Daphna Atias has worked as an educational developer at GW's Center for Teaching Excellence since 2020, which means that she supports college instructors with the teaching part of their roles. Her unit hosts workshops and events, consults with instructors about course design and teaching topics, and develops resources that promote student learning. Daphna grew up in Michigan, where she earned a BA in English and Political Science and an MA in English from the University of Michigan. She has taught 10th grade English and several college literature and writing courses. A resident of DC for over 10 years, Daphna lives in NW DC with her husband, kindergartner, and toddler. She can usually be found exploring museums, going on day trips, and chasing her kids around playgrounds, often with an iced coffee in hand.
Corey Ballance, Jr. (he/him/his) is a Community Coordinator with Campus Living and Residential Education (CLRE) at The George Washington University. He is excited to be teaching CCAS 101 for the first time and is passionate about helping first-year students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Originally from North Carolina, Corey earned his Bachelor of Science in Information and Computer Technology from East Carolina University and is currently completing his Master of Education in Higher Education Administration at North Carolina Central University. He has previous experience teaching and mentoring students in academic, organizational, residential, and spiritual life settings. In his free time, Corey enjoys reading, singing, exploring DC, and binge-watching his favorite shows.
Paul Binkley, EdD, has over 20 years of career services, student affairs, international development, and higher education management experience. Currently, he is the Career Development Manager for the Columbian College, teaches CCAS 1001, and co-produces the Minute Mentor podcast. Prior to this position, he worked at the University of Mary Washington, Johns Hopkins University, and 13 years at GW. He also worked in Monrovia, Liberia, for four years first with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and then with the National Democratic Institute (NDI). He has also worked in Afghanistan, Bosnia, Iraq, Kosovo, Tajikistan, and several other countries in Europe, Central Asia, and Africa as an independent contractor and as an Elections Observer. Paul earned a doctorate from GW and a master’s degree in International Affairs from the University of Kentucky. Paul is originally from central Minnesota.
Dr. Debra Bright has served as Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs at GW since June 2023. Prior to this role, she served as the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs at Howard University, the Associate Dean for Student Affairs at Montgomery College, and Director of Admissions and Student Services at the GW Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD). Dr. Bright is a proud New Yorker, born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University, a Master of Education degree from Harvard University, and a doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration from GW. Dr. Bright's hobbies include traveling, going to the theater, line dancing, listening to audiobooks, and fine dining with friends.
Denver Brunsman is an associate professor and chair of the History Department at GW. He writes on the politics and social history of the American Revolution, early American republic, and British Atlantic world. His courses include “George Washington and His World,” taught annually at Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, and "The Price of Freedom: Normandy, 1944," which travels to Britain and France over spring break. Denver grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Seattle, Washington, before attending St. Olaf College in Minnesota for undergrad and Princeton University in New Jersey for graduate school.
Johanna Burgos has been with GWU for the past two years as a Community Coordinator with the Campus Living and Residence Education team! This is Johanna's second semester facilitating the CCAS First Year Experience class. Prior to this, Johanna grew up in NYC, obtained a BA in English literature, and most recently obtained her MA in English at GWI. Johanna loves reading, arts and crafts, exploring DC, and fun workout.
Anna Camp has served as the Senior Student Services Specialist within the School of Media and Public Affairs for over three years. She is especially excited to return as a CCAS 1001 instructor for Fall 2025. Anna holds an MFA in Film and Television Studies from Boston University and has also begun her second master’s degree in Higher Education Administration. Outside of work, Anna volunteers for her sorority as an alumnae advisor and enjoys all things reality television.
Amber Carter (she/her) has been with the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since 2014 working in academic affairs. She is a double GW alumna, with a BFA in Fine Art Photography from the Corcoran School of Art and Design and an MPA in Public Administration from the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration. Amber is also currently a doctoral candidate in the EdD in Higher Education Administration at GSEHD with a focus on the early career mentorship experiences of faculty with dis/Abilities. Outside of GW, Amber spends her time coaching functional fitness classes, hand competing with a local weightlifting club.
Catie Casapao (she/her) has been a POD 2 Advisor in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since May 2023. This will be her third semester teaching CCAS 1001. Before GW, she served with AmeriCorps supporting students in the 21st Century Scholars program at Purdue University. She earned her BS in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Purdue University and MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from The Ohio State University. In her free time, she loves playing with her cats, reading, playing video games, crafting, wandering around farmers markets, and going to concerts.
