Salvador Mora, Interim Director of Academic Advising

Salvador Mora has been an academic advisor with the Academic Success Center since April 2009, working with students exploring majors as freshmen and sophomores. Sal is also an adult-learner concierge and works with nontraditional students returning to college after having been out of school for at least two years and adults looking to explore alternate educational opportunities. Sal began working at UNLV in November 2005 at The Center for Academic Enrichment and Outreach. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Counseling — both from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Michael Terry, Interim Associate Director of Academic Advising

Michael Terry has experience working in multiple roles within higher education, including tutor, instructor, tutor coordinator, advisor, and advising program director. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Central Arkansas, his Master of Arts in American Studies at Utah State University, and his Master of Public Administration from the University of Wyoming. Immediately before joining the advising team at UNLV's Academic Success Center, Michael advised first-generation and low-income college students at the University of Wyoming, assisting them with the transition to university life.

Sasha Scott, Academic Advisor

Sasha earned her B.A. in Psychology from Idaho State University (Spring 2011), and then came to UNLV to pursue her M.Ed. in School Counseling (Fall, 2013). She spent two years working as an academic success coach, helping students with areas such as time management, organization, test taking, and study strategies, before moving to her position as an academic advisor for exploring majors in November 2013. She loves working with students and helping them find their path.

Nicole Stella, RPC Senior Advisor

Nicole earned her B.A. in Spanish (Spring '09) and her M.A. in Educational Leadership (Spring '11) from the University of Nevada, Reno. Following that, she moved to Colorado to work with on-campus students as a Hall Director at the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Colorado Boulder. She has experience working with diverse populations of high-achieving undergraduate students to support their academic and personal success and was recently recognized as the "Outstanding Professional of the Year" by the College Personnel Association of Colorado (2014-2015). Nicole is excited for the opportunity to support another great Nevada university and is learning to say "Go Rebels"!

Debbie Pattni, Academic Advisor

Debbie is a new Graduate Student Adviser in the Academic Success Center. She previously worked as an Academic Success Coach for the ASC from 2014-2015. She also taught a COLA 100E First-Year Seminar for Exploring Majors in the ASC. She graduates with a Masters in Higher Education from UNLV in spring 2016 and plans to continue working with students to be successful in college both academically and personally. Debbie has two children who are Rebels! Her other daughter is a possible future Rebel. Debbie completed Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration/Marketing and International Studies from the University of the Pacific as well as a Master’s degree from UNLV in Hotel Administration and a Master of Business Administration. As a first generation, Mexican-American student, she believes everyone who wants to be successful in college will make it happen with the right help and advice. Se habla español.

Sheetal Survase, Academic Advisor

Sheetal earned her bachelor’s degree in management of human resources from Excelsior College, followed by a master’s degree in public policy management from Monash University in Australia. She comes with extensive nonprofit experience, having worked with local and international agencies in multiple roles and settings. Prior to joining UNLV, Sheetal worked with academically at-risk and high-achieving youth. She enjoyed connecting her students to learning opportunities, motivating them to create and work towards attaining their academic and personal goals, and helping them develop skills necessary for future success. This experience, along with her rewarding work as a student mentor in college, inspired her to pursue a career in academic advising. Sheetal is excited to be a part of the advising team at UNLV's Academic Success Center and looks forward to utilizing her training and experience to assist students in understanding their curriculum, reaching their graduation goals, and making the most of their Rebel experience!

Ruthie Thomas, Academic Advising Specialist

Ruthie earned her B.A in Psychology (Spring ‘13) and her M.Ed in School Counseling (Fall ‘15) from UNLV. She comes back to the Academic Success Center after previously working as the graduate assistant for advising. Throughout her time at UNLV Ruthie has worked with various other departments across campus, including the Student Recreation and Wellness Center and with the PEX program. She is excited to be back working with exploring major students and assisting them with their goals.

Beth Gersten, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs

Beth Gersten started as an academic advisor at UNLV in the summer of 2010. Prior to that, she worked in orientation and new student programs at Suffolk University and Northeastern University. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Duke University in 1996, and a master's degree in college student personnel from Bowling Green State University in 1999. Gersten is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in higher education administration at UNLV. She enjoys staying active by playing softball and training for triathlons.

Nicole T. Pavlico, M.A., Associate Director

Nicole Pavlico has been with UNLV Lee Business School since 1999.

