Karen Nercessian

Karen Nercessian is Associate Vice Provost for Strategy and Implementation and oversees strategic initiatives and priorities and their successful implementation for the Office of the Provost. Karen’s portfolio includes faculty well-being and the faculty life span, supporting the needs of faculty as New York University community members and caregivers, through sustainable, accessible, and equitable programs […]

Shelley Anna, Ph.D.

Shelley Anna became the vice provost for faculty at Carnegie Mellon University on July 1, 2023. In this role, she provides counsel as a senior academic leader overseeing academic policies related to faculty affairs and offering support and resources to faculty and academic administrators across the university. She leads the Office of the Vice Provost […]

Sheila Smith McKoy, PhD

I support faculty and academic leaders on their journeys to transform their careers and the colleges and universities that they serve.  Dr. Sheila Smith McKoy is a transformative higher education leader with over 30 years’ experience in leading change and innovation. Dr. Smith McKoy has served at large private and public universities, small private institutions, Research I universities, […]

Karen Markel, PhD, SPHR, SHRM-SCP 

I support leadership journeys in the transitions – life never goes as planned, and I coach leaders to be nimble and pivot to achieve growth during challenging times.   Using a strengths-based approach, and expertise as a human resource management practitioner and scholar, Karen uses her nearly 25 years of higher education experience to support you […]

Kina S. Mallard, Ph.D.

Developing strong leaders who lead strong institutions. Former University President, Kina S. Mallard, Ph.D. has been leading leaders for over 30 years. She is a skilled coach and consultant, engaging workshop facilitator, and dynamic speaker. She has an extensive background in working with the strengths of leaders and moving them from good to great.   Dr. […]

Renee M. Pearl

Renee is the Associate Vice President of Advancement and Foundation Administration at Western Michigan University. In this role, she directs the operations for University Advancement, including finances, HR and training, along with the operations of the WMU Foundation. Additionally, Renee oversees the implementation of the $550 million Empowering Futures Gift, a historic philanthropic contribution dedicated […]

Autumn Bullard

With over a decade of experience in higher education and operations, Autumn brings a rich background in supporting first-generation students and navigating her own career path. Autumn’s expertise extends to community engagement and self-empowerment, where she equips individuals with self-advocacy and boundary setting skills. Autumn is dedicated to empowering individuals to confidently navigate their professional […]

Alex Juarez

Alex Juarez is currently serving as an HR Learning and Development Partner at Dallas College in Farmers Branch, Texas. She previously served in other human resources support roles at local school districts and city government. Outside of work, Alex volunteers with her local SHRM chapter, enjoys bird watching, card making, reading, and baking desserts.

Laura Mirochna

Laura Mirochna moved to Texas in 2018 to assist TWU Dallas faculty with the transition from Blackboard to Canvas, followed by a transition from face-to-face to online learning. Since June of 2022 she has been a Learning Experience Designer at Dallas College, working with Administrators, Faculty, and Staff to address Professional and Leadership Development needs. […]

Ruth Pionke, MBA 

In her role, Ruth Pionke works with the dean and the school’s leadership team to conduct college assessments, oversee the scholarship program, manage external communications, and lead various initiatives, such as student retention, enrollment, and process improvements. Before this position, Ruth was the senior information officer and director of continuing education for ten years in […]