Payton Casarico has been with The George Washington University for over a year, currently serving as an Administrative Events Assistant for the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences. Originally from Morris County, New Jersey, she earned her Bachelor's degree from Elon University and is now pursuing her Master of Science in Event Management at GW. In her role, Payton is actively involved in planning and supporting major university events such as Commencement and the Law School Fair. Students can also frequently find her at Academic Advising, where she enjoys supporting the GW community. Outside of the university, Payton loves attending concerts and is a regular at [solidcore]!
Erik Cederholm currently serves as a Community Coordinator within CLRE. He oversees Shenkman Hall here on the Foggy Bottom Campus! Erik has a BA in Communication Studies from the University of Montevallo, a M.Ed in Higher Education Administration from Louisiana State University, and an MA in Communication Management from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Erik enjoys all things Arts related, the outdoors, and spending time with his Frenchie Eleanor!
Kelly Charwat started as the Program Associate at the Center for Career Services in April 2022. Her work focuses on marketing and communications initiatives for the Center for Career Services. She came to GW after spending over 6 years working for the Washington Nationals. There she managed the Nationals Authentics Program overseeing the acquisition, organization, and distribution of the Nationals memorabilia inventory.
Kelly earned her BS in Kinesiology and Family Science from the University of Maryland - College Park and recently completed her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Western States.
Kelly is native to the DMV and lives in Arlington, VA with her husband, their dog, and their newborn son. Outside of work, she loves travel and all things DC sports.
My name is André Culbreath, I am originally from Orangeburg, South Carolina. I serve as the Chief Diversity Academic Officer and Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) for The Columbian College of Arts & Sciences at The George Washington University. I primarily consult the Dean on matters of diversity, equity, and inclusion for the college. The consultation topics may range from faculty engagement, innovative pedagogical practices, assessment, student recruitment/engagement, staff engagement, professional development, alumni engagement, and the list continues. I also serve as a liaison to the various identity advocacy offices on campus connecting their services and programming initiatives to all CCAS community. In my spare time, I enjoys reading, traveling with his partner and serving the community. I am a veteran with the United States Air Force Reserves. I have dedicated my career and life to serving the greater community. I am a lifelong learner who is committed to the advancement of all students and professionals.
Allene David recently graduated with an MS in Interdisciplinary Business Studies from the George Washington University School of Business (GWSB) and is the administrative & program manager at the F. David Fowler Career Center (FDFCC) at GWSB. Allene is an experienced administrative manager with proven success in managing complex logistical and administrative operations while providing high-level support, expertise in event coordination, communications management, and fostering collaboration across departments.
Holly Dugan is an Associate Professor of English and the Interim Program Head of Theatre and Dance. She is a scholar of Renaissance literature and regularly teaches courses on early modern English literature, literature and financial imagination, and Shakespeare and performance.
Ify Ekott has been a POD 2 Advisor in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since April 2025. Prior to GWU, Ify held numerous positions as a graduate student while pursuing her Master of Arts in International and Multicultural Education at the University of San Francisco; including, Graduate Student Assistant for the Office of Sponsored Programs, Resident Minister with University Ministry, and Project Success Coach with the Learning, Writing, and Speaking Center. Ify was born in Nigeria, but has since grown up around the world, most notably, Beijing, China. She earned a Bachelor of Science from SUNY Binghamton in Biochemistry and went on to teach Biology to senior secondary school students in Abuja, Nigeria. When she isn't working at CCAS, Ify is exploring the DC and MD area, trying new food, catching up on sleep while pretending to watch a show, or reading a good book.
Fernae Ellard has been on staff as a community coordinator at GW since July of 2022. Prior to GW, Fernae spent time in various roles around the world including an outdoor educator in Colorado, art educator in Mississippi and a long-term volunteer educator and medical aid in Peru and Denmark. Fernae was born and raised near Atlanta, Georgia and graduated as a student-athlete from Berea College in Kentucky with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Studio Art. Fernae is an avid artist and spends her time at the pottery wheel, reading, hiking, paddle boarding, and volunteering in and exploring the city.
Hi, my name is Keileen Estrada! I was born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland, and am a proud DMV native with roots in Guatemala. I’m fluent in both English and Spanish and deeply value community, connection, and creativity. I graduated from Frostburg State University with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise & Sport Science and a minor in Psychology, and I’m currently pursuing my master’s degree in Organizational Leadership & Learning here at GW. I’m also a certified yoga instructor who believes in holistic and trauma-informed practices, with an emphasis on mindfulness. I love creating spaces where people can connect, feel seen, and grow together. I’m excited to get to know you all!
