Table of Contents Message From The Golden Eagle Committee The Importance of Recognition & Achievement
Messages From Leadership
Pete’s Rap-Up of the Year Meg’s Message of Thanks RELT’s Reflection on the “Unprecedented” A “RAD”icle Look at the Year
Meet the Characters of University Housing
Watson Commons Staff The Residence Education Leadership Team (RELT) Central Graduate Assistants Resident Directors & Graduate Resident Directors Desk & Admin Staff
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Hall Pride Pages Centennial Place Southern Courtyard Eagle Village Southern Pines Freedom’s Landing University Villas Watson Hall
Awards & Recognition
Introducing the Golden Feather Awards Presentation of the Golden Feather Leadership Pins Announcing the Winners of the 2020 Golden Eagle Awards
Recognition of Our Graduating Staff Members Words of Wisdom From Our Graduating Staff Graduating Staff Member Profiles Messages to Our Graduating Staff
Staff Signatures, Messages, Pictures, & More Moments of Pride COPYRIGHT © 2020 GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY All rights reserved. This publication was built purely to recognize staff members of the 2019-2020 academic year and celebrate their accomplishments. Portions of this publication may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express permission of the authors. IMAGE DISCLAIMER University logos are licensed images of Georgia Southern University. All other images appearing in this publication may be copyrighted material used without the express permission of the copyright owner. These images are being used in a way that constitutes “fair use” (see section Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107) for internal, educational purposes. Georgia Southern University, University Housing, and the 2020 Golden Eagles Yearbook authors will not be held personally responsible, nor liable for any damages, actual or consequential, for any misuse by third parties.
Welcome to Your
2020 GOLDEN
A Special Message From the Golden Eagle Awards Committee: This year has been unique for sure. But through any challenges or setbacks, the department has been intentional about prioritizing celebration and recognition. We recognize how important the work we do is to our residents, to the development of our staff, and to our university, while acknowledging that it isn’t always the easiest work. We all wear multiple hats, we work long hours, we work WEIRD hours, and we are expected to adjust to crisis mode in a blink of an eye. Because of this, it is that much more important for us to create a stress free zone, send birthday cards, acknowledge the achievements of our staff, and celebrate the impact of the programs we offer. The Recognition Committee would like to thank each of our staff and campus partners for their work and dedication this year. THANK YOU for all that you’ve done and congratulations on all of your accomplishments this year! Sincerely, Erin, Claudine, Verva Jean, Frederick, Imani, Megan, & Sapheria
EAGLE YEARBOOK Want to see how your favorite Disney characters are dealing with the quarantine?
Introducing Your 2020 Golden Eagles Committee
Check out the videos below & sing along!
Administrative Staff
You know you want to!
Disney Quarantined Characters - Video 1 Disney Quarantined Characters - Video 2
Megan Carlisle
Arianna Fournier & Frederick Smith Resident Advisors
Erin McFerrin
Assistant Director
Claudine McKinney & Verva Jean Shumate Resident Directors
Sapheria Samuels & Imani Uzzell Graduate Staff
AROUND HERE we don’t look backwards for very long.
WE KEEP MOVING FORWARD, opening up new doors and doing new things,
BECAUSE WE’RE CURIOUS and
curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.
Messages From University Housing Leadership
Pete’s ‘RAP’-Up of the Year Yup. Your Executive Director actually raps for you. Enjoy!
In true Blutreich style, no Golden Eagle celebration would be complete without the comedy stylings of our very own Executive Director Peter Blutreich. So without further ado, please enjoy “Pete’s Sad Little Diddy” by clicking the MickeyLink below.
As so many of you know I take long drives on the road Listening to news music maybe a little flow So with that in mind here we go I have pondered how to begin Did we lose or win A year marked with storms Little to go off on as norms Some of things we done were great How could we known our fate To face so many obstacles this year Many of which had to with fear Loss, cost, programs, and decisions So many made without precision Sad, happy, hot, cold, no matter the season Why? Yo, We don’t know the reason I grew up in a time of Michael Jackson Thriller I think I get more wisdom from Mac Miller You all have been great Without you I question our fate To have gotten through , all of things we do, no way without you Our ups downs, acting like clowns, hall games, about fame, we aint lame So as you reflect on the position I hope you don’t regret your decision To serve in the role of leader Much more than a hall greeter A guide at times in the midst of sadness A calm influence dealin with madness I grew up in a time of Michael Jackson Thriller But lately I get more wisdom from Mac Miller So I hope you stuck around to listen to this flow Graduates Oh the places you will go Jobs, school a future in question But go forward head up - flexin Because you are made of tough stuff Gone through times that have been rough I hope you look back and bob your head Cause You did not follow, you bleepn lead I grew up in a time of Michael Jackson Thriller But lately I get more wisdom from Mac Miller So maybe as I try this its all crap But I bet you didn’t expect a rap More of a poem words rymin At least this old guy keeps tryn So as eagles climb in the sky, let out your war cry there is only do not try Thank you for all you have done, we had a good run, with the hope you had some fun For those returning, our heads are twirling, you and we be bold , face what the future hold And Remember I grew up in a time of Michael Jackson Thriller But lately I get more wisdom from Mac Miller
Thank you for all you do Thank you for being you
Meg’s Message of Thanks Hello, Housing Family! Wow – what a year this has been! I was hopeful in selecting Disney as our theme for training this year that it would be the happiest year on earth! While we hit some major bumps along the way such as losing a loved one, planning for a hurricane that didn’t hit, and navigating this international pandemic…there have been numerous shining moments this past year. Our residents have felt supported and connected across campus thanks to all you have done. You referred students to campus resources over 4,000 times. You’ve identified students of concern and actively followed up with them to ensure their needs are met. You hosted meaningful events where students have been challenged and have grown. You’ve banded together to support your peers in a time of crisis, and come out even stronger than before. You’ve gained new experiences and new friends. And most importantly, you have made the most of your time with us and grown immensely throughout the year. I want to thank you for all you did for our students and our department this year. I sincerely mean it when I say we could not survive without staff and student leaders who are dedicated to making a difference in the life of others. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you, thank you, thank you. For those who are graduating or not returning to staff, we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors. Don’t hesitate to reach out, and let us know what you’ve been up to. While you are gone, you are not forgotten. For those who are returning to staff next year, I look forward to seeing you in the fall!