Gene R. Kirschner, Senior Academic Advisor

Gene R. Kirschner has been advising at UNLV in the Lee Business School since 1998. He graduated from Seattle University in 1964 with a bachelor's degree in natural science, and earned a master's degree in economics from UNLV in 1981. After earning his degrees, while still working in private industry, Kirschner was a part-time economics instructor at UNLV for 12 years before joining the Lee Business School as a full-time advisor. Notable achievements include Peace Corps volunteer teacher in Somalia 1964-66 and the winner of the most outstanding UNLV Master's Thesis for 1980.

Dana Angioni, Academic Advisor and Leadership Development Coordinator

Dana Angioni is originally from Long Island, New York but has been in the Las Vegas area for more than 15 years. She earned her bachelor's degree in hotel administration and master's degree in educational leadership from UNLV. Angioni started her career at Chapman University working in residence life and student conduct and then joined the advising team in UNLV's Lee Business School in 2009. In her spare time, Angioni enjoys spending time with her husband, Marco and their dog, Bella. She also loves UNLV basketball, traveling, reading and decorating.

John Starkey, Academic Advisor

John Starkey grew up in West Virginia, but moved to Las Vegas after graduating high school. He doesn't miss the cold weather. In 2005, he began pursuing his B.S.B.A. in Marketing at UNLV and eventually graduated with his first degree in 2010. John then went on to pursue a Master's degree in Education at UNLV in hopes to prepare himself for a career in higher education. He graduated with his Masters in 2012 and immediately began working for UNLV's Lee Business School as an Academic Advisor. He also teaches First-Year Seminar courses for the business college and is an activist for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – NV Chapter.

Veronica Cazares, Academic Advisor

Veronica Cazares grew up in Utah, and moved to Las Vegas in 2014 where she joined Lee Business Undergraduate Advising. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, and pursued her Master of Public Administration with a student services emphasis following; both from the same institution. She enjoys working with student’s to help them figure out their end goal and how to get there. In her spare time she likes to run, bowl on a league, and read.

Kiley Johansen, Academic Advisor

Kiley Johansen is originally from Hays, Kansas and moved to Las Vegas in 2015 to join the team in the Lee Business School undergraduate advising office. After earning a bachelor's degree in Physical Education from Fort Hays State University, she then went on to attain a master's degree in College Student Development from Oklahoma State University. Kiley enjoys running, reading, golfing, and playing with her dog, Gundy.

Kristin Della Sala, Academic Advisor

Kristin Della Sala is originally from Plymouth, Michigan and moved to Las Vegas in May 2016. She earned her B.A. in Broadcasting & Cinematic Arts from Central Michigan University and M.Ed. in Counselor Education/Student Affairs from Clemson University. After graduate school, Kristin worked in Residential Life at Clemson University and moved to Indiana to work as an Academic Advisor at Purdue University. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys running, hiking, and exploring new places. She is very excited to be a part of the Lee Business School Undergraduate Advising Office, where she can pursue her passion for working with college students!

Julia Lapham, Academic Advisor

Julia Lapham grew up in Carson City, Nevada and eventually attended the University of Nevada, Reno where she received her B.S. in Business Management. After graduation, Julia traveled full time as a leadership consultant for her sorority’s national headquarters as she visited universities across the country and worked with both chapter leaders and campus professionals. After this year of travel Julia pursued her M.Ed in Student Affairs at Iowa State University to further prepare herself to support students and help them achieve their vision of success! Outside of work, Julia enjoys cooking, golfing, and volunteering for her sorority.

Ed Ronca, Director of Education Student Services Center

Ed Ronca came to UNLV in 2003 to work as an enrollment counselor in the registrar's office, and then in 2007, he became an advisor in the College of Education. His experience in the registrar's office, as well as 33 years experience as a teacher and coach has been very beneficial to the education advising center. Ronca has a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in developmental reading. He is the chair of the Adult Learning Advisory Board and enjoys fishing, reading, exercising, and watching football and baseball.

Lauren Layton, Associate Director

Lauren started her journey as an Academic Advisor at UNLV in August 2012. A Burnt Hills, New York native, Lauren graduated from the State University of New York at Oswego in 2009 where she earned her degree in Public Relations and Health Science, and played field hockey. Upon discovering her love for Higher Education involvement, she continued her studies and graduated from Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina in 2012 with a Master's degree in Counselor Education, Student Affairs. Lauren's professional background includes experience in new student and first-year initiatives, campus programming, student conduct, admissions, residence life, career services, advising and supervising student leaders, and academic advising. Lauren is excited and extremely proud to have joined the Rebel community and looks forward to meeting more students and supporting, encouraging and motivating them while they reach their personal, academic and professional goals.