Hope Fagundes (she/her) has been the Program Manager for Academic Success and Retention in the Office for Student Success for two years. Prior to coming to GWU, Hope worked at an educational non-profit for three years. Hope has her Masters of Education from the University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Science in Urban Development from the University of California, Davis. Hope lives in DC with her partner and 2 cats.
Bashar Fakhry (he/him) is a Student Employment Associate with the Center for Career Services and a previous part-time faculty member. In 2020, he graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in Sociology. After working within the Residential Life department during his college career, as well as having lived in many diverse countries growing up. Bashar has had the opportunity to work with students from many diverse backgrounds and help them balance their career growth, responsibilities and academic achievements overall.
From working with embassies in translation to working with Disney in their business sector. Bashar’s diverse work experience has resulted in adaptive approaches in his career to promote the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion within every academic and social space.
Rashard Fant serves as the Assistant Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Development and Inclusive Excellence. Prior to joining the Revolutionaries, Fant served as the Director of Student-Athlete Success at Southern Methodist University (SMU) as the Director of Student-Athlete Development. Rashard was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Management with minors in Human Resources and Business, and completed his Master's Degree in Public Affairs with a concentration in Policy Analysis from Indiana University. Currently, he is a Doctoral Candidate at SMU.
Ayomide Fashola is a Program Coordinator in the Orientation, Class-Year, and Families Programs Office. She is a dedicated Student Affairs professional with experience across a range of campus departments, including Residence Life, Campus Recreation, Student Conduct, Student Success and more.
Born in Nigeria and raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Ayomide earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Towson University and her Master’s in College Student Affairs Administration from the University of Georgia.
Outside of work, Ayomide enjoys reading, exploring new restaurants, and creating custom balloon garlands through her small business."
Emma Fensterheim (she/her) has been a POD 3 Advisor in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since June 2021. Prior to coming to GWU, Emma was an 11th and 12th grade International Baccalaureate (IB) English teacher in Baltimore, Maryland. Emma was born and raised in the DMV and graduated high school with an IB diploma. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from the University of Maryland, College Park and her Master of Science in Education from Johns Hopkins University. Emma loves reading, hiking, exploring DC, seeing shows at the many DC area theaters, and traveling.
Leah Fishman serves as the Learning Specialist in the Athletics Department at GWU since August 2023. Prior to coming to GWU, Leah has been a high school special education teacher in Indiana, an academic advisor at Bowling Green State University, and a Retention Coordinator at the University of Akron. Leah was born and raised on Long Island, NY, where she graduated from Farmingdale High School. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Special Education with a Science Concentration from Indiana University, Bloomington and her Master of Arts in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University. Away from GWU, Leah enjoys playing and watching sports, reading, trying new baking recipes, running, and going to Disney World!
Courtney Frost has been the Associate Director of Employer Relations at the GW Center for Career Services since October 2022. Prior to coming to GW, Courtney worked at the career centers at Louisiana State University and The College of William & Mary. Courtney was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and History from University of the Pacific and a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from The College of William & Mary. Courtney is currently pursuing her PhD from GW's Graduate School of Education and Human Development. In her free time, Courtney enjoys reading, playing with her goldendoodle, Ollie, and taking walks around her neighborhood.
Jaryn Gessesse has been at GW on the POD 3 Academic Advising team in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since August of 2022. Before joining GW, Jaryn was a mental health clinician servicing high school and college students throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. She received her Master of Social Work from the Catholic University here in DC, and her BA in Social Work & Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Jaryn enjoys watching films, eating/drinking anything mango flavored, and collecting trinkets!
Sarah-Kay Hurst is returning to teach CCAS 1001 (First Year Experience) for a fourth time. Her primary role at GW is as a French professor, and she enjoys teaching CCAS 1001 (in English!) to support students as they navigate university life and build a strong foundation for their college journey. She especially enjoys creating learning experiences that help students discover all GW has to offer. Originally from Colorado, she has lived in Washington, D.C. since 2018 and remains obsessed with the city’s many museums, from Planet Word to Smithsonian gems like the Renwick Gallery and the National Museum of African Art. She holds a Ph.D. in French Linguistics, focusing on teaching methods and enhancing the student experience. Before joining GW, she taught for two years in the English department at the University of Strasbourg in France. She is passionate about teaching and excited to work with first-year students again this fall!