The more you are in a state of gratitude,
THE MORE YOU WILL Attract things to be grateful for.
RELT’s
Reflection on Our “Unprecedented” Year
Res. Ed. Family, When you’ve worked in housing, student affairs, or higher education as long as most of the RELT Team Members, you rarely come across things that surprise you or give you pause. However, this past year has humbled us to a point beyond explanation. We have had to adapt, learn, flex, and change along with everyone else in order to simply make it through this year. Many of us have been shaken to our cores and challenged in those “once-in-a-lifetime” fashions, leaving us hoping that this year will be a one-of-a-kind, never-to-be-repeated event. But with every challenge, there are silver linings. For RELT that has been our staff. Regardless of title, status, background, or other differences - our team has come together in inspirational ways. We have been there for each other with supportive words, listening ears, strong shoulders, kind actions, smiles, tears, antibacterial spray, or whatever else was needed at the time.
For us, who have titles of leadership, this sense of team has helped to keep us going, renew our faith for the work we do, and to show us that we all still have ways in which we can grow and learn. To say that we are ready for this year to be over probably goes without saying. As each academic year ends, we strive to celebrate our time together through end of year celebrations and recognition efforts. The events of this year have been so impactful, even on how we transition to a new year. There was so much potential left untouched and unrealized, that it hurts to think those opportunities we’ve lost. But despite these challenges, we hope that in time we will look back fondly on memories of growth and community. We hope, with all our hearts, that there were moments of wonderful, glorifying, unforgettable happiness, camaraderie, achievement, closeness, vulnerability, and so much more that will shape your lives in the best of ways. As your leadership team, we are so thankful for all of you. Whether you are returning, graduating, or moving onto different paths, we hope the absolute best for you in whatever path you are following. We know times of challenge will come again, and we hope that you’ll use the lessons learned this year to just keep swimming :) Sincerely, Meg, Ben, Casey, Nicole, & Erin
A “RAD�icle Look at the Year I believe that this school year was overall amazing and was a lot of fun. Being an adjunct member in Resident Advisor Delegation meant finding the issues within your staff while also recognizing the awesome work and people within the staff. Being a Resident Advisor Delegation executive board member meant taking those concerns and issues and pushing for changes that will benefit all Resident Advisor within housing on the statesboro campus. The adjunct and executive board members are all amazing and outstanding leaders that made this year delegation one to remember. I wish the best for next year adjunct and executive board members and know you all will do great. Thanks for the memories, Your RAD President, Frederick Smith.
Thank you to our 2019-2020 Resident Advisor Delegation (RAD) Members! EXECUTIVE BOARD
Frederick Smith, President Ainsley Stephens, Vice President of Administration Chace Scarboro, Vice President of Leadership and Advocacy Jordan Moses, Vice President of Programming Aaron Wechsler, Partnership Representative and Recognition
ADJUNCT MEMBERS
Charlotte Roberts, Alana Hall, Will O'Riley, Alexis Melchor, Leah Reiser, Zach Weiner, Moji Dada, Alison Harris, & Sarah Daniels
ADVISORS
Kenzel Hill & Ben Wicker
Meet the Characters of University Housing
Meet the Characters of University Housing Watson Commons Staff Supporting our staff in the halls are our central staff in Watson Commons. They help keep ďŹ nances in order, assist with student assignments, process conduct, and more. Without them we would not be able to do all the things we do for our residents and staff without them. So to all of our central staff members, THANK YOU SO MUCH for all that you do for us! Pete Blutreich, Executive Director Ryan Heins, Director of Business & Administration Lee Elbracht, Sr. Administrative Assistant John Burling, Business Affairs Manager Hal McCool, Assistant Director of Occupancy Charlene Spence, Assignments Clerk Patrick Robinson, Assignments Clerk Dawn Sonon, Administrative Assistant Carrie Bryant, Administrative Assistant Bradley Hires, Information Technology Assistant
Residence Education Leadership Team (AKA RELT) While each RELT member may have a different roles and responsibilities, together they do enough to ďŹ ll up this whole yearbook and then some. From forming and maintaining campus partnerships, adjudicating conduct, setting the curriculum, working with facilities, organizing staff recruitment, selection, and training to creating welcome gifts, cleaning out new staff ofďŹ ces, and helping new staff move into their new homes. . . This group DOES IT ALL.
