Staff Biographies by Department
|
STUDENT AFFAIRS
|
DISABILITY SERVICES
|
Student Affairs Staff Biographies
Kevin Finn
Dean of Students
I am a proud graduate of Lawrence Technological University’s MBA program. I received a Bachelor of Science degree from Oakland University. I am a certified career coach and career development facilitator. My professional experience includes working with government-funded employment and training initiatives for expanding companies, displaced workers and the economically disadvantaged. I take great pride in helping people who are struggling with identifying their mission in life.
My passion is in creating and delivering programs and services that provides students with career planning resource materials and employment opportunities to meet the rapidly changing career needs for today’s global job market. I accepted the position of Director of Career Services in 2001, and was promoted to the position of Executive Director of Career Services and International Programs in 2007. My department is committed to helping our visiting students with their visas and paperwork, finding employment and enjoying the wonderful community of Metro Detroit.
Joyce Genat
Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Students, Division of Student Affairs
I graduated from Moser Secretarial School, Chicago, Illinois, and have worked for 38 years as an administrative assistant in Illinois, Washington, D.C., Maryland, Minnesota, Iowa, Ohio and Michigan. I have worked for various dental associations, an engineering firm, a supplier of medical equipment, and various other types of companies, such as the Toledo Jewish Community Center. I have been an active member of the International Association of Administrative Professionals for over 15 years and received my Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) rating in 1994.
I’ve worked in the Office of the Dean of Students, Division of Student Affairs, for over five years and have enjoyed being part of what the Division has accomplished during that time. My love of working in the educational field, in addition to my late husband, Dr. Kevin Wolka, who worked as an adjunct professor in the Civil Engineering Department, brought me to Lawrence Technological University. My job expertise for working at an educational institution includes three years in the Office of Minority Student Affairs at Iowa State University and ten years in the Placement Department at Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts, Southfield.
Dorrie Frontera
Secretary, Office of the Dean of Students
I achieved an Associate’s Degree in Business Management from Davenport University, formerly Detroit College of Business. My previous work experience includes positions as an Administrative Assistant to financial planners, accountants, stock brokers, and insurance brokers.
I joined the Division of Student Affairs in June 2006 and work in the Office of the Dean of Students. As the office secretary, I provide work on the University switchboard, as well as support various departments, which include Career Services and International Programs, and Student Activities.
I am an active member with the International Association of Administrative Professionals, (IAAP), Macomb Chapter. Over the years I have been involved in different committees associated with the association.
Student Activities Staff Biographies
Leslie Wilson
Coordinator, Student Activities
I am a graduate of Georgia State University where I received a BA in Speech. I went on to receive my MA in Student Affairs Administration from Michigan State University; where I worked in various student affairs functional areas; Women’s Resource Center, the Department of Student Life, and the Department of Residence Life. After receiving my BA, I worked in raw material steel sales, but as I reflected on my time in college, I frequently thought of the experiences that occurred outside of the classroom. I went on to work for the Office of Student Life and Leadership at Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA. It was then that I realized that Student Affairs was something I was passionate about. I want students to be exposed to every opportunity college has to offer them.
I joined LTU in the summer of 2005 as the Interim Coordinator of Student Activities and was offered the position full time in the spring of 2006. I am a member of NASPA (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) and NACA (National Association of Campus Activities).
Aside from my love for the college experience, I am a pageant enthusiast. I have been a competitor in the Miss Georgia (Miss America) preliminary system and, currently, am registered and certified as a Miss America Preliminary Judge in Georgia and Michigan.
Eula Muckleroy
Program Coordinator, KCP (King-Chavez-Parks) Initiative
Staff, Multicultural Student Support Services
Staff, Commuter Student Support Services
I attended Oakland Community College for 2.5 years before transferring to Lawrence Technological University. In 2002 I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Power. As a commuter student and to feel a part of campus, I involved myself with the National Society of Black Engineers. Through a student employment position in the Financial Aid office, I found more opportunities to involve myself in social and academic activities on campus.
After graduation, I joined the Office of Student Affairs shortly as the Coordinator of the Detroit Area Pre-College Engineering Program (DAPCEP) here at LTU. For two years I ran this program, as well as helped the organization of another pilot program, Information Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST). In 2004 I was given the opportunity to coordinate another great program on campus, the Students in Technology Achieving Results (S.T.A.R.) program funded by the King-Chavez-Parks Initiative.