Candice Johnson serves as the Associate Dean, Academic Affairs in the School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She holds a faculty appointment in the department of Clinical Research & Leadership. Candice has been at GW for 18 years, and has held positions in the SPH, GWSB, and GSEHD. She holds an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Biology & Chemistry. She holds an MBA from GW with a focus in project management. In addition, Candice attended the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, a residential public high school for juniors and seniors. She lives in Virginia with her partner and 8-year-old son. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, swimming, baking, reading, games, and the occasional reality show. With her vast GW experience, Candice enjoys helping connect students to resources and helping to set them up for future success at GW and beyond!
Email Karen Johnson:
pod1
gwu [dot] edu (General Advising)
prelawgwu [dot] edu (Pre-Law Advising)
Karen Johnson has been the Senior Academic Advisor for Pre-Law since October 2020 and an Advisor within POD 1 in the Colombian College of Arts & Sciences since January 2019. I was born in New Orleans but moved to D.C. with my family when I was 7 years old. I like to read sci-fi and fantasy, hang out on the beach, eat good food, and drink good coffee. If you want to know more, go here.
Book a Pre-Law Advising Appointment
Julianna Kang has been working at the front desk of the CCAS undergraduate advising office since October 2024. Prior to coming to GWU, Julianna graduated from the University of Maryland with a BA in Psychology and is currently pursuing a MS in Project Management. Julianna has been raised in Maryland for most of her life and loves spending time around Baltimore/DC/VA, trying new restaurants and cafes, getting her nails done, and exploring new cities!
Daksha Khatri is a Community Coordinator at GW with over seven years of experience in higher education. She’s passionate about helping students feel supported, confident, and connected as they begin their college journey. As a proud first-generation college graduate herself, Daksha understands the excitement and challenges that come with transitioning to college - and she’s here to help students navigate it all.
Daksha earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with a minor in Environmental Sustainability from the University of Mary Washington, her Master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU, and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Administration at GW.
She has mentored first-year students, led campus training initiatives, and created programs focused on leadership, inclusion, and well-being. Outside of work, Daksha enjoys spending time with her three-year-old orange tabby cat, Kaira, watching British crime dramas and K-Dramas, and being outdoors in the sun. Fun fact: Daksha is a polyglot and speaks five languages!
Leah Kuppermann has been a POD 1 Advisor in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since August 2022. Prior to coming to GWU, Leah worked in college admissions. Leah grew up in New York and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Studies & Women's Studies from the University of New Hampshire. She is currently earning her Master of Arts in Organizational Sciences from GW! Leah loves cooking and hosting, seeing live shows - musicals, concerts, comedy, etc - exploring DC, and traveling!
Sunghyun 'Sean' Lee serves as the Career Development Manager for the School of Engineering and Applied Science. He brings over 10 years of experience spanning higher education, private sector recruiting, and the nonprofit sector.
Before joining GW, Sean led the Career Development Center at the State University of New York, Korea. He played a key role in establishing the center and overseeing its operations, including organizing various career programs, providing personalized career coaching, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and teaching courses on career and life design. During his tenure, Sean guided numerous students in discovering their purpose and achieving their career aspirations.
Sean holds a Master of Arts in Diplomacy and International Relations from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Sterling College. As a fun fact, he has traveled to over 15 countries across five continents and visited more than 40 states in the U.S.
Mya’ Lesley-Drakeford has been the Diversity Program Manager for the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since March 2022. Before coming to GWU, Mya’ worked at Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, as the Coordinator for Diversity and Multicultural Retention.
Mya’ loves to say that she is Midwest (Chicago) born and Southern(Atlanta) raised. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from Western Carolina University and a Master of Arts degree in Educational Administration, specialization in Student Affairs from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Mya’ loves traveling to new countries, states, and cities, hanging with friends and family, watching sports(especially basketball), and binge-watching comfort shows.
Rawan Maarouf has been a POD 1 Advisor in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since January 2024. Rawan is from New Jersey and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communications at Stockton University. Prior to coming to GW, Rawan was an Academic Counselor for 9th-12th graders and taught English literature to 5-8th grade for 3 years. Rawan enjoys talking about music, fashion, cooking and travel.