Meg Heins, Director
Erin McFerrin, Assistant Director
Ben Wicker, Associate Director
Casey Weaver, Assistant Director
Nicole Faison, Assistant Director
On top of all of that they do, one of the best aspects of our RELT team is their focus on creating a family-based environment for our staff and students. This desire stems from the dedication our RELT team has to their own personal families. Not only are the following staff vital members of our team, but their spouses, children, and pets are too! Without their support, the RELT team wouldn’t be able to support our staff they way they do.
Central Graduate Assistants You may not see them often, but helping to process petty cash, organize the RLC Peer Mentor program, facilitating programs and recognition events, and helping us to assess our programs and services are the central Graduate Assistant Team. Grads, thank you so much for your help this year!! Carlene Robinson Ariel Alston Imani Uzzell
Resident Directors & Graduate Resident Directors Leading our hall staff is our amazing Resident Director (RD) and Graduate Resident Director (GRD) Team. Not only do these staff support our residents and staff members, they also address crisis, adjudicate conduct, facilitate programs, and know their buildings inside and out! Special shout out and thank you to these staff for all of their hard work during the year!
Centennial Place Natasha Gabara, RD Emily Maggio, RD Sapheria Samuels, GRD Abby Meert, GRD
Eagle Village
Kenzel Hill, RD Miranda Garske, GRD
Freedom’s Landing
Kimberly Bradley, RD Claudine McKinney, RD
Southern Courtyard & Watson Hall Colton Goodman, RD
Southern Pines
Verva Jean Shumate, RD Kaitlyn Aaron, GRD
University Villas
David Ndozi, GRD
Desk Assistants, Sr Desk Assistants, & RD Admin Staff Harry Gordon Selfridge said that the customer is always right. That can be a hard sentiment to maintain in the face of a resident who is complaining about a lost key being charged to their account. But through it all The Desk Assistant staff keeps their patience, grace, and trust that we strive to provide customer service, a positive experience for residents, and keep the lights on across our residence halls. You all truly make our halls a home in being there for our residents and providing support for our professional staff. Thank you for all that you do. Sincerely, Casey Weaver & Kenzel Hill
2019-2020 Moments of Pride For the most part, all desks were staffed and fully open for the whole year! No keys were lost this year! The RD Admins made $30,000 worth of purchases for the department and didn’t lose any receipts! The DA COVID Response Team kicked some major butt and helped the department A TON in a time of crisis!
RD Admins
Dorian Bloodworth, Madison Davis, Alyssa Watrous, Myla Kelly, Asia Watson, & Samantha Wingate
Desk Coordinator
Lizaida Perez-Collazo
Senior Desk Assistants
Milan Berry, Terrie Bradley, Aaron Cummings
Desk Assistants Fernanda Camacho Hauser, Ozioma Chigbu, Micah Edmondson, Nayjha Harris, Victoria Harris, Carissa Ingram, Timilehin Jegede, Abby Joyner, Sarah LaVally, Chevelle Russell - Merchant, Kiera Stripling, Leilani Taylor-Thompson. Miyah Washington, Caroline Watson, Kendall Willis, Kyndall Woods, Aiyana Demmons, Tyler Hicks, KaTerra Johnson, Donzell Tull, Sarah Johnson, Da'najah Atterberry, Kyra Chaney, Skyler Collins, Sidney Corwin, Kiera Davis, Pertannica Dawson, Gabriele De Figueiredo, Iliassou Diallo, Brooke Eure, Michael Folk, Madeleine Frick, Chiamaka Ibezim, Kenley Lamb, Charlotte Makelt, Aminatta Mbow, Gabriella Mendez, Sky Nowden, Brigid O’Connor, Gabrielle Pierre, Taylor Reedy, Tynika Smallwood, Jessica Stevens, Randall Talarek, Samantha Taliercio, Kyla Thomas, Onyekachi Ugonna, Ashlee Wilkes, Eman Woods, Brooke Worley, & Emily Zanieski
Hall Pride Pages
Centennial Place
PLAY VIDEO
Dear Centennial Place Staff, We miss you all dearly and wish we could have finished out the semester with you. It has not been the same without you here with us! As we approach the end of the semester, we want to highlight the time we spent together as well as all that you have accomplished in the past year- this yearbook will serve as one of the places for those memories (besides your heart, of course). From kicking off the school year with the Cen�10�ial Place Birthday Bash to ending it with an emergency closing, you all have grown tremendously and the difficult and have grown tremendously as a result. We are so grateful for your contributions to the CP and Georgia Southern Community. So, here are our final kudos to you! -Abby, Emily, Natasha, & Sapheria
Centennial Place Team Resident Director Emily Maggio Natasha Gabart
Graduate Resident Director Abby Meert Sapheria Samuels
Resident Advisors Aahira Robinson Aaron Wechsler Alana Hall Albani Berryhill Alex Shearer Alexis Hampton Chloe Molnar Christian Marrero Ebonia Bly Frederick Smith Hope Gorman Imani Hence Jack Steinagel Jacob Crawford John Frady Jordan Keffer Jordan Miller Kemi Sipeolu Kristy Daniels Maddy McGrath Madison Barnes Mallori Johnson Manuel Abadie Marcelo Zuniga Duron Megan Tanner Niesha Bell Rachel Stackhouse Sharon Kanchik Taraya Bratton Wes Strong
You’re Doing Great!: (top left): Fluffy was great for recognizing amazing team members! Cookin up Community: (left): RA Manuel teaches residents how to make Baleadas from Honduras! National Peace Day: (above): Student Leader Adjunct celebrate National Peace Day Happy Holidays: (below): One of many great photos taken for CP’s annual holiday card
Kudos
Eagle Village
PLAY VIDEO
Dear EV RA’s, We Have been through so much as a staff and with that we want to thank you all for the wonderful work you did this year! We truly appreciate each and every one of you. Throughout this year, you all have put together spectacular programs for your residents and even collaborated as a staff to host the annual Block Party in the freezing cold and the wildly successful EV Kickback where we had over 50 residents in attendance.