I feel Lawrence Technological University offers students a unique educational experience and shows its concern for the well being of its community.
Career Services Staff Biographies
Margaret (Peg) Pierce
Director, Career Services
Jennifer Cunningham
Assistant Director, Career Services
I received my BA in communication (Public Relations/Sports Information) from the University of Toledo, and a M.Ed. in Career & Technology Education (Training & Career Development) from Bowling Green State University. Prior to joining LTU I gained valuable hands-on experience in training and development at Standard Federal Bank, Bowling Green State University, and Penta County Career Center. My experiences include training program development, instructional design/evaluation, career counseling, and student athlete support services.
Presently, as the Assistant Director of Career Services, I coordinate the Co-Op program for the College of Engineering and the Department of Math and Computer Science, as well as provide career guidance and preparation for students’ first professional experiences. I am a member of Midwest Association of Colleges and Employers, Midwest Cooperative Education and Internship Association, and Michigan Council for Internships and Cooperative Education.
Sherrill (Sherri) Kerby
Student Employment Coordinator, Career Services
A double graduate of Oakland University, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1995, and my MBA, with a concentration in Human Resource Management, in 2005. I have a broad base of corporate experience, including Human Resources. My higher education experience includes working as a Graduate Research Assistant for the School of Business, Program Coordinator for the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center, Program Assistant for the Entrepreneurship Institute, and Program Coordinator for the Executive MBA Program, all at Oakland University.
As Student Employment Coordinator for the Office of Career Services, my role is to provide career advising to students and alumni in the areas of resume critiques, interviewing skills, job search techniques, and interest assessment in preparation for internships, co-ops, and professional employment. I support the OCSIP’s Career and Networking events, assist with building relationships with employers, and am working with the OCSIP team and Human Resources to develop a student employment policy and handbook. I coordinate on-campus and work-study student employment, including the Family Literacy program.
I am a strong advocate for education and have logged many volunteer hours in my community supporting both parents and students. I am also a naturalist and environmentalist at heart and head for the great outdoors whenever possible.
Jing Sellers
Clerical Assistant
Career Services and Student Activities
I received my A.S. in Information Technology from Oakland Community College in Auburn Hills, Michigan. After graduation I worked for the Program for Academic Support Services of Oakland Community college at the auburn Hills campus. following this I entered the banking profession where I remained for several years winning several awards for customer service. I left the working world for a few years but I returned in the fall of 2007 as a clerical assistant in the Office of Career Services and International Programs at LTU.
Being a native of China, I bring a very unique skill set and perspective to my role as an employee in the Office of Career Services and International Programs. I have been through many of the same experiences in having come to this country. I feel that I fulfill a very valuable and necessary role for our students from foreign countries who are beginning the LTU experience.
International Programs Staff Biographies
Cyndi McMichael
Director, International Programs
I received my Master of Education degree (M.Ed) in Higher Education from the University of Toledo. My graduate degree was preceded by a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Communications. I joined the Lawrence Tech family in 2005 and I enjoy my work immensely. I am currently the Director of International Programs, which provides me with the unique opportunity to welcome students from abroad to our community.
I am responsible for the administration and management of the Office of International Programs. As the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) for the university, I am responsible for resolving student compliance issues with Homeland Security and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). My office advises international F-1 and J-1 students on government regulations, status maintenance, and work authorization.
I provide guidance and structure for a range of student support services offered by International Programs, which includes a comprehensive orientation program and presentation of workshops covering a myriad of topics. I am also responsible for updating faculty, staff, and students on government regulations and issues impacting international students studying in America.
Prior to coming to Lawrence Tech, I worked for the Provost Office at University of Toledo where I completed extensive work to support the university in preparation for their North Central Association (NCA) accreditation visit. I am currently a member of several professional organizations, including the National Association of Foreign Student Advisors (NAFSA), The Michigan Association of International Educators (MAIE), and the Michigan College Personnel Association (MCPA). I am also a member of Pi Lambda Theta, an international honor society and professional association in education.
I believe that a vibrant international academic community enriches the Lawrence Tech campus and is paramount to a better understanding of the global world we live in. Students are at the center of my work, so whether you’re are a new international student or the U.S. has been your home for years, I am happy to help! I am pleased to be a part of the warm, diverse, and collegial environment at Lawrence Tech. I look forward to meeting you soon, so stop by and say hello anytime!