Monica Moreno, Assistant Director

Monica Moreno is originally from Southern California and relocated to Las Vegas in 2007. She joined the UNLV College of Education in May 2007 where she worked as the Office Manager for the Advising Center until becoming an Academic Advisor, herself, in September 2011. Monica earned her Bachelor's Degree in Human Services from UNLV in August 2011 and serves as the Orientation Coordinator for the College of Education. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and energetic toddler, traveling and shopping.

Daniel Henry, Academic Advisor

Dan moved to Las Vegas from upstate New York in 1996 and attended CSN part time and ended up taking time off to raise a family before returning to college. After restarting his education again at CSN, Dan transferred to UNLV in 2010, and graduated in Fall 2014 with a degree in Secondary Education focus in English along with a History minor. He decided rather than teaching he would like to have a career in higher education and he is ecstatic to now have come full circle being able to now advise and help students in the same program he attended himself!

Lauren Argier, Academic Advisor

Lauren Argier is originally from Palm Springs, CA and moved to Las Vegas in 2015. After earning a bachelor's degree in Communication from California State University San Bernardino, she then went on to attain a master's degree in Education Counseling from University of Redlands. Lauren started her career at Desert Sands Unified School district as a school counselor and then joined the advising team at City University of Seattle as an academic advisor. She is excited to be working in the College of Education at UNLV. Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children, shopping and trying new restaurants.

Daniel Mendoza, Academic Adviser & Recruiter

Daniel Mendoza grew up in Southern California and has spent time living in Italy, Spain and most recently Australia for a year. Daniel has a passion for travel and staying active in the gym and outdoors. In 2009 he earned his B.A. in Communications from California State University, Fullerton. During his undergrad he worked in the Admissions & Records department with Fullerton College where he became passionate about student services and higher education. As a result he decided to pursue a career in student affairs and received his M.S. in College Counseling and Student Development from Azusa Pacific University in 2014. His professional experience includes residency advising, academic advising and international student services. Daniel is excited to be joining the College of Education, the UNLV team and especially looking forward to getting involved on and off campus.

Jennifer Kennedy, Director of Advising

Jennifer Kennedy began working at UNLV in 2008, first as an advisor in the College of Engineering and then as the Director of the Engineering Advising Center. A Las Vegas transplant since 1992, she holds a bachelor's degree in political science from Pepperdine University, and is working on her Masters in Public Administration. What began as a job for her in advising has evolved into a lifelong career and passion for helping students reach their personal and scholastic goals. She and her husband are the proud parents of two wonderful children who are the light of their lives. Their home is also shared by their cat and dog, who allow them access to the sofa (on occasion). She enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, cooking, going to church and visiting with her friends and family.

Chris Parker, Associate Director

Chris Parker is a native of Las Vegas and graduated from UNLV with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering in 2008 and obtained his master's degree in civil engineering in 2011. Additionally, Parker has a bachelor's degree in business management from the University of Utah. Prior to becoming an academic advisor for the College of Engineering in October 2011, he spent many years in the construction and civil engineering profession as a project manager designing multiple commercial and residential projects in Las Vegas and surrounding areas. Away from work you can find him training or coaching others for endurance cycling events or marathons. He is also heavily involved in the community with Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation, as a board member, camp counselor and cycling/running coach.

Rosemary Le, Academic Advisor

A native of California, Rosemary Le moved to Las Vegas in 2013. She possesses over four years experience in academic and admissions advising from the University of California, San Diego. She holds a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Computing and the Arts and a minor in Computer Science from UCSD. Le is delighted to join the dynamic team of UNLV advisors and is gratified to be able to assist UNLV students realize their academic goals.

Jaime Carbajal Jr., Academic Advisor

Jaime Carbajal Jr. is originally from Deming, New Mexico where his academic ambition provided him an opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology at the University of Arizona in 2009. It was during his undergraduate career where he soon found his passion of assisting students from diverse backgrounds to not only transition into higher education, but also grow and be successful as well. Soon after, he earned his Master of Arts degree in Higher Education from the University of Arizona in 2011. The experience brought him to UNLV in 2011, where he was a Financial Aid Counselor & Process Analyst assisting students with financial resources to help fund their education. At UNLV, Jaime has become active with the campus community by serving with recruitment events, financial aid outreach, co-instructing a leadership course, and serving as an advisor to multiple student organizations. When he is not advising, you can find him staying in shape with swim workouts or being a film and music enthusiast.