Eagle Village Team
Your hard work and dedication to Eagle Village and our residents did not go unnoticed. We certainly couldn’t have asked for a more passionate dedicated, and energetic staff. Thank you all very much!
Resident Advisors Karen Raymond Harvey Lee Moody Ranika Williams RJ Scott Nelly Wolf Will Hodges Leah Reiser Lava Brown Abi Gordon Maria Gonzalez Claudia Hopper Jordon Moses Taitana Joseph-Saunders Mauro Morales Alexis Melchor Brandy McDonald-Johnson Camille Phillips Brandon Long Chanel Leiva Erin Walker
WHO YOU WIT?!?!?! ~Kenzel & Miranda~
“Your identity is your most valuable possession. Protect it.”
Resident Director Kenzel Hill Graduate Resident Director Miranda Garske
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Freedom’s Landing
PLAY VIDEO
"Nothing great comes from EASY!"
Hey Freedom’s Landing, what’s poppin’?!? We hope this letter finds you well and in good spirits. Things are not the same here without you. In thinking about the best way to approach this letter, we can’t help but recall moments with each of you that really impacted this year, put a smile on our faces, or just really sum up this year… The remiss without highlighting some of our favorite achievements from this year. To begin, although the intramural season was suddenly cancelled, Freedom’s Landing was in the lead for the Housing Cup thereby we are declaring ourselves as the third annual Housing Cup winner. Secondly, we had over 200 participants in our inaugural Haunted House and National Domestic Violence Awareness Silent Graveyard. And finally, the seamless coexistence of having first-year and upper-class students and your ability to aid one another in serving students! Amazing! We couldn’t have done any of this stuff without each and every one you. This year, in all of its glory, did present us with challenges - but remember, “nothing great comes from easy” (Big Hero 6). To our seniors who have worked for University Housing and dedicated their time as students to simultaneously serve students, congratulations and thank you! You have all impacted our lives, our careers, and our time at Georgia Southern in unique ways! We will miss each and every one of you and hope that you stay in touch! As always, Hail Southern and Go Blue!
Freedom’s Landing Team Resident Director Claudine McKinney Kimberly Bradley RD Admin Alyssa Watrous Resident Advisors Alexa Blanding Sarah Daniels Kacey Smith Izzy Harbuck Simone Stephens Ciara Perez Josh Gordon Sam Watson Kate Hughes Millenia Daniels Eli Miller Trey Rhone Chelsea Riley Markenzia Webb Kayla Hickmon Kym’Bria Green Bodie Fox Iyanna Dandrea Josh Hughley
Eli - Kelce is missing her best friend (I guess you and Millenia will have to fight over this one).
Sarah - Maybe one day, you’ll have a 1:1 that isn’t interrupted by University Police
Trey - Claudine all-but forcing you to watch The Masked Singer. Also, when is the next Burning Swamp, Trey? Will Bodie be there?
Kacey - 1:1’s that Claudine doesn’t interrupt by saying “Hi! It’s me, I am interrupting again!”
Chelsea - You still haunt Kimberly and Claudine’s dreams with your purge mask. Markenzia - Our wish to you is a duty night that doesn’t involve a check-out Kayla - You can rest easy knowing your residents aren’t disputing in the GroupMe between floors. Kym’Bria - A small reminder that you probably saved a life more than once this year
Izzy - You won’t have to hear Kimberly say, “keep trying!” (to reach your residents) Simone - a question that you asked that actually had an answer, other than “Oh! Good question! We will figure that out when we get to it! Ciara - OoOoO, the Bachelor - of course! Josh G. - We’ll miss hearing about your love of fake plants.
Sam - How did you legit have 90% female Bodie - You can plan all of the hot dog eating residents?! Maybe next year you’ll get to pick your contests you want, as long as you stop by Kimberly adjunct! Thanks for rolling with the punches! and Claudine’s office to say “Hey!” before. Kate - Don’t worry, Claudine’s understanding of Iyanna - You’ll always be Miss Black GSU to us! cosplay is forever impacted by your Instagram; also, just take a break because Building 8 tried to Josh H. - We’ll never enter another staff meeting ruin you. without starting it with “what’s poppin!?” Millenia - we can’t even look at banana laffy-taffy Alexa - Just one day where you don’t have to ask the same… don’t even get us started on crocs… the question, “Well, what about Lakeview?”
I fail to see how you fail to see THAT THIS IS AWESOME!
