Meet the Staff

  • Ard

    Dr. Franklin Ard

    Executive Director 

    Franklin Ard has served in student academic support roles in higher education for over eleven years and as a writing instructor for over fifteen years. He started his career in academic support as the manager of the University of South Alabama’s writing center and then as the director of the University’s large multi-functional tutoring center that provided both writing and subject-area tutoring. He received his doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of South Alabama in 2018. He also holds Master of Arts degree in English and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing. 

    He started a new role as Director of Academic Student Support Services at Kennesaw State University in August 2023 and was then named Executive Director for Student Support Programs in May 2024. In this capacity, he provides leadership for academic success initiatives aimed at enhancing student success at the University. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three-year-old son, writing fiction and poetry, walking in nature, and reading books of all genres.

    fard1@kennesaw.edu

    470-578-2295

    • Krystal

      Krystal Gongora

      Associate Director

      Krystal Gongora joined the Student Success Coaching team in November 2021. She has served previous roles in higher education training student leaders, coordinating experiential learning programs, and providing college mental health counseling. She worked as an administrative professional in University Housing at the University of Georgia supervising student workers within the residence halls. She served as a program coordinator for an Alternative Spring Break travel program within the Civic Engagement office at Georgia State University. She completed her graduate internship experience with Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) at Kennesaw State University providing mental health counseling to students on the Marietta campus. 

      Ms. Gongora is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia and her Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. Her professional experience also includes working in the non-profit public sector providing community mental health therapy to underserved at-risk adult populations with severe and persistent mental diagnoses. 

      Ms. Gongora is a dedicated Georgia Bulldogs football fan and an Atlanta foodie. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping, going to music concerts, traveling, and listening to audiobooks or podcasts. 

      kgongor1@kennesaw.edu

      470-578-3082

      • Mallori

        Mallori Kelley

        Associate Director

        Mallori Kelley joined the Student Success team in January 2023. She has served as the Assistant Director of Co-Curriculum Programs since August. Mallori has a strong passion for student success and advocacy. With a background in medical student education at Northwestern University spanning 15 years, Mallori brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her role. Her transition from the medical field to undergraduate education was driven by her desire to make a broader impact on the overall development of students. She is dedicated to creating engaging and enriching experiences that enhance the academic and personal growth of each student. Through innovative programming and a student-centered approach, she strives to empower students to reach their full potential and achieve their goals. 

        Ms. Kelley received her Bachelor of Science degree in Health Education & Promotion from the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign and her Master’s in Health Communication from Northwestern University. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, finding new restaurants in the city, and traveling. 

        mkelle74@kennesaw.edu

        470-578-6728

        • Ellie

          Ellie Thomson

          Associate Director

          Ellie Thomson serves as an Associate Director and oversees peer-to-peer support within Student Success Programs. In this role, she manages the Wing Leaders First-Year Peer Mentoring Program and the Peer Coaching initiative, both of which are designed to help students transition successfully to college life, build academic skills, and develop a strong sense of community. Ellie is passionate about creating impactful support systems that empower students to achieve their personal and academic goals.

          Before stepping into her current position, Ellie served as a Program Coordinator within Student Success Programs and as an academic advisor within the Coles College of Business. She has a deep commitment to helping students navigate their college experience and grow into confident, capable individuals.

          Ellie holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and a Master of Business Administration from Viterbo University. In her free time, Ellie enjoys crafting, going on walks, trying new restaurants, spending time with family and friends, and watching reality TV (her guilty pleasure!). 

          ethomso2@kennesaw.edu

          470-578-2478

          • Gonzalez

            Adriana Gonzalez

            Program Coordinator

            Adriana joined Student Success team in November 2023. As Program Coordinator, she oversees the THRIVE program for HOPE Scholars which supports students transition to college, maintain the HOPE scholarship, and stay on track to graduate. As an educator and leader at high schools within the Cobb County School District for over two decades, Adriana was the Department Chair of World Languages, the Advanced Placement (AP) testing coordinator, and managed Student Leadership programs. Prior to her career in education, Adriana worked within the telecommunications industry with a focus in project management, process improvement, and human resource development.

            Adriana received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Florida International University and a Master of Business Administration from Georgia State University. Additionally, Adriana graduated as an Education Specialist in Leadership from Berry College and completed an Alternative Teacher Preparation Certification from Kennesaw State University. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, reading, traveling, and trying new cuisine.

            amg9298@kennesaw.edu

            470-578-7586

            • Richards

              Nigel Richards

              Program Coordinator 

              Nigel Richards is an enthusiastic and dedicated Student Success Coach, where he is committed to supporting and guiding students towards achieving their personal and academic goals. Born and raised in St. Croix, a beautiful U.S. territory in the Caribbean, Nigel brings a unique perspective and a warm, welcoming attitude to his role.