Shae Deschutter, Interventional Advising Coordinator

Shae Deschutter is a UNLV alumna completing both her Bachelors of Arts in Criminal Justice and Masters of Education in Higher Education Leadership as a rebel. As an undergraduate she was a low income first-generation college student and embraced the many opportunities UNLV offers its students. It was through her campus involvement that she realized UNLV was where she wanted to build a career. Shae has worked at UNLV since 2007 and worked in both the Registrar’s Office and Financial Aid and Scholarships before accepting her position as the College of Engineering’s Interventional Advising Coordinator in 2015. She has a passion for understanding and impacting student retention and enjoys using her experience and knowledge to help students find their own success. Outside of the office, she enjoys running and spending time with her family.

Miles Boulton, Academic Advisor

Miles Boulton was born and raised in Las Vegas, NV. He received a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from UNLV. Prior to his current position, Miles worked for the Office of the Provost as a retention, progression, and completion specialist where he assisted in the coordination of University wide events such as Rebels R.I.S.E and UNLV Creates. But his love for UNLV didn't originate there, Miles also worked at UNLV's Paradise Campus for the Department of Continuing Education. In his spare time, Miles enjoys hiking, getting lost in a good book, attempting to cook food without burning it, and power naps. You can often find Miles cheering for the Rebels at various sporting events and displaying his pride for scarlet and gray. GO REBS!

Julie Johnson, Director of Advising

Originally from Boston, Julie Johnson received her bachelor's degree in English with a concentration in journalism and is completing her master's degree in English at UNLV. During the last 23 years, she has taught classes in the English department, University College and at the College of Southern Nevada, and was also an athletic academic advisor before joining the College of Fine Arts. Johnson has also spent a few years working at a community college as the interim director of admissions and spent a year as a visiting professor of English at the United States Coast Guard Academy. She lives in Las Vegas with her children and is a die-hard Boston Red Sox fan.

Stacy Shapin, Assistant Director of Advising

Originally from Flagstaff, AZ, Stacy Shapin earned her Bachelor's Degree in Arts Management from Northern Arizona University. Stacy started working at UNLV in 2007, where she earned her Master's degree in Higher Education in May 2014. Prior to joining the College of Fine Arts Advising staff, Stacy was the Office Manager for the UNLV School of Music and she enjoys continuing to work with UNLV Music students in an advising capacity. Stacy lives in Las Vegas with her husband and daughter and enjoys a good book or movie, spending an afternoon outside, singing, playing the piano and musical theatre.

Kristie Berthelotte, Academic Advisor

Kristie Berthelotte is an Academic Advisor in the College of Fine Arts. She was born and raised in Las Vegas, and has a BA in Psychology and a Master's in Business Administration. She's been with Fine Arts since September 2012, and has been at UNLV since 2001. Contact Kristie with any questions regarding Architecture, Art, Dance, Entertainment Engineering, Music, and Theatre programs.

Rochelle Walker, Academic Advisor

A native of New Jersey, Rochelle moved to Las Vegas to in 2006 to perform in Stomp Out Loud at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. Prior to her career in entertainment, Rochelle worked in Admissions and Institutional Advancement at The College of New Jersey and the College of Saint Elizabeth. She joined the UNLV community in the fall of 2010 and has worked in the Offices of Admissions and the Registrar. Rochelle earned her B.A. in Journalism with a concentration in Public Relations from Temple University and is currently working to complete her Master’s in Higher Education. With a love of all things musical theater and dance, Rochelle is excited to bring her experience in higher education and the entertainment industry to Fine Arts Advising to assist students in finding a career in the arts.

Vaune Kadlubek, Director of Advising

UNLV alumna and current director of the Division of Health Sciences Advising Center ('80 BS Physical Education, '83 MS in Exercise Physiology). Was the first female water polo player to play on a men's high school team. She coached the USA Women's Water Polo Team, played for ten years on the first USA Women's Water Polo Team, and was inducted into the USA Water Polo Hall of Fame in 2004. She enjoys all sports, friends and family outings!

Melaney Jones, Assistant Director of Advising

Melaney Jones was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. She received her Bachelor's degree in Music Performance and her Master's degree in Higher Education at UNLV. Prior to joining the Division of Health Sciences Advising Center, Melaney was the Program Assistant for the UNLV SAGE Academy where she worked closely with highly gifted students. In her spare time, she continues to perform and record with various musical groups, enjoys playing harp every Sunday at her church, traveling, but most of all - spending time with her husband and her three boys.