Happy Halloween: (top): Freedom’s Landing hosts an Inaugural Haunted House and has over 200 participants Happy Holidays: (above) Freedom’s Landing took a staff picture to share with residents and staff for the holidays Finals Encouragement: (right): FL staff with their beautiful chalk encouragement.
Southern Courtyard
"Dreams are for rookies." PLAY VIDEO
Court Court! What a year it has been! As this year has come to an end, sooner than we had anticipated, this year has brought us some amazing moments. Both myself and all of you were given the information that I would be moving to Southern Courtyard in a short amount of time before fall training began. I can’t express enough how truly grateful I am of how welcoming you had been. We all shared so many laughs, worked through some hard times, and in all of these moments, were there or each other. This year has been truly an extraordinary experience. I cannot thank each one of you enough for your understanding, honesty, humor, care, and compassion shown throughout the entire year. Thank you all so much for an absolutely amazing year!
-Colton
Southern Pines Team Resident Director Colton Goodman RD Admin Samantha (Sam) Wingate Resident Advisors Noah Caracelo LoQuasha (Lo) Roach Diana Moran-Palomar Daryl Rounds Jr Eilleen Plante Mojisola (Moji) Dada Zachary Weiner Jarai (Rai) Finney Rayne Gaston Marta Edward Haley Johnson Gloriyah (Glo) Caleb
“For a true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart.”
Noah - Most Likely to Find the Loophole Ever since I’ve known you, when it comes to knowing your stuff, you always know enough to find the loophole or technicality, especially with your presentation given at Courtyard!
Lo - Miss Congeniality No matter what was happening with yourself, the team, the institution, orj the world, you had nothing but compassion and beautiful things to say about everyone in the room. You have a kind and caring soul that is always there to listen and comfort.
Diana - Courtyard Counselor I feel that with all the conversations you’ve had with your residents, you don’t even try and they’ll tell you their life story! I don’t think that will change in the upcoming year either. You have always had an energy that says, “you can open up to me.”
Daryl - Most Likely to be the Next TikTok Celebrity I can see and so does the staff how much you love TikTok and even teaching the team some dances!
Eilleen Most Likely to Become the Next Coco Chanel Eilleen, you have such a passion for your industry and as we’ve talked, I know you see a different light on what it means to be in fashion and how it can change the world. I chose this designer because of the fact that for her time, she changed the industry as I know you will.
Glo - Most likely to Glow! Everytime you step into a room, you have an energy about you that fills the room and the people in it with positivity. I know it’s not just myself and the RAs but the residents as well who see it!
Moji -Most Likely to Find the Cure for Cancer Moji, you have never let up on your studies but have always seen the true value in demonstrating care for others both inside and out of the classroom. You are going to make waves in the future of medicine.
Weiner - Most likely to Win by Logic As long as I have known you, logic has always been on your side. Even when there has been a plan set in place, using your reasoning can change my plans upside down, in a good way!
Rai - Most likely to Schedule Everything Not only do I commend this, but I wish I was as diligent with it! Everytime we meet, the calendar you have with you is almost like your child. You make sure it is up to date with anything and everything, and ready for any obstacles.
Rayne - Most likely to Laugh Cry Anywhere One thing I love most about you is that you can find humor everywhere, even in the most unlikely place. I have enjoyed your humor and laughter even when it is unexpected!
Marta - Mr. Sunshine Marta, I have never met anyone that keeps a positive outlook as much as you do. Even in the hardest of times both in the RA role and personal, you always look for a brightside. I commend and appreciate your ability to find the light even in the darkest of times.
Haley - Most likely to be a Survivor In all the years I have known you, you have never given up on anything. Even when situations are hard and anger could set in, you talk through it and never give up.
“I’m a damsel, I’m in distress, I can handle this. Have a nice day.”
Southern Pines
PLAY VIDEO
Southern Pines, This has been a crazy year full of so many highs and lows, but the support, care, and love you bring to our community has really gotten our team through it all. While we were not able to end our year how we had imagined, there is still so much to be proud of. Whether you hosted successful traditional programs, designed unique bulletin boards, or simply made a new friend from this experience, I am confident that each of you has gained something positive. I am grateful for our time together, and for the compassion, humor, and light that you have brought into my life over the past year. I am confident that you will excel in whatever you choose to do in life, and know that each of you has a bright future ahead of you. Thank you for making my time at Georgia Southern so enjoyable and for challenging me to be a better leader, supervisor, and person. You truly have made this year unforgettable! Kaitlyn Pines Family, This year has left a lasting impact on my life. I never could have imagined a more eventful but full year. I got to witness all the incredible dedication and passion that you showed each resident in Southern Pines. I am so incredibly grateful for the real intentional conversations that we shared. Your ability to brainstorm new ideas or initiatives to try something new even if there was hesitation. I appreciate all the strategies and creativity that was shown to make Pines home for so many people including me. I am so excited to see where each one of you goes and the incredible and impactful things that you will do. I will forever be grateful for each moment and memory that I was able to share with you. Each time that we cried together to get through the challenges, each awkward moment, and most of all the laughter that was shared amongst this family. Thank you for making me a better professional and learn how to advocate so strongly for a group of people. Thank you for challenging me to always see the bigger pictures and help shape your experience to be everything you wanted and more. Thank you for giving me a chance to be apart of the Southern Pines story. As I always say, I’m feeling Pine in Pines and know that each of you will go to make the most of your experience and take on each adventure with a sense of joy and enthusiasm. Thank you for always being your authentic and wonderful self! Verva Jean