Laura Affer
International Student Advisor, International Programs
I received my Bachelor of Arts in English from John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio. After graduation, I worked in customer service before joining the staff of the President’s Office at LTU in July 1998. In January 2000, I began working as the Housing Coordinator in the Office of University Housing. I applied for the position in University Housing so that I could work more closely with students and help develop the Community Leader program at LTU, which had only begun the previous semester. I worked in University Housing for 5 ½ years, during which time I enjoyed seeing the positive changes in the Residence Life Program and developed close relationships with my residents and student staff.
In August 2006, I began working in my current position. I am learning a great deal from LTU’s international students, and I hope they are learning from me, as well. The Office of Career Services and International Programs is at the start of a new era of development and growth, just as University Housing was when I started. I am looking forward to once again being a part of developing a program that is such an integral part of our campus community.
Clinical Counseling Staff Biographies
Jeffrey Betman Ph.D.
Psychologist, Clinical Counseling Services
I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University and completed a post-doctoral program at McLean Hospital in Belmont, MA. I continued on staff at McLean Hospital, then was a staff psychologist at Dean Medical Center in Madison, WI. I have over 20 years of experience providing mental health services and am currently publishing a book aimed at middle school readers.
Currently, I work as one of two part-time psychologists here on campus and also have my own private practice in Farmington Hills, MI.
Lusine Hambardzumyan, M.S., MA., LLP
Clinical Counselor, Clinical Counseling Services
I received my M.S/ B.S. in Psychology from Yerevan State University, with postgraduate training and specialization in Medical Psychology and M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy. I successfully completed the three stage advance PTSD training “Helping Children in Distress,” organized by UNICEF (September 1995, October 1996 and October 1997). I have previous clinical, teaching, and research experience working at Yerevan State University in the department of Psychology, and at Yerevan State Medical University in the department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology. I have published 13 professional articles in Armenia, Russia and Switzerland. One of the articles was presented at the Sixth European Congress of Psychology (Italy, July 1999).
Currently, I hold positions as the Counseling Psychologist in Counseling and Support Services at University of Michigan (Dearborn) and I am also a part-time Clinical Counselor here at LTU. I use my clinical experience and knowledge to provide mental health professional services to students who experience different emotional, personal, developmental and cultural issues and problems. When working with students, I help them develop and implement effective coping skills and strategies to have healthy and meaningful personal growth.
Dining Services Staff Biographies
Brent Bishop
Director, Dining Services
The year was 1984; I was bussing tables for a national Mexican restaurant chain, when I began my fascination with food service. I’ve spent time working at the illustrious Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth, MI, as well as having worked for the CA Muer Corporation in Ann Arbor at the Gandy Dancer restaurant. I later spent two years working at the University of Michigan, managing the exclusive members only University Club Restaurant. These experiences in fine dining have definitely helped me to shape and guide my career in food services.
I have been employed with Taher, Inc., at LTU since August 2000. I have certification from the National Restaurant Association in ServSafe and certification as a Food Service Management Professional. I have also been certified by the State of Michigan in Food Service Management and Techniques in Alcohol Management. Currently, when I’m not working or tinkering with my classic cars, I am working toward my Bachelor of Science in Hotel & Restaurant Management at Eastern Michigan University.
Antonio Moore
Executive Chef, Dining Services
Having always known that cooking was my destiny, I began my culinary journey at the tender age of 13. I hold a Certified Culinary Professional designation awarded by the Culinary Arts Studio of Michigan. I am also a ServSafe certified chef through the Michigan Restaurant Association.
Known as the “Conscious Chef” I use an improvisational approach to creative cooking with a heavy accent on flavor and simplicity. In thirteen years of working in food service I have held Executive Chef Responsibilities at four of Michigan’s top dining spots.
I have been employed at TAHER for a little over a year. With my vast experience in culinary excellence, I have helped to turn Lawrence Technological University’s dining service from a mediocre experience to an exceptional dining affair.
In addition to my Executive Chef duties here on campus, I can also be seen whipping up some of my delicious recipes on the Just Ask Talk Show, a local cable show seen here in the Detroit area. I am adept at creating masterpieces with everyday ingredients found in most kitchens. “Cooking with a Conscience” became my motto when I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 1999, but also a testament to a life changing decision to eat smart and live smart.
