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: Hi! My name is Rex Reed! I'm originally from Lincolnton, Georgia. I am a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force. I graduate of the Community College of the Air Force where I earned my AAS in Electronic Systems Technology. I have lived on both U.S. coasts and aboard but nothing compares to being home and in the community that I grew up in and love so much. I live with my wife, daughter and two fur babies Bear and Roxy! I'm excited to see what the future holds and look forward to working with the amazing staff and students at Augusta University!
MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: February 2025
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.
Student Intern, Orientation & Orientation Logistics
About the Transition Programs & Initatives Team: As champions of student success, this team oversees essential transition programs that help new Jaguars adapt to university life. They manage the Online Welcome experience, coordinate the Jags4Jags Peer Mentorship Program, coordinate LEAP Week Extended Orientation programming, and maintain active engagement through social media and the Welcome Brigade. Their work focuses on creating meaningful connections between incoming students, parents, and families while supporting various transition initiatives.
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.