Southern Pines Team Resident Director Verva Jean Shumate Graduate Resident Director Kaitlyn Aaron RD Admin Alyssa Watrous Resident Advisors Axe Marsha Bolu Agboola Will O’Reilly Chace Scarboro Peggy Abraku Sadie Joiner Paden McTier Nou Yang Ben Cosby Caleb Shealy Chanz Wallace Chris White Santi Campo Ainsley Stephens Lee Bridges
Life is Sweet: (left): Verva Jean finally allowed one opportunity to use the chocolate fountain to celebrate that Life is Sweet for the upcoming wedding of Kaitlyn and Kyle
Lip Sync Champions: (Right): Full staff participation at the Lip Sync Battle to win rocking out the Year 3000 by the Jonas Brothers
Uniquely You: (Right): The Southern Pines family took an authentic photoshoot in August to showcase their unique self as an incentive to that there are more ways to connect with each RA in Pines beyond just being a RA. The passive campaign was showcased in the clubhouse to display all the unique characteristics of the Southern Pines family
Pines Pet: (up): The Adoption of Opal the Opossum
Where do I start from???... First, I appreciate you all for trusting and working with me this school year, especially rolling with the adjustments from day one. I definitely enjoyed being your supervisor and watching each of you grow had been nothing short of amazing. Thank you for giving me a chance of knowing each and everyone of you and I really want to say I appreciate you all for your hard work this academic year. I have learned so much from you all and I do not know what I would have done without your support, corporation and patience. You all have unique and prosperous futures ahead of you and I am grateful to have been a part of your journey’s. Although, this was not how any of us envisioned the end of the semester celebrations to look like, please know I am beyond proud of your achievements academically and work wise. Always strive for greatness. Here are some of our insider moments we’ve had. Enjoy! Sarah- I’ll miss your stories and please avoid those yellow jackets Mikala- your “UPD megaphone” act during fire drills still cracks me up Tim- let me know when you get Tik Tok famous Alison- Keep on shining live you’ve done this spring semester Jaelin- I’m still awaiting that FIFA tournament Shay- You really ate the Popeys sandwich in my office Jared- I appreciate your sense of humor in staff meetings
Love you all - D.N.
University Villas Team Graduate Resident Director David Ndozi Ndikanwu RD Admin Asia Watson Resident Advisors Shayleece Graham Jaelin Hakim Mikala Wynn Alison Harris Jared Hornsby Sarah Neal Timothy Turner
Tim’s Tik Tok Trend Takes off: (left)
Do’s and Donuts: (above) Mikala became a Superstar (top left) Splash into the Villas (left) UV/WA Intramural Team (below)
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3 OMI with Gus (1) Costumes 101 (2) RA Training Battle of the Halls (3) Battle of the Halls Champs (4) S’mores Event (5)
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Watson Hall
"Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart." PLAY VIDEO
Mighty Mighty Watson! This year has been quite an interesting one. Although I have only had you all for less than a semester, I feel that we have built a strong connection nonetheless. You have given me grace and transparency throughout this entire semester, being understanding with running two buildings and also being so appreciative every moment you could. I could not be more grateful to inherit such an amazing staff of hard working, deeply caring, and strong willed individuals. This team truly shows that it doesn’t matter the size of a staff, but the people who are a part of it. Thank you all for allowing me to join your family! -Colton
BJs in Your PJs: (above): Watson residents at our sex education program. Watson Pride: (top right): Watson residents are making signs to show our hall spirit at the Battle of the Halls We are the Champions: (right) Watson/UV won the coveted spirit stick and housing cup. Making the official best halls on campus.
Watson Hall Team Resident Director Colton Goodman RD Admin Asia Watson Resident Advisors Arianna Fournier Tanner Mehrkens Charlotte Roberts Artrez Glover Derrick Henderson Rachael Lewis
Artrez - Most likely to Sleep Through the Apocalypse - Whether it be on the floor, on the uncomfortable couch seat in the Watson MPR, or standing in the office, you have a natural ability to fall asleep when you need it! Arianna - Most Likely to Become the President of Georgia Southern - Arianna, your strength, passion, and drive shows how much you care about higher education. I can’t say it enough but I know that one day you will change the way this field functions for the better. Charlotte - Most likely to Care the Most - Char, you have always been there for everyone on staff, including myself when I transitioned over. You have a natural and amazing way of showing how much you care for everyone and are willing to go to the moon and back for them. Tanner - Most Likely to be the next Ping Pong Champion - I don’t think there is a time where you haven’t played ping pong when in the MRP and winning! Derrick - Most likely to Win the Bet - Derrick, you have a natural side of competitiveness but you never let it show in a distasteful way. You enjoy having fun with people and being a good sport in a friendly competition! Rachael - Most likely to Have a Random Fact - In all the time I have known you, our 1:1s have always been interesting, in a good way! We have always talked about random things, especially when you have learned something new. I will miss our 1:1s!