Disability Services Staff Biographies
Katherine Charbeneau
Specialist, Student Affairs
Sports and Recreation Staff Biographies
Alan McLaughlin
Director, Student Recreation
I received both my BS and MS degrees at Eastern Michigan University, and wanted to become a teacher and coach in the K-12 public schools. After a brief career in minor league baseball after graduation, I began teaching professionally. I later had the opportunity to work for the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit and served as a physical director and fitness specialist for eight years. I joined the Lawrence Tech family in 1989. Since that time, it has been a very rewarding experience working with the students, faculty and staff of this great university. My hobbies include a passion for sailing, squash and experiencing the great outdoors.
As the Director of Student Recreation, I am the manager of the Don Ridler Field House and responsible for the overall campus recreation program, which includes fitness, intramurals, club sports and special events. I am also the advisor to the Inter Fraternal Greek Council, which oversees the six fraternities and four sororities. It has been my pleasure to serve as the Director for the past 18 years. Likewise, the entire Tech Rec Student Recreation staff is excited to offer numerous opportunities for students to become involved, have fun, stay healthy and enrich their LTU campus-life experience.
Scott Trudeau
Assistant Director, Student Recreation
I am a proud graduate of Central Michigan University, “Fire up Chips.” I completed my undergraduate work in Sports Studies, Business Administration, and Coaching, followed by a graduate degree in Sports Administration. Sports have always been a very big part of my life. I have played everything and anything. While in College I participated in intramural sports, as well as a barrage of other sports activities, including flag football, basketball, softball, floor hockey, and golf. I was lucky enough to have participated in three national tournaments in flag football and one in basketball, while attending college. I still play in leagues for basketball, softball, and golf when I’m not enjoying time fishing or relaxing on the lake.
I joined the staff of Lawrence Tech in January 2002 as the Assistant Director of Student Recreation. My responsibility is to oversee all intramural, extramural, club sports, fitness, facility, and management of the Student Recreation Department. Prior to joining LTU, I worked in Sports Marketing and Advertising as an Assistant Manager. I also spent some time as a substitute teacher for junior high school students. I received two honored awards while working at LTU, Staff Member of the Month and the Marburger Administrator of the Year. Through hard work, a great attitude, and great colleagues, I hope to keep improving Student Recreation at Lawrence Tech for years to come
Athletics, fitness, and recreation are a great way to interact with fellow students. The experience I gained from getting involved outside the class is why I enjoy working in the field. I want everyone to experience the most of college life while getting a great education. Students will remember things they did outside of the classroom and the people they interacted with more than the tests they took during college.
University Housing Staff Biographies
Janielle (Ostrowski) Tchakerian
Director of Residence Life, University Housing
I received a Master of Arts from the University of Toledo in 1999, which was preceded by a Bachelor of Science in 1997 at Aquinas College. I have worked at Western Illinois University as a Complex Director and at Binghamton University in New York as a Residence Hall Director prior to coming to Lawrence Tech. I currently am serving in my fourth year as the State of Michigan Delegate to GLACUHO (Great Lakes Association of College and University Housing Officers).
As the Director of Residence Life here at LTU, for almost four years, my goal is to support and provide safe, community-focused residence halls that allow enhanced student learning beyond the classroom walls. When students choose to live in the residence halls, they learn how to live with people who differ from themselves and celebrate their differences, have increased opportunities for student leadership, and learn a sense of community responsibility and respect of others.
Tamara Braswell
Secretary, University Housing
I graduated from Cass Technological High School in Detroit, MI, and went on to complete an Associate’s in Accounting at the Detroit College of Business (Davenport University).
I have over 14 years experience as an administrative assistant, working for such companies as the Internal Revenue Service and General Motors.
I enjoy working in the Office of University Housing. No two days are ever the same!
It is my desire to impact students by assisting in providing an environment in University Housing that helps students gain the “true college experience.”
Tanisha McIntosh
Residence Hall Coordinator-South,
University Housing
I graduated from Siena Heights University with a B.A. in English- Creative Writing. I received a M.A. in English- Written Communications from Eastern Michigan University, where I was an Assistant Hall Director in the First Year Center. I began working at LTU July 2006 as the Residence Hall Coordinator. I enjoy the relationships I have built with the residents while impacting and motivating their college experience.
Kim Osantowski
Residence Hall Coordinator-North,
University Housing
I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with my B.A. in History and Women's Studies. After graduation I realized my passion was working with students and became the Graduate Resident Director for the First Year Experience Residence Hall at UDM. After a short time I became the Interim Resident Director. I am excited to work at LTU and hope to get the students involved because I want every student to get the most out of their college experience.