              Nigel embarked on his educational journey at Valdosta State University, where he pursued his passion for understanding human behavior and helping others by earning an undergraduate degree in Psychology followed by a master’s degree in Counseling Education. His academic journey was complemented by hands-on experience working at several high schools, equipping him with the valuable insights and skills necessary to connect with and support students from diverse backgrounds. As a Student Success Coach, Nigel is deeply invested in the well-being and success of every student he encounters. He prides himself on being approachable and available, always ready to assist with any queries or concerns students may have.

              Beyond his professional endeavors, Nigel is a fervent Star Wars fan, showcasing his love for the iconic franchise and its rich storytelling. He believes in the power of positive thinking and resilience, often sharing his favorite quote by Brian Tracy with students: "You cannot control what happens to you, but you can control your attitude toward what happens to you, and in that, you will be mastering change rather than allowing it to master you." This philosophy reflects Nigel's approach to life and work, emphasizing the importance of attitude and adaptability in the face of challenges.

              Nigel Richards is not just a coach but a mentor, dedicated to their success and personal growth. His background in psychology and counseling, combined with his genuine passion for helping others, makes him an invaluable asset to the team.

              nricha26@kennesaw.edu

              470-578-2695

              • Misty

                Misty Henderson

                Student Success Coach 

                Misty Henderson joined the Student Success Coaching team in March 2023, for the Hispanic and Latino Outreach and Leadership in Academics Program. She is a Kennesaw State University alumnus with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology Degree.

                Mrs. Henderson has been working with Kennesaw State University since 2019 and loves supporting students! Her previous role in higher education was in financial aid. She is passionate about supporting and assisting students in their goals. In her free time, she likes to read and spend time with family and friends.

                mhende45@kennesaw.edu

                470-578-3082

                • Andreea

                  Andreea Johnson

                  Student Success Coach

                  Andreea Johnson joined Student Success team in January 2021 as a Student Success Coach. Throughout her career in higher education, Ms. Johnson has served in a myriad of capacities in both public and private universities.  She has worked with students through academic advising, new student orientation, recruitment/promotional events and educational workshop coordination and facilitation.  

                  Ms. Johnson has also trained new staff and supplemental instruction leaders. In addition, Ms. Johnson has served on various committees to obtain accreditation renewal and distinction of academic excellence in various programs.

                  Ms. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Integrative Public Relations and a Master of Arts in Interpersonal and Public Communication from Central Michigan University.  She is passionate about working with students to help them develop academically and professionally.  In her free time, she enjoys connecting with friends at Starbucks over an iced latte, crocheting, and attending concerts.

                  ajohn733@kennesaw.edu 

                  470-578-6308

                  • Payne

                    Ally Payne

                    Student Success Coach

                    apayne90@kennesaw.edu

                    470-578-2157

                    Ally Payne joined the Student Success Coaching team in September 2024. She has served in a previous role at Kennesaw State University as an Academic Advisor in Owl Advising. Before working in higher education, Ally spent nine years as an elementary and middle school teacher in Gwinnett County, Cobb County, and a bilingual school in Sandy Springs.

                     
                    Ally earned her Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education from Shorter University in 2012. She is currently working on her Masters in Counselor Education at Valdosta State University. In her free time, Ally enjoys reading, crocheting, watching reality shows, exercising, spending time with loved ones, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Falcons.

                    • Mahoney

                      Timothy Mahoney

                      Student Success Coach 

                      Tim joined the Student Success team in August 2024, supporting first-generation college students in the Coca-Cola Scholars Program and the student body. He works with students across diverse majors, helping them navigate their academic journey by developing effective goal setting and study habits and preparing for internships and career opportunities by diving into professional development.

                      Tim earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and his Master of Science degree in Sports Psychology from Northern Illinois University. As a former collegiate lacrosse and community college basketball player, Tim combines his athletic background with thousands of hours of coaching experience to inspire and empower students to achieve their goals. His experience mentoring incarcerated youth at a maximum-security prison through Project FLEX as a graduate assistant reflects his dedication to empowering others to overcome challenges and succeed.

                      In addition to his role at KSU, Tim brings a wealth of experience as a sports psychologist. He has worked with athletes at all levels, from youth and collegiate players to international C-Suite leaders and professional athletes, helping them achieve peak performance. Over his career, he has collaborated with athletes in nine countries, including collegiate All-Americans, national champions, and clients who have achieved significant milestones such as World Series victories, NBA Championships, and Olympic medal wins.

                      Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Tim developed a deep appreciation for community and collaboration, which inspired his coaching approach at KSU. Outside of KSU, Tim enjoys spending time with friends and family, being outdoors, and traveling.

                      tmahon12@kennesaw.edu

                      470-578-6213

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