Abegail Reyes, Senior Academic Advisor

Abegail (Abby) Reyes grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and started volunteering at a young age by working with non-profit organizations. Prior to relocating to Las Vegas in 2011, she spent a year and a half traveling the Philippines performing volunteer work and promoting public health in government funded clinics. She went on to earn her Bachelor's degree in Health Education and is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Public Health at UNLV. She is excited to share her knowledge and experience with students to help them achieve their goals. Abby enjoys spending her leisure time hiking, crafting, and playing field hockey.

Wayne Arnold, Academic Advisor

Wayne Arnold was raised in Las Vegas and received a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration from UNLV. Prior to his current position, Wayne worked as a Peer Advisor for the Division of Health Sciences. Wayne enjoys going to UNLV basketball games, and being involved in the UNLV community. In the future he plans to pursue a graduate degree in Higher Education from UNLV.

Najia Haidery, Academic Advisor

Najia Haidery moved to United State in 2003. Prior to 2003, Najia was working for the United Nations supporting poor families in third world countries. Najia received her Bachelor’s of Sciences degree in Comprehensive Medical Imagining with concentration on Medical Ultrasound from UNLV. While pursuing her degree, Najia worked in the Division of Health Sciences Advising Center and medical clinics as a front desk receptionist. When she was working for the Division of Health Sciences Advising Center she developed the desire and passion to support students with their educational goals and wanted to pursue a career in higher education system. Najia enjoys her career as an academic advisor and the advising center she works for. In her leisure time, Najia likes to watch basketball, go hiking, working out, and reading. She plans on starting her master’s degree in Fall 2016 in Higher Education.

Greg Stephany, Director of Advising

Currently the Director of Advising in the Honors College at UNLV, Greg came to UNLV in 2006 as the Curriculum Integration Coordinator in the Office of International Programs. He earned both his undergraduate and graduate degrees in New York, where he began his more than 20 years of experience in higher education.

Tiffany Schmier, Assistant Director of Advising

A native of Southern California, Tiffany now calls Las Vegas home. Tiffany earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees at UNLV, most recently completing a Masters of Education in Educational Leadership. She serves as the coordinator for the Bennett Honors Mentor program and also can be found executing Honors College events. She is hoping to enter an Ed. S program in School Psychology so she can continue to learn how to best serve students of all age groups. In her precious free time she can be found playing with her two children, enjoying coffee at Grouchy John’s Coffee Shop and pining copious amounts on Pinterest!

Daniel Coyle, Academic Advisor

A native of Las Vegas, Daniel earned both his M.A. and B.A. degrees in communication studies from UNLV. He joined the Honors College staff in 2013 to help advise students, teach courses, and expand community support. In addition to academic advising, Daniel serves as the Director of Communications for the college. Daniel also leads the Honors Rebellion, a team of students who train together to run obstacle course events each year. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, trail running, playing instruments, but most of all – spending time with his wife and two young daughters.

Megan Hullinger, Academic Advisor

A native of Central Illinois, Megan Hullinger earned a BA in speech communication and an MS in Technology at Eastern Illinois University. Hullinger joined the UNLV community in 2008 serving in various capacities, including transition programming, student advising, and supervision. She has served as an instructor for the Leadership and Civic Engagement minor, facilitated numerous leadership retreats and programs, and continues to participate in campus committees. In her spare time, Hullinger enjoys participating in vocal performances, catching up on episodes of Doctor Who, and keeping up with her busy family.

Sherri Theriault, Director of Advising

Sherri Theriault is a native Las Vegan who came to UNLV in 1989. After several years of working in the hospitality industry, working in the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration was a natural fit for her. She worked for the dean of the college for ten years then became director of undergraduate advising in 1999. She was the recipient of the Regents' Academic Advisor Award in 2002, served as vice-chair of the UNLV Academic Advising Council and works to promote the importance of undergraduate advising at UNLV. She has a bachelor's in education from UNLV.

Antonio Villegas, Associate Director of Advising

Antonio Villegas is originally from the "Heart of the South Bay" California and relocated to Las Vegas to pursue a bachelor's degree at UNLV. After graduating with his Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Studies with a minor in Entertainment Management, he joined the Office of the Registrar as an Enrollment Services Representative/Residency Evaluator. In early 2012, he transition to the Office for Student Advising in the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration as an academic advisor. In spring 2015, he earned his Master of Public Administration and was inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.

