
My name is Tracy Tyree and I have served as the Vice President for Student Affairs here at Southern for 7 years. Basically, that means I provide leadership for most of the student experience that takes place outside of the classroom. From athletics to health and counseling to academic advising to res life and even University Access Programs, I work with people across campus to provide the very best experience for students. How you spend your time when you are not in class is super important! You will have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, learn to think critically, become a better problem solver, and strengthen your ability to work with others. And, this is just the tip of the iceberg. My job is make sure we offer you the most amazing opportunities to learn and grow so you are ready for success after college; your job is to maximize those opportunities.
That is me, the professional. On a personal note, I identify as a white, cisgender woman using the pronouns she, her, hers. I grew up in the Panhandle of Florida and have lived in Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and now Connecticut. I earned degrees from the University of Florida, Indiana University and the University of Maryland. I have an amazing seven-year old son named Logan, and we adopted two sibling kittens during the pandemic which Logan named Matilda and Leo.
Example of GROWth: I am an optimistic person by nature. I generally find the best in circumstances and have even been faulted for being overly positive. As such, I feel even more challenged when I fail. I can remember a period of depression when I was a kid during which I became overwhelmed by the possibility of failure. I felt under great pressure and couldn't seem to get out of my own way. Trying to help me find some perspective, my dad wrote on a slip of paper the message, "Take it one day at a time." I carried it around with me in my wallet and took it out when I needed a reminder. To this day, I keep that message in the back of my mind. I sometimes get overwhelmed with all of the problems that need solving, the decisions that need to be made or just a very long TO DO list. I take a deep breath and think to myself, "Tracy, just take it one day at a time." I block the rest from my mind for that moment and get to work.
My name is Randolph Brooks, and I was born and raised in Virginia. I completed my BA in Psychology from Morehouse College in Atlanta Georgia. I earned my MS and PHD from Virginia State University. I completed my Predoctoral Internship at Keene State College and my Postdoctoral Fellowship at Connecticut College, where I published my first scientific journal article. I have been at Southern Connecticut State University since 2018. In 2019 I worked with SEOP students doing weekly sessions. Outside of working with SEOP students, I work with students on campus as a mental health counselor. My official title on campus is Multicultural Programming and Outreach Coordinator and in that role I engage in outreach programming for counseling services on campus as well as work with other offices on campus to conduct outreach programming as well as develop programs that prioritize various groups dependent upon to needs and goals of that particular office. I also help to mentor organizations on campus.
Example of GROWth: Gaining Resilience, Optimism, and Wisdom is more than a motto or acronym, When I started my undergraduate career, I had no idea what I wanted to do as after graduation. When I started college I was planning on majoring in Engineering however, once numbers turned into letters in my math class, I switched gears to pre-law. In my first pre-law class I realized I was not interested in it and moved over to psychology. I was doing well in psychology; however, it was not a smooth road for me. As I got deeper into the major I moved into those classes in which anything lower than a C was a failure and I would have to retake the class. During the first semester of my junior year I was taking a class called Experimental Psychology Lab. This was a writing intensive course, and as you can guess I failed this first class by 2 percentage points, I ended the semester with a "C-". When I learned of my grade I told my classmates "she gave me a C-". During winter break I was very upset, but I had to come to the realization that "I earned a C-". I of course registered for the same class for the Spring semester, because it was a required class. I had to change my mindset to say that the grade I received was the grade that I earned and I and the person in control of my academic outcome. I had to recognize that my professor did not want me to fail, she wanted me to be better. I had to bounce back from that failure, but also take some steps forward to include going to office hours, turning assignments early for critique, and ultimately learn from my mistakes. It was this fundamental shift in my thinking that has helped me get to where I am today. It has helped me to take responsibility for my actions in academic settings and it has helped me rebound when I do not perform as well as I would like.