BJs in Your PJs: (above left, above right, left): Watson residents at our sex education program. Spooky Watson Halloween: (right and below) RA Rachael is booging
2020 Awards & Recognition
Introducing the Golden While we were unable to participate in the NRHH “Of the Month” recognition program this year, we knew that we still wanted to be able to recognize the our staff and programs on a monthly basis. Because of this the “Golden Feather” was born. Each month, residents, staff, and partners were able to nominate individuals and programs for one of our multiple Golden Feather categories - sharing how this person or program met the ‘golden standard.’ The ‘golden’ standard describes an individual or experience that seeks to exemplify and uphold the Georgia Southern University Housing ethics and morals by encouraging self-discovery, growth and development. Thank you to all participants, nominees, and selection committee members that allowed this program to be successful this year. You have motivated and inspired our staff to reach and exceed our expectations.
Click Here for the 2019-2020 Golden Feather Winners
A Look at Our First Year of Golden Feather Awards Total # of Nominations: 331 Total # of Winners: 69 Most Nominated Golden Feather Award: Resident Advisor of the Month
Feather Awards “There is a great comfort and inspiration in the feeling of close human relationships and its bearing on our mutual fortunes - a powerful force, to overcome the ‘tough breaks’ which are certain to come to most of us from time to time.
Honoring the Memory of Nicole Hilliard This year we were saddened to learn that our Watson Hall Graduate Resident Director Nicole Hilliard had passed due to unexpected health complications. Nicole was an inspirational, humorous, and compassionate leader with a dedication to developing and recognizing student leaders. One of the final gifts Nicole gave us was her work creating the Golden Feathers Program with RD Verva Jean Shumate. Because of them,, our department gained a unique way to recognize the accomplishments of our students, staff, and programs this last fall . While our time with Nicole has passed, we continue to honor her life and legacy by recognizing supportive staff, appreciating the work of others, and focusing on the positives through the Golden Feathers Program.
Presenting the Golden Feather Leadership Pin This year each RELT member was given a special Golden Feather Leadership Pin to be presented to a deserving person, initiative, group, or program that has embodied the mission of University Housing throughout the year by making a positive contribution to our residents, team, and/or department. Congratulations and THANK YOU to all of our Leadership Pin Recipients for 2020.
Peter Blutreich’s 2020 Leadership Pin is Presented to Dr. Melanie Miller I am awarding my Golden Feather to someone who has advocated on behalf of University Housing, our staff, students, programs, and me personally. Dr. Melanie Miller has been transparent and authentic in representing needed information as well as providing guidance for not only Housing but for the Division of Student Affairs. It sometimes takes a crisis for people to see fairness and calm concise leadership. She has been a very effective leader who represents University Housing at the highest levels here at Georgia Southern. So thank you Dr Miller!
Pete Blutreich
Meg Hein’s 2020 Leadership Pin is Presented to Harvey Lee Moody III When I was asked to present this leadership pin to a staff member, it was hard to narrow it down to one person, as so many of you are doing great things. I am honored to present my pin to a student staff member who has continually given back to University Housing in a variety of ways. Whether it’s serving as an advocate for their students, volunteering – or maybe being voluntold - as the guinea pig for processes, or agreeing to sit in on RD interviews when they’re back home and not “technically” working for us, this person has always done so with a smile on their face, positive energy and maybe a TOUCH of sarcasm. Please join me in congratulating Harvey Moody, III, as the recipient of my Golden Feather Leadership Pin. Your presence will be missed by many as you transition out of the RA role and on to bigger and better things.
Ryan Hein’s 2020 Leadership Pin is Presented to Dawn Sonon I would like to recognize Dawn Sonon with my Golden Feather Memorial Pin. Dawn has shown in the last year that she is always willing to learn new tasks and does so with a positive attitude. As the first face and voice for many people connecting with University Housing, Dawn has shown the care and concern that our students and staff deserve.
Ryan Heins
Meg Heins
Ben Wicker’s 2020 Leadership Pin is Presented to Abby Meert Hello everyone, I have decided to present my Golden Feather Leadership Pin to Centennial Place GRD Abby Meert. I have been impressed with the efforts I have seen Abby take this year into becoming a full-time professional. During her first year, while not a disaster by any means, I observed Abby struggle with certain aspects of her position. She, like most of us, received feedback and suggestions on ways that might enhance her experience going into her final year at Georgia Southern. I was impressed as I saw Abby take in the feedback she had received, and then how she started actively seeking out more feedback. She took initiative to meet with a number of folks within the department and across the University, seeking opinions on not only her approach to her position, but a myriad of different interests. From this experience, Abby set out on her second year as a GRD with fervent determination to make the most out of her experiences, and to gain a true breadth of understanding in those areas. I have been especially appreciative to Abby’s efforts on her work in the Assessment Committee and the progress she helped our department achieve with our assessment practices through her efforts. She was also instrumental in making this year’s National Coming Out Day event receive a Golden Feather. She was also nominated for and received the GRD Golden Feather in September, recognition she received through her committed work with the RA staff in Centennial Place. I have truly appreciated Abby’s efforts this year to develop as a professional, and I look forward to seeing where her career will take her as she begins her full-time journey!