Allison Garcia Potain, Assistant Director of Advising

A native of California, Allison joined UNLV in September 2012 to help serve UNLV’s McNair Scholars in the Center for Academic Enrichment and Outreach (CAEO). She holds a B.A. degree in Liberal Studies from California State University, San Bernardino, and a M.A. degree in Education: Digital Teaching and Learning, from Azusa Pacific University. Prior to her current position Allison served as an advisor for the College of Engineering and the College of Sciences. She has a passion for higher education and thoroughly enjoys establishing collaborative partnerships with students, faculty, and staff to help students reach their educational and career goals. When she is not advising Allison can be found spending time with her family, dogs, doing outdoor activities, and serving as a volunteer for the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation.

Lisa Annebro, Senior Academic Advisor

Lisa Annebro has been advising at UNLV in the Hotel College since 2008. She attended UNLV and earned a bachelor's degree in hotel administration in 1998 and a master's degree in French in 2002.

Amanda Lange, Academic Advisor

Amanda Lange began working at UNLV in the Admission and Registrar's Office in 2001 — the same year she began her undergraduate program. She held positions of increasing responsibility within this area until she moved to advising in the Hotel College in 2008. Lange finished her undergraduate degree at UNLV in 2006, earning a bachelor's degree in university studies with an emphasis in education and anthropology. She is currently pursuing an advanced degree in education. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son, especially at Rebel football and basketball games.

Mariellen Van Winkle, Academic Advisor

Mariellen Van Winkle is a native from Massachusetts, however has lived in various parts of the country and abroad as part of a military family. She relocated to Las Vegas in 1996 to attend UNLV as a student. She began working at UNLV in 2006 for the Enrollment Services Center, obtaining her degree in Public Administration in 2012. She left the University for a few years to spend time with her newborn son and has returned as an Academic Advisor for the Office of Student Advising at the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration in 2015. Becoming an advisor felt like the natural move as she had the experience as both a student and a staff member at UNLV. Most importantly, she enjoyed working with students to help develop their potential and to help them make decisions about their future. Utilizing her own experiences helps her to understand the needs of her students. In her spare time she enjoys spending as much time with her husband and son as possible. She enjoys rooting for the Boston Red Sox, reading young adult novels and historical fiction, and working on crafts, such as making cards, scrapbooking, and cross stitching.

Celinda Miranda-LaBella, RPC Senior Academic Advisor

Celinda Miranda-LaBella grew up in Miami, FL, but has lived in the Las Vegas valley since 2013. She began her career at UNLV with the Student Union & Event Services office. Previously, she worked at Campus Labs in Buffalo, New York as an assessment and involvement consultant. Celinda holds her master's degree in Higher Education & Student Affairs from Louisiana State University, and her bachelor's degree in Communications from Florida International University. Professionally, she has worked in a number of areas of student affairs, including student involvement, student conduct/judicial affairs, fraternity/sorority affairs, student activities and orientation/first-year-experience. She is passionate about helping UNLV students find success, and she is very excited to be joining the Hotel College Advising team! In her spare time, she is on the Board of Directors for the Fabulous Sin City Rollergirls and serves as a national officer and advisor for Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority. You can likely find her on the weekends with her husband, Philip, and her dog, Frieda.

Megan Kolvenbach, Academic Advisor

Megan Kolvenbach is a native Las Vegan who began at UNLV as a student in 2010. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2014 and her Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2016. Throughout her time at UNLV, she has worked in the Department of Mathematical Sciences as a student worker, the Department of Educational and Clinical Studies as a graduate assistant, and the Counseling and Psychological Services as a clinical intern. Additionally, she has served as president of UNLV’s chapter of Psi Chi, the international honor society in Psychology. She joined the Office for Student Advising in the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration in August 2016 and is so excited to help fellow rebels achieve success! In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, running, and scrapbooking.

Lea Sexton, Director of Advising

Lea Sexton is the founding director of the Wilson Advising Center, which opened in January of 1997. Before returning to the College of Liberal Arts in 1996 to start the Wilson Advising Center, Sexton was an academic advisor in the Department of Athletics at UNLV for six years. She received her bachelor's and master's degrees in English from UNLV, where she taught as a graduate assistant and part-time instructor from 1986 to 1992. Sexton received the first Regents' Academic Advising Award in 1999 as well as the CSUN Professional Staff Member of the Year Award in 1999. In 2000, she was the President's Professional Staff Member of the Year. She is a member of the UNLV Commencement Committee and a board member for PHI KAPPA PHI National Honor Society, Chapter 100.