Mallory McPherson-Wehan, MPH (she/her) is currently the Assistant Director of Health Promotion and Education at the George Washington University. She manages a team of three full-time staff, five graduate students, and five undergraduate students dedicated to evidence-based wellbeing and prevention initiatives for GW's 26,000 students. Prior to her role in health promotion, she directed Campus Recreation's fitness programming as their Senior Fitness and Wellness Coordinator. In her spare time, she teaches three academic classes (Helping Skills, Peer Health Education, and First Year Experience), facilitates yoga for her local county Parks & Rec department, and rock climbs with her husband.
Lauren Philips is currently a Senior Academic Advisor in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, and she has been an advisor with the college since 2010. She also serves as the program coordinator for the GW Early College Program, through which high school students from the School Without Walls complete their high school requirements by earning an Associate's Degree from GW. Lauren completed her Ed.D in Higher Education Administration through GW in 2019 and also holds a Master's degree in English from Georgetown University. She completed her Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and French, with a minor in History, at Washington University in St. Louis. Lauren is originally from Monterey, California, and she enjoys traveling, time with family and friends, and taking time out for the gym, a long walk, or a good show.
Dylan joined the GW Office of Health Promotion & Education in October 2022, where he currently serves as the university's Substance Use Education Specialist. Prior to joining GW, he worked in university health centers, improving student wellbeing and success throughout the lifespan. He received his BSPH degree in Public Health with a Minor in Psychology, and his MPH degree in Behavioral Health from the University of South Florida. Dylan is a born and raised Florida man, and in his free time loves hiking, biking, swimming, volleyball, video games, watching sports, and has a new found interest in bird-watching.
Aki Regan is the Senior Study Abroad Advisor at GW’s Office for Study Abroad, where she advises students in the Global Bachelor's Program, the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and the Milken Institute School of Public Health. She began her career in international education at Marymount University before joining GW, following her work at the Embassy of Japan in Washington, DC.
As an undergraduate, Aki studied abroad in Japan and later spent four years living there, teaching English and working in tourism. She also supported interpretation and translation efforts between the Embassy of Jordan in Tokyo and her local town’s government during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University and is in the final semester of her MA in Intercultural Communication with a focus on International Education at American University. Outside of work, she enjoys thrifting, hiking, exploring the DMV’s food and art scene, going to live shows, and traveling."
Megan Rusconi-Warner is a Student Services Coordinator within the CCAS Office of Graduate Studies. As a CCAS alum, she understands what it is like to start at GW as an incoming freshman. Megan has experience working with students of all ages - from elementary through graduate school. She grew up in Durham, North Carolina. At GW, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a concentration in Cognitive Neuroscience. Outside of work, Megan loves watching soccer, going hiking, and hanging out at home with her partner and their cat, Ellie.
Kim Rush has worked for the GW Office for Study Abroad (OSA) since August 2018. She currently serves as the Assistant Director within OSA. Kim holds a Bachelor of Arts in French and International Studies from Lebanon Valley College and a Master of Arts in International Education from GW’s Graduate School of Education and Human Development. She is also a Fulbright Recipient of the International Education Administrators’ grant in Taiwan in 2025. Prior to joining GW, Kim worked as an enrollment specialist for an international student health insurance brokerage. Kim is originally from outside of Philadelphia, PA, and loves traveling, musical theater, trying new foods and exploring DC through walking!
Emilee Saigh has worked in higher education for three years full-time and has been at GW for a little over a year and a half. She graduated from the University of Georgia with her M.Ed. in College Student Affairs Administration, and since then, has worked for Orientation programs, cultivating spaces for new students, families and supporters, and current student leaders to find the spaces and places they belong on campus. This will be her second year teaching CCAS 1001, and when she's not at GW, she can be found devouring a romance novel or ten, taking a walk at the Mall, traveling to see her people, or at the Eastern Market flea market.
My name is Zacarias Samara (Zack). I was born in Corpus Christy Texas but I grew up in Mexico City where I completed my formal education.
I am currently working at Columbian College of Art and Sciences for four years as a Sr. Student Services Coordinator. However, I’ve been working at The George Washington University for 20 year. Zack loves to travel, read, taken care of plants, and of course teaching.
Kari Scott (she/her) is living proof that career paths aren’t always straight lines—and that’s a good thing. She's been a career coach, artist, nonprofit ops manager, college prof, and yes, she once made giant animatronic robots for Chuck E. Cheese. Wild, right? She has worked in higher education for over 20 years, helping students like you find their path, pitch their story, and secure that dream internship, job, or graduate school spot. She holds degrees in fiber arts (she creates and loves teaching!) and currently serves as a career coach for arts, media, and communications students at GW. She is all about helping you explore what matters to you, try new stuff, and figure it out as you go.
