‘Once-in-a-lifetime experience’: Literacy Center students attend the Masters
“One of our goals at the center is to get people in touch with the cultural assets, and this is really a prime example."
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
Learn more about us below!
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: I was born and raised here locally in Augusta, GA. I am an Augusta University alumna with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. I am now pursuing a Master's degree in Counselor Education with a Concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My goal is to become a licensed professional counselor and have my own private practice one day. When I'm not at work, I enjoy singing at my local church and spending time with my friends and family.
PERSONAL STATEMENT: I approach my work with students with an empathetic mindset. I am passionate about student development and watching student leaders succeed and become the best that they can be!
FUN FACT: I am not new to this office. In fact, I was an orientation leader for two years before becoming a graduate assistant!
Member of NSFT Since: Over Two Years!
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)
“One of our goals at the center is to get people in touch with the cultural assets, and this is really a prime example."
"I wanted to really tell the story of how the illustration came to be,” said McKenzie Young.
The annual presentations were also an opportunity for leaders to demonstrate how they are building a greater culture of financial sustainability while planning for the future.
"Screening can prevent 60% of colorectal cancers, and 90% can be cured if detected early,” said Koosh Desai, MD.