Cheryl Tillotson, Associate Director

Cheryl Tillotson has more than 12 years of academic advising experience at UNLV and has been specifically advising students who are exploring majors for nine of those years. She earned both her bachelor's degree in psychology, with a minor in English, and a master's degree in educational leadership from UNLV. In 2008, Tillotson was the proud recipient of the UNLV Undergraduate Academic Advisor Award. In her spare time, she likes to watch as much tennis and football as possible, as well as to go shopping and to the movies with her friends.

Derek Sommer, Assistant Director

Derek Sommer is a lifelong resident of Las Vegas. He attended a local high school before pursuing an undergraduate degree in English, with an emphasis in creative writing. He also completed his master's degree in secondary education at UNLV. Sommer is active in the community and very passionate about the Runnin' Rebels.

Oak Vichaikul, Senior Academic Advisor / Assistant Pre-Law Coordinator

Oak Vichaikul has been an academic advisor at UNLV since 2006. Originally from Chicago, IL, he earned his bachelor's degree in music at Millikin University and a master's degree in music composition at the University of Iowa. He is also the Assistant Prelaw coordinator at UNLV and advises students from all majors who are interested in pursuing a law degree. He is a member of the Western Association of Prelaw Advisors (WAPLA) where he volunteers his time to maintain their website and coordinate law fairs on campus. In addition to advising, Oak actively pursues the use of technology in advising to connect with students.

Tracy Johnson, Senior Academic Advisor

Tracy Johnson is originally from Anaheim Hills, Calif. She has more than 10 years of academic advising experience at UNLV. She earned her bachelor's degree in social science studies from UNLV and her master's degree in psychology from NCU. Tracy comes from a military family and is actively involved in the Non-traditional Scholarship Committee and the Student Veteran and Military Family Services Committee. Along with advising the general liberal arts population, she serves as the liaison for non-traditional and veteran students within the college. She runs the centers website and Facebook page to keep students updated on upcoming events and items relevant to Liberal Arts majors. In 2013, Tracy received the Advisor Appreciation Student's Choice Award and the NACADA – Excellence in Advising Award. She enjoys hiking and traveling, she has hiked in eight National Parks and traveled to nine countries. Tracy is also a Faithful San Francisco 49ers fan.

Marlon Urquico, Academic Advisor

Marlon Urquico is a native of Las Vegas, Nevada. He earned both his bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in political science and a master’s degree in history from UNLV. His fields of interest are African American History, the Atlantic Slave Trade and US Foreign Policy during the 1960s. Marlon previously worked as an Academic Success Coach and a COLA 100E instructor at the Academic Success Center before coming to the Wilson Advising Center. Marlon has a passion for education and helping students achieve their academic goals. He also has a particular interest in working with liberal arts students and in helping them discover what they love. In his spare time, Marlon likes to spend time with his family and play with his two young nephews.

Janet Reiber, Director of Advising

Janet Reiber has been the director of advising for the UNLV College of Sciences since 2002. She graduated from George Mason University in 1989 with a bachelor's degree in biology, and from UNLV in 1997 with a master's degree in science. Her personal interests are her husband Carl and daughter Dallas, reading, trailer camping, stained glass, beading, and her two little Papillons.

Miriam Seaman, Associate Director of Advising

Miriam Seaman grew up in Columbus, Ohio and is the third of four siblings. She graduated from Bowling Green State University in 2008 with a bachelor's degree in Communications. After graduating, she working in the automobile insurance industry for a few years before returning to school to complete a Master's in Education from Kent State University in 2012. As a graduate student, she worked with Exploring students for two years. She has been an academic advisor in the College of Sciences since April 2012. She loves the weather in Las Vegas and appreciates being able to spend time outdoors year-round. In her spare time, she enjoys going to concerts, hiking, painting, reading, bicycling, impromptu road trips to California, and scrap-booking.

Samantha Grider, Academic Advisor

Samantha (Sam) Grider is a recent graduate of the Higher Education Master’s program at UNLV. She has lived in Las Vegas for most of her life, and received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting at UNLV before going on to graduate school. While working on her Master’s , Sam worked in the Academic Success Center with the Tutoring and Supplemental Instruction programs, eventually becoming the Graduate Assistant for SI. Sam and her husband are both video game enthusiasts, leading to their Portal-themed wedding in 2014. Sam’s many interests also include spending time in nature, writing poetry, and she is an avid theme park attraction enthusiast.

