Marine to art major: ‘Art never really stopped for me, even while at war’
“Making art in general has been very therapeutic for me," said Edna Martinez, a former Marine now art grad. "It's not just a passion anymore. It's become a necessity.”
The Office of New Student and Family Transitions is committed to the successful transition of all students, and their systems of support. We value the following:
The Office of New Student & Family Transitions
Summerville Campus
Jaguar Student Activities Center
706-737-1610
SAC 102
ABOUT ME: Hey there! My name is Mark, and my pronouns are he/him/his. I am a native of Pennsylvania, and I have been in the southeast since 2019 working in higher education.
I am a graduate of Allegheny College, with a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and have my Masters of Education in Higher Education Administration from Columbia College. I have lived in many different cities-big and small, including Toronto, Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, Tampa, Beaufort, SC, Meadville, PA, and a few others along the way! Most recently, my husband and I bought a home in Graniteville, SC. Augusta University is like no other that I have worked at, and am excited to work alongside a remarkable team of faculty, staff, and student leaders to welcome our new students!
PERSONAL STATEMENT: My approach to my work is pretty simple: to lead with kindness, always.
FUN FACT: I like my coffee at room temp!
MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: March 2022
ABOUT ME: Hello! My name is Jenna Sims, and I use she/her pronouns. I am originally from New Jersey, and I have lived in Virginia for the past several years. I received my B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Tech in 2022, and will graduate in May of 2024 with my M.A.Ed in Higher Education and Student Affairs. At Virginia Tech, I served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for the Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity (CEED). In the summer of 2023, I also served as a NODA Intern for Parent and Family Programs at San Jose State University, which strengthened my passion for working in orientation, transition, and retention. I am beyond excited to work with new students and family members at Augusta University while supporting the growth and development of student leaders!
PERSONAL STATEMENT: I believe that each student brings unique strengths and perspectives to the Augusta community. I strive to support all students in embracing their authentic selves and achieving their goals.
FUN FACT: I have a twin sister!
MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: July 2024
ABOUT ME: Hello, and welcome to Augusta University! I’ve spent most of my life in different regions of South Carolina from the Clemson area near the mountains to the Charleston area near the sea. I now enjoy living with my family here in Augusta, where we can easily enjoy both the mountains and the coast. The beautiful setting of the Summerville Campus inspires me each day.
At the College of Charleston, I completed a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English and minoring in education. I earned my Master of Library and Information Science degree from the University of South Carolina. My career background includes serving as an English teacher for grades 9 through 12, as a librarian for grades Pre-K through 12, as an administrative assistant, and as a stay-at-home mom. Working in the Office of New Student and Family Transitions allows me to combine all of my career experiences.
PERSONAL STATEMENT: I love working with students as they prepare for their futures and with colleagues who are enthusiastic about helping students achieve their goals.
FUN FACT: I can tap dance!
MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: October 2023
ABOUT ME: Hey there, my name is Sam and I started at Augusta University in the fall of 2018. I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business, and was involved in Greek Life, the founder of Jag Elite (a student dance team), and served as an Orientation Leader for several semesters. Since my first moment with the Office of New Student & Family Transitions, I have been dedicated to the support of students through their transition into the university. Currently, I oversee the Office's social media, external communications, and oversight of our 2023 Orientation Leader Team.
Personal Statement: I believe in the power of each student and their ability to navigate new challenges and obstacles. I view myself as an agent of change who is capable of guiding and leading students through their transitions, and inspiring tomorrow's leaders.
“Togetherness for me, means teamwork” -Walt Disney
Fun Fact: I am the face behind our social media pages!
Member of NSFT Since: Over Two Years!
Our New Student & Family Transitions Guides are imperative to the success of our programs, and provide logistical and administrative support to the Office.
Kelyisha Hayden (She/Her)
VACANT
Xavier Branch (He/Him)
“Making art in general has been very therapeutic for me," said Edna Martinez, a former Marine now art grad. "It's not just a passion anymore. It's become a necessity.”
“Paulette had such a passion for learning, and she strived to make certain that everyone she encountered had the skills they needed to succeed.”
“I hope it inspires some of them who received scholarships like I did, that they will do the same when they have the means to give back.”
“Since the day I set foot on campus, I have been so proud of the academic achievements, community engagement and career success of our students and alumni."