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About Us

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:

  • Learning that prepares students for a lifetime of success and leadership; 
  • The pursuit of excellence without compromise; 
  • Achievement supported by a climate that celebrates each person's success; 
  • The shared mutuality between all students, their supporters, and our shared Augusta Community; 
  • A culture of respect for all members of our shared community – and a shared commitment to uplifting all members of our community. 
We demonstrate these values in the creation and implementation of all of our programs, events, and experiences as we strive to assure that each individual is able to learn and work in an atmosphere of dignity, equity and inclusion. We ask that all members of our shared Augusta University community be mindful of our responsibility and commitment to create an environment that is welcoming to all, where each person feels accepted, valued and safe.
 
Our Mission: We cultivate a comprehensive experience that ensures a transformative transition into our shared community.
 
Our Vision: We envision an experience that empowers change-makers, uplifts our visionaries, and promotes a community of life-long scholars.

Contact Us

The Office of New Student & Family Transitions

 Summerville Campus

Jaguar Student Activities Center

706-737-1610

nsft@augusta.edu

SAC 102

@aug_newjags

The Professional Staff Team



DIRECTOR OF NSFT: MARK MYERS (HE/HIM)

man smiling

 

ABOUT ME

Welcome to Augusta University!

I'm Mark, a higher education professional who's been working in this field since 2019. My journey started in Pennsylvania and has taken me through various communities—Toronto, Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, Tampa, Beaufort, and Meadville—before I settled here outside Augusta.

My academic background includes dual Bachelor's degrees in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and Communication Arts from Allegheny College, followed by a Master's in Higher Education Administration from Columbia College. Currently, I'm pursuing my Doctorate in Educational Innovation at Augusta University, which keeps me connected to the learning experience from both sides.

Having worked at several institutions across different regions, I can honestly say Augusta University stands apart. There's something distinctive about the culture here—the collaboration between faculty, staff, and student leaders creates an environment that's genuinely supportive. I'm passionate about leveraging that culture to help new students and families navigate their transition to university life successfully.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY

My philosophy centers on leading with kindness while maintaining high standards. I believe meaningful change happens through authentic relationships and inclusive practices. Whether I'm working with anxious first-year students or collaborating with colleagues on new initiatives, I prioritize creating spaces where people feel valued and supported.

BEYOND THE OFFICE

You'll probably find me exploring Augusta's river region with a cup of room-temperature coffee in hand (a quirk that never fails to puzzle my colleagues). I enjoy planning adventures and discovering what makes each community unique—something that's served me well in my nomadic career path.

MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: March 2022



ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: JENNA SIMS (SHE/HER)

jenna sims

ABOUT ME

I'm Jenna, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate their college transitions successfully. Originally from New Jersey, I spent several years in Virginia's higher education scene before making my way to Augusta University.

My background is a bit of a unique mix—I started in STEM with a Biomedical Engineering degree from Virginia Tech in 2022, then shifted into student affairs with my Master's in Higher Education and Student Affairs in 2024. That combination gives me an interesting perspective when working with students, especially those trying to figure out their academic path or feeling uncertain about their major.

During my time at Virginia Tech, I worked as a Graduate Teaching Assistant with the Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity (CEED), which really opened my eyes to the importance of creating inclusive spaces where all students can thrive. I also spent a summer as a NODA Intern working with Parent and Family Programs at San Jose State University, which solidified my love for orientation and transition work.

What draws me to this field is seeing that moment when a nervous first-year student starts to feel at home on campus, or when a family realizes their student is going to be okay. There's something special about being part of those early college experiences that can set the tone for someone's entire university journey.

Now at Augusta University, I'm excited to welcome new students and families while also mentoring our student leaders. Watching our student staff create meaningful experiences for incoming Jaguars—and seeing their own growth in the process—is one of the best parts of this work.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY

I believe that each student brings unique strengths and perspectives to the Augusta community. My approach centers on empowering students to embrace their authentic selves while providing the support and resources they need to achieve their academic and personal goals.

BEYOND THE OFFICE
When I'm not collaborating with students and families, you might be surprised to learn that I have a twin sister! This personal experience has shaped my understanding of individual identity within shared experiences—something I bring to my work with all students at AU.

MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: June 2024



ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: REX REED (HE/HIM)

rex reed

ABOUT ME

Welcome to Augusta University!

I’m Rex, a retiree of the U.S. Air Force who grew up a stone’s throw from Augusta. I’m new to higher education and ready to help make a positive impact on the students here at AU!

My academic background includes an associate’s degree in Airfield System Technologies from the Community College of the Air Force as well as multiple leadership training certificates.
I have a wealth of professional experience that ranges from office management to event coordination/planning. My experience provides unique perspectives and tools to meet the needs of our office and the students we serve.
I’m very happy to be a part of this wonderful team and to help shape the college experience and success of our students!
 
LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY
I believe the only way to lead is to lead from the front. This means being active in your role as leader, being hands on with projects and being available to augment your team’s skills. A leader cannot be effective if they are removed from the daily activities of their team.
 
BEYOND THE OFFICE
Outside of the office you can find me spending time with my family. Usually, I have an apron on and am standing behind a grill or in the garden. Cooking and gardening not only bring me a sense of peace but also reminds me of the importance of patience and attention to detail.
 

MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: June 2025

The Orientation & Student Development Student Leadership Team

About the Orientation & Student Development Team: This team plays a vital role in shaping the orientation experience at Augusta University. Working directly with orientation leaders, they serve as teaching assistants in Leadership 2000 and ensure smooth operations of orientation programs. Their responsibilities extend to supporting parent and family orientation sessions, managing program logistics, and facilitating effective communications throughout the orientation process.

Taryn Lykes

Graduate Assistant, Orientation & Student Leader Development

Madden Jones

Senior Intern, New Student & Family Transitions

John Blalock

Student Coordinator, Operations & Logistics

Emily Mae Edmunds

Student Coordinator, Orientation & Student Development

Sean Ouattara

Student Coordinator, Parent & Family Orientation & Programs

 

The Administrative Student Support Team

About the Administrative Support Team: This team serves as the operational backbone of the Office of New Student and Family Transitions. They handle essential administrative duties including managing phone inquiries, coordinating email communications, and providing comprehensive office support to ensure smooth daily operations and excellent service to students and families.

Sam Hopkins

Graduate Assistant, Operations

Aiden Wynn

Student Office Assistant

Let's make something great together

 

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