Erin Speck is a faculty member with the Interior Architecture program, Corcoran School of the Arts and Design. Prior to teaching, Erin worked for several design firms before starting her own firm in the Washington, DC metro area. Her family lives on a small farm in Maryland where Erin enjoys her time with their pets, gardening, and all outdoor activities! She frequently travels to Canada, where she is from, and enjoys introducing students to sustainable and human wellness practices on Short Term Abroad Programs.
Emily Steck has been a POD 3 Advisor in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences since August of 2024. Prior to working at GW, Emily spent five years teaching 8th Grade English Language Arts in DC Public Schools. A Bristol, Connecticut native, Emily has lived and worked in Cape Town, South Africa, Brooklyn, NY and San Antonio, TX.
Emily has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Human Rights with a minor in Art History from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science in Education from Johns Hopkins University. In her spare time, Emily loves to visit local art museums, go to the movies, and scout out used book stores around DC.
Nakiella has over 18 years of experience in higher education in various roles. She has been an Assistant Director in CCAS since March 2022. She holds a Master of Education in Instructional Technology and a Bachelor Science in Child and Adolescent Studies. Nakiella enjoys long walks around her neighborhood, a rainy day, reading, genealogical research, listening and dancing to dancehall and smooth jazz.
Candace Sumner-Robinson is the Director of Undergraduate Advising for the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences. Originally from the Washington, D.C. area, she has spent 18 years working for colleges and universities within the mid-Atlantic region. Candace is also a Ph.D. Candidate in the Sociology of Education program within the NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. She enjoys theater (especially musical theater), listening to music (especially 90's R&B, 80's and 90's hip hop, pop and go-go), visiting museums and cool restaurants, traveling throughout the US and around the world (especially via train), and spending time with her family and friends.
Amanda Tompkins has been teaching CCAS 1001 since Fall 2023 and it has been one of the highlights of her GW experience! Amanda was born and raised in Tacoma, WA and called Boston home for almost 8 years before moving to DC in January 2023. She earner her Bachelor of Science in History with minors in International Affairs and Political Science at Northeastern University. Amanda loves reading, baking, exploring DC and hanging out with her cats Tuukka, RC, Vivianne, and Rocket!
Nia Washington has been a Community Coordinator in Amsterdam Hall since January 2023. Prior to coming to GWU, Nia was a Program Advisor at Valencia College in Orlando, Florida. Nia was born and raised in Orlando, Florida (yes, she's been to Disney lol). She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Human Communication from the University of Central Florida and is currently pursuing her Masters of Arts in Organizational Leadership and Learning from GWU. Nia loves traveling, going on scenic walks, the beach, and building Lego sets.
Sean Watley was born and raised in Connecticut and has a passion for community building, mentorship, and student success. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. He later received his Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from Florida Atlantic University. Sean is especially passionate about supporting first-generation college students and helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, trying new food spots, playing basketball, and building community wherever he goes.
Dr. Laci Weeden has worked at GW in the Division of Student Affairs for two years. Prior to working at GW, Dr. Weeden worked in Student Affairs at Georgia Tech, UC San Diego, NC State, UNC Charlotte, and University of Akron. Dr. Weeden was raised in the DMV area and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Appalachian State University, her Master of Science in College Administration from Indiana State University, and her Doctorate of Education in Student Affairs Administration from University of Georgia. Dr. Laci enjoys movies, traveling, spending time with her family and her nine-year-old dog, Charlotte.
Dr. Samantha Weiss started working as the Manager of the Learning Assistant Program in Academic Commons in October 2024. Prior to coming to GWU, she worked at West Chester University in PA. She earned her BA in communications from Elizabethtown College, her MA in literary and textual studies from Bowling Green State University, and her EdD from West Chester University. When not working, she loves to read, travel, play with her cat Peanut, and do aerial yoga.
Jasmine Williams has been at GW for January 2022. She currently serves as a Program Manager and Academic Advisor in the University Honors Program (UHP) working with students from all schools and majors at GW. In addition to her role as an academic advisor, she has taught CCAS 1001 since Fall 2023. One of her favorite things about teaching the course is helping students navigate their first semester at GW and finding connections outside of the classroom. Prior to coming to GW, she previously served as an academic advisor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN. Jasmine earned her master’s degree in educational leadership from Western Michigan University. She loves listening to music, attending events in the DMV, and boxing.