Ben Wicker
Nicole Faison’s 2020 Leadership Pin is Presented to Verva Jean Shumate The definition of appreciate is “to value or admire highly and recognize with gratitude”. However, this does not begin to express how grateful I am to have Verva Jean as part of not only my specific team but the residence education team. Verva has been a great resource and asset displaying her talents and experiences throughout several events, processes and situations. Verva has been a great resource and asset displaying her talents and experiences throughout several events, processes and situations. As a new staff member, she has been a great resource in getting familiar with the area, the institution and the department. Over the past eight months, Verva has shown great professional and personal growth. She continuously works hard to engage students and her graduate assistant to enhance their collegiate experience. She continues to look for ways to develop and enrich herself and as well as others involved within the department of residence life. Verva Jean has a great passion and compassion for the work that she does, and it can be seen through all of her interactions with students, staff and colleagues. She embodies the golden feather awards said mission of “authentically leading others with positivity, compassion and realism”. Verva Jean has continued to step outside of her professional and personal boundaries and explored new opportunities like presenting her RA Training Assessment project at SEAHO to taking on a new adventure to find her inner peace during stressful times. After dealing with multiple traumas within the department including in her direct area Verva Jean continued to keep an optimistic and developmental outlook in efforts to provide her staff with the outmost support through it all. Verva Jean can be seen always giving a lending hand even when she is not even asked. She doesn’t do this work for accolades but rather to be a supportive team member for others. She is hardworking with a kind heart, conscious mind and applies her energy and optimistic outlook to everything and everyone she interacts with. When we think about individuals in such a stressful field we not only look for someone who can manage, address and build a community but we look for that person who is a true team player, a person who authentically embodies the qualities and gifts to lead by example and be lead when needed. For the 2019-2020 academic year I am honored to present my Golden Feather Award to Ms. Verva Jean Shumate.
Nicole Faison
Erin McFerrin’s 2020 Leadership Pin is Presented to Megan Heins My Golden Feather Leadership Pin is going to Meg Heins for her tireless advocacy of the residence education professional staff, graduate staff, student staff, and residents. During her time as the Director of Residence Education, she has navigated a consolidation, being down vital staff members, changes in departmental structure and reporting, the closure of resident facilities, and now a world-wide pandemic. Through it all, there have been very few times that I've seen her lose her cool or get overwhelmed and I've never seen her take out her frustrations on others - despite the pressure around her and the negativity that pressure can create. She is by far the most patient person I've ever worked with and the best at balancing empathy with the need to challenge staff to see beyond their own needs/wants, reflect on behavior, and re-center goals during times of crisis. She's been there for staff navigating crises, making life decisions, adjusting to life changes, and dealing with grief and loss. On top of all this, she is a woman who has dealt with health issues and a mother who loves her children. Through these aspects of her life, she has modeled to others how you can find work/life harmony or prioritize your needs for the greater good. The number one lesson of leadership I've learned from Meg is that you will NEVER please everyone. You can do what you can do for the good of as many as you can, but at the end of the day - somethings will not be what you want them to be - and that's ok. It's ok to not give 100% to everything, it's ok to say no, and its ok to say let's table that for later. For these reasons, I feel Megan Heins deserves my Golden Feather Leadership Pin for 2020.
Erin McFerrin “I like the impossible... There’s less competitition.” Walt Disney
Casey Weaver’s 2020 Leadership Pin is Presented to Arianna Fournier It is with a great honor that I present my Golden Feather Leadership Pin to Arianna Fournier because has gone above and beyond this past year not only as an RA but as a student and future Student Affairs professional. Arianna is someone who worked for University housing for the past 3 years and has always been a true team player, and support of all things housing. Arianna has work hard to support her RA team and the department constantly going above and beyond the call of duty. Arianna was responsible for staff development and recognition within the staff they worked on and they put a lot of time and effort into every staff development and recognition item they worked on. Arianna was also a leader, mentor and friend to everyone on her Watson Hall staff team but also other staff members around campus. Finally, Arianna is someone who is not afraid to share her feeling or thoughts and is passionate about helping students succeed. It is with great pleasure that I present my Golden Feather Leadership Pin to Arianna Fournier.
Casey Weaver
“Leadership means that a group, large or small, is willing to entrust authority to a person who has shown judgement, wisdom, personal appeal, and proven competence.”
Announcing the 2020 The Golden Eagle Award Committee is proud to announce the winners of the 2020 Golden Eagle Awards and present the Golden Feather Leadership Pins. You can click below to view all of the 2020 awards and recognition or you can skip to speciďŹ c awards by clicking the MickeyPlay icon for each award.
Congratulations to all our winners and nominated individuals, groups, and experiences!! Campus Resident Of The Year
Gabriele Dr Figueiredo Kenta Hoadley Hannah Mcleod Zenia Cole
University Housing Staff Member Of The Year Dawn Sonon Hal McCool Nicole Faison
RLC Resident Of The Year Jessica Paul
Campus Partner Of The Year
Dr. Gemma Skuraton Michael Murphy Penny Frost Parker Olson Haley Shutley
Residential Community Of The Year Watson Hall
RLC Experience Of The Year
Rhythm: On the Rocks Global Crossroads: Little Italy Egg Drop Competition Make Your House Your Home Series
Student Staff Member Of The Year Kyndall Woods Terrie Bradley Victoria Harris
Hall Support Staff Member Of The Year Calvin Robbins Rebecca Allen Kendra Oglesby
RLC Partner Of The Year
Dr. Gemma Skuraton
Golden Eagle Awards Passive Experience Of The Year
Student Success Experience Of The Year
#HumansOfSouthernPines NEDA: Get Real Barbie Christian Marrero’s BBoards
Engaged Citizenship