Meet the Staff

 

    • brittney bartholomew

      Brittney Bartholomew

      Program Coordinator and Achieve Atlanta Liaison

      Brittney Bartholomew joined Strategic Outreach and Initiatives in November 2021 as a Program Coordinator and Achieve Atlanta liaison. Throughout her career in higher education, Ms. Bartholomew has worked for a variety of Universities within the University System of Georgia. She has supported retention and progression programs which include academic coaching, early alert, and peer mentoring. She has also designed and executed recruitment plans that have had a positive effect on enrollment. Ms. Bartholomew is looking forward to using her higher education background to assist Achieve Atlanta students with their transition to Kennesaw State University and ensure resources and programming are available for the population.

      Ms. Bartholomew holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University and a Master of Science in Higher Education from Georgia Southern University. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, dancing, and spending time with her family.

      bbartho3@kennesaw.edu 

      470-578-3912

      Building: 430, Office: UH 216C

      • krystal gongora

        Krystal Gongora

        Student Success Manager and REACH Georgia Program Coordinator

        Krystal Gongora joined the SOI 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) and a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) in the state of Georgia. 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.

        As a first-generation student herself, Ms. Gongora has a passion for helping other first-generation, multicultural, or underrepresented students successfully navigate their college experience while fostering their growth and the exploration of their identities and career life goals. 

        Ms. Gongora is a dedicated Georgia Bulldogs football fan and a budding 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

        Building: 430, Office: UH 222B

        • misty henderson

          Misty Henderson

          HOLA Student Success Coach 

          Misty Henderson joined the SOI 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

          Building: 420, Office: WH Suite  121C

          • andreea johnson

            Andreea Johnson

            Student Success Coach

            Andreea Johnson joined Strategic Outreach and Initiatives 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

            Building: 430, Office: UH 222C

             

            • mallori kelley

              Mallori Kelley

              Assistant Director, Co-Cirrucular Program Strategies

              Mallori Kelley joined the Strategic Outreach and Initiatives team in January 2023. She has served SOI 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’s 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

              Building: 430; Office UH Suite 213E

               

              • linda lyons

                Linda Lyons

                Director

                Dr. Lyons oversees the Strategic Outreach and Initiatives (SOI). The unit’s four signature outreach programs serve first-generation and underrepresented students who are entering Kennesaw State University (KSU) with an academic scholarship and/or are PELL eligible. Linda has worked in higher education performing various administrative roles for over 20 years. She received her doctorate from the University of Georgia in Adult Education with a focus on Organization Behaviors, and has a M.S. in Human Resource Development, and a B.A. in Business Management. Linda also has a faculty role as an Associate Professor in the Interdisciplinary Studies Department within the Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences at KSU.  She has built an academic trajectory with a focus on the scholarship of teaching and learning that is germane to multicultural education. Specifically, her research concentration is building intercultural competence in higher education through a collaborative approach with faculty, campus leaders and other campus stakeholders when developing and executing cultural awareness curriculum and co-curricular initiatives. She teaches courses that are connected to leadership development, strategic planning, implicit bias, cultural interactions and sensitivity, global learning, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has managed and directed education abroad programs to Africa, South America, and Italy as well as traveled with colleagues conducting professional development programs to the Republics of Ghana and Nigeria, Africa, Barcelona, Spain and Otzenhausen, Germany.  

                llyons5@kennesaw.edu 

                470-578-7783

                Building: 430; Office: UH Suite 213

                • nannette reese

                  Nannette Reese

                  Administrative Assistant

                  Nannette joined the SOI team in November 2022. She has had previous roles teaching across all age levels and is certified as a middle school and high school science teacher. She worked in the field of science participating in botanical and coral reef community conservational research. She is a laboratory and safety specialist. She worked for several years at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens curating the carnivorous and native rare collections as well as the outdoor visitor gardens. Her current areas of interest include student success and STEM application in the classroom, along with contributing to the enhancement of

                  diverse and inclusive excellence across our KSU family and community.

                  nreese2@kennesaw.edu

                  470-578-3550

                  Building: 430; Office: UH Suite 213

                  • Nigel Richards

                    Nigel Richards

                    THRIVE Student Success Coach

                    Hello there! My name is Nigel. I'm thrilled to be the new THRIVE Student Success Coach at SOI. It's great to meet all of you, and I'm excited to learn more about every one of you. I aim to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have.

                    I grew up in St. Croix, a US territory in the Caribbean. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology and my master’s degree in counseling education from Valdosta State University. During my studies, I worked at several high schools, which I believe will be helpful as you all work toward your goals. And, in case you were wondering, I'm a huge Star Wars fan!

                    If you ever want to stop by and say hello, my office is in University Hall, room 222A. And always remember, "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." - Brian Tracy.

                    nricha26@kennesaw.edu

                    470-578-2695

                    Building: 430, Office: UH 222A

                    • James Stinchcomb

                      James Stinchcomb

                      Assistant Director, SOI Student Success ProgramsMr. Stinchcomb, the Assistant Director of SOI Student Success Programs at Kennesaw State University (KSU), is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the human services field. His career has spanned various capacities within the field, providing him with a profound understanding of the unique challenges students face.

