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: Welcome to Augusta University! I'm Mark, a higher education professional with roots in Pennsylvania and a passion for student success. Since 2019, I've dedicated my career to higher education in the Southeast, bringing diverse experiences from both metropolitan and small-town environments.
My academic journey includes dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and Communication Arts from Allegheny College, complemented by a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Columbia College. I'm currently pursuing my Doctorate of Education in Educational Innovation right here at Augusta University, deepening my commitment to transformative educational practices.
My professional path has taken me through different communities including Toronto, Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, Tampa, Beaufort (SC), and Meadville (PA). Most recently, I have put down roots right outside of Augusta, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the Augusta University community. What makes AU truly special is its distinctive culture—it's like no other institution I've experienced. I'm thrilled to collaborate with our exceptional faculty, dedicated staff, and inspiring student leaders to create meaningful transitions for our incoming students and their families.
LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY
My approach to leadership is founded on a simple yet powerful principle: lead with
kindness, always. I believe that authentic connections, compassionate guidance, and
creating inclusive spaces are essential to helping new students thrive during their
transition to university life.
BEYOND THE OFFICE
When I'm not welcoming new Jaguars to campus, you might find me enjoying room-temperature
coffee (yes, really!) while exploring our beautiful Augusta river region or planning
my next adventure.
MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: March 2022
ABOUT ME: Welcome to Augusta University! I'm Jenna, a passionate advocate for student transition and success with roots in New Jersey and extensive experience in Virginia's higher education landscape.
My academic background bridges STEM and student affairs, with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Tech (2022) and an M.A.Ed in Higher Education and Student Affairs (2024). This interdisciplinary foundation gives me a unique perspective on supporting students across diverse academic journeys.
My professional experience includes serving as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for Virginia Tech's Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity (CEED), where I developed skills in creating inclusive learning environments. In summer 2023, I further refined my expertise as a NODA Intern for Parent and Family Programs at San Jose State University, solidifying my commitment to orientation, transition, and retention work.
I'm thrilled to bring my passion for student development to Augusta University, where I look forward to welcoming new students and families while mentoring our exceptional student leaders as they create transformative experiences for incoming Jaguars.
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
ABOUT ME: Coming soon!
MEMBER OF NSFT SINCE: Coming soon!
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 Coordinator, Orientation & Student Development
About the Transition Programs & Initiatives Team: As champions of student success, this team oversees essential transition programs that help new Jaguars adapt to university life. They work with office leadership to 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. You will find this team working behind the scenes at many of our programs to ensure we have proper logistical support.
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.