Peter Clancy, Academic Advisor

Peter Clancy has lived in several states (NJ, AZ, VA, MO, MD) but now calls Nevada home. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Entrepreneurship from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Missouri. Before joining UNLV, Peter was a Program Coordinator/Academic Advisor for graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Maryland's Smith School of Business. Outside of work, Peter and his wife enjoy hiking and camping, thrift-store shopping, scuba diving and attending college basketball and football games...and he will never turn down a friendly game of chess or a trip to a Vegas buffet.

Tara Randolph, Academic Advisor

Tara Randolph grew up 30 minutes inland from the famous Jersey Shore. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Rutgers University where she was very involved in Greek life and student life. After college, Tara packed up and moved down south to pursue her Master of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of South Carolina. In graduate school, she gained experience in career development, academic advising, first-year seminars, and campus wellness. Prior to moving to Las Vegas, she worked in admissions at a South Carolina technical college. Tara is passionate about animal rescue and has volunteered her time to rehabilitate dogs that were saved from abusive situations. She is a proud military wife and mom of two rescue mutts. In her spare time, she enjoys doing yoga, hiking, taking photos, and exploring Las Vegas with her husband and friends.

Rimi Marwah, Director of Advising

Rimi Marwah is the Director of Advising for the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. She earned both her B.S. and M.S. from Kansas State University, located in Manhattan, Kansas (AKA the "Little Apple"). She moved to Las Vegas to pursue a career in higher education and has over a decade of experience in academic advising at UNLV. Rimi has a passion for traveling and exploring the world; in her down time, she loves to entertain and be entertained with good food, books and movies.

Vanessa Nunez, Academic Advisor

Vanessa received her bachelor's degree in Sociology from the University of California, San Diego in 2008. Prior to joining the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs Academic Advising team she worked as a GEAR UP Coordinator for UCSD. She plans to pursue a graduate degree from UNLV as part of her plan to further develop herself professionally and academically.

Kamisha Johnson, Academic Advisor

Kamisha is originally from Colorado Springs, CO. She is an alumna of UNLV having earned a B.S. in Secondary Education in 2000, afterwards returning to Colorado Springs where she worked as both a middle and high school social studies teacher. After receiving her M.A. in Counseling in 2007 from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, she worked as a school counselor in Colorado, Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands) and Kuwait. Kamisha relocated back to the Las Vegas area in 2012 where she worked in the Office of Admissions at UNLV and joined the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs in July of 2014.

Esther Herrera, Academic Advisor

Esther Herrera is originally from Chicago, IL but has lived in the Las Vegas area since 2009. She earned her bachelor's degree in Political Science with a minor in Latino/a Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master's degree in Higher Education at UNLV. Esther came from the College of Southern Nevada where she was an advisor/specialist in the counseling department. She has experience in the education field in the areas of 7th grade teaching, admissions, and academic advising. In her spare time, Esther enjoys working out, watching boxing and the Chicago Bears play. She is very happy to be a part of the wonderful College of Urban Affairs advising team!

Janet Hollinger, UNLV Transition Advisor

Janet Hollinger has been in the College of Sciences since 2003, advising there since 2005. She has a bachelor's degree in biology from UNLV, with a concentration in integrative and organismal biology. She is a member of the Rebel Voice commission, part of the Advising Council of UNLV and is in charge of both the high school and middle school components of the Nevada Regional Science Bowl for UNLV. She has a daughter currently attending CSN and UNLV, majoring in biology and has another daughter at Hamline University in Minn., majoring in pre-law.

Christina Zboril, UNLV Transition Advisor

Christina Zboril has been an academic advisor for UNLV since 2009. She has advised for the College of Sciences and the College of Hotel Administration. Christina has a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies from UNLV and a master's of education degree in Educational Leadership, with an emphasis in Higher Education Administration from UNLV.

Kia Vichaikul, UNLV Transition Advisor

Kia Vichaikul has been advising at UNLV since 2006. She attended Minnesota State University Moorhead where she earned a bachelor's degree in sociology in 2002, and a master's degree in counseling and student affairs in 2006. She is active in the advising community at UNLV, having served on the Advising council leadership team and various committees in the past years. Vichaikul is the recipient of the 2013 Regents' Academic Advisor Award. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, trying new foods and walking her dog at the park.

Allison McSwain, Admissions and Financial Aid Counselor

Allison McSwain has been an Admissions and Financial Aid Counselor at UNLV since September 2012. Prior to that, she served as a graduate assistant in UNLV's Academic Success Center, working with first-year students transitioning to college. Hailing from South Carolina, Allison holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from Furman University, a master's in accountancy from Western Carolina University, and a master's of music in trumpet performance from UNLV. She is currently pursuing a DMA in trumpet performance at UNLV.