                      In his current role at KSU, Mr. Stinchcomb is dedicated to creating an inclusive campus environment that fosters student success, progression, and retention. He spearheads initiatives aimed at enhancing the academic, personal, and professional growth of all students. With a foundation in evidence-based techniques and holistic approaches, he tailors his support to meet each student's individual needs and aspirations, fostering a culture of respect and acceptance.

                      Mr. Stinchcomb leverages his extensive clinical experience to equip students with the tools they need to navigate challenges effectively, ensuring that mental health and well-being are integral components of student success initiatives. His commitment to personalized guidance, mentorship, and breaking down barriers has led to positive outcomes for students, empowering them to succeed and persist in their educational journeys.

                      As the Assistant Director of SOI Student Success Programs at KSU, Mr. Stinchcomb remains a catalyst for positive change, dedicated to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally. His unwavering commitment to student success, progression, and retention makes him a true leader and advocate in higher education.

                      jstinch2@kennesaw.edu 

                      470-578-5158

                      Building: 420; Office: UH Suite 213C

                      • miacko thompson

                        Miacko Thompson

                        Business Operations Manager

                        Miacko Thompson joined the Strategic Outreach & Initiatives department at Kennesaw State University in January 2022.  In her role as Business Operations Manager, Miacko assists with the development and management of the division operating budgets, foundation accounts, and grants.  She effectively develops, analyzes, and communicates essential financial information, policies, and processes within the division that ensure compliance with university, state, and federal regulations.  

                        Miacko began her professional career in higher education in 2006 where she managed the business operations for the College of Business and Public Affairs at Alabama A&M University.  She then joined the Study Abroad team at Georgia State University as a Business Affairs Coordinator managing the program accounts for the College of Arts and Sciences.

                        Miacko is a native of Chicago, Illinois but has traveled and lived in various places within the United States and was fortunate to travel throughout Japan and South Korea while living in Sasebo, Japan.  She earned a Master of Arts in Management and Leadership as well as a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning from Liberty University.

                        mthom532@kennesaw.edu 

                        470-578-3234

                        Building: 420, Office: WH 230

                        • ana torres

                          Ana Torres

                          HOLA Program Coordinator

                          Ana Torres joined the Strategic Outreach and Initiatives team in February 2023 as the program coordinator for the Hispanic and Latino Outreach and Leadership in Academics Program. She is a Kennesaw State University alumni with a Bachelor's in Modern Language and Culture and a Master's in Business Administration.  

                          Ms. Torres has been working with Kennesaw State University since 2016 and loves being part of Owl Nation! Her previous roles in higher education include admissions, registration, financial aid, retention and enrollment customer service management. She is passionate about working with students and helping them reach their academic and career goals. Ana was born and raised in Lima, Peru and loves her Hispanic heritage. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, arts and theatre and spending time with her pets and family. 

                          atorres7@kennesaw.edu

                          470-578-3140

                          Building: 420, Office: WH Suite 121B

                          • adriana gonzalez

                            Adriana Gonzalez

                            THRIVE Program Coordinator

                            Adriana joined Strategic Outreach and Initiatives in November 2023. As Program Coordinator, she oversees the THRIVE program which supports HOPE students transition to college, maintain the HOPE scholarship, and 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

                            Building: 420; Office: UH Suite 213C

                          • Student Peer Leaders

                            2023 - 2024

                            • Student Name
                              Program
                              Position
                            • Ayanna Butler
                              AATL
                              Ambassador
                            • Rich Aytch
                              AATL
                              Peer Leader
                            • DeSuela  Beverly
                              AATL
                              Peer Leader
                            • Zoe Brown
                              AATL
                              Peer Leader
                            • Ayanna Butler
                              AATL
                              Peer Leader
                            • Aamiyah  Grant
                              AATL
                              Peer Leader
                            • Ky'Esha  Lee
                              AATL
                              Peer Leader
                            • Amber Taylor
                              AATL
                              Peer Leader
                            • Yulisa Flores
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Sharod Harris
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Inaya Johnson
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Ethan Kessie
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Jayla Lawson
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Joel Metukmebong
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Jaterien Walker
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Camille Warren
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Patrick Underwood
                              Thrive
                              Peer Leader
                            • Carlos Moreland
                              REACH GA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Kanaya Williams
                              REACH GA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Elizabeth Adebambo
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Nikolas  Alvarez
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • James  Balbuena
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Tania  Ramirez Canedo
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Mayte Garcia
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Nathaly Guevara
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Nahomy Limon
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Christian Lopez-Iturbide
                              HOLA
                              Peer Leader
                            • Kayla Melgar
                              HOLA
                              Ambassador
                            • Nancy Samayoa-Martinez
                              HOLA
                              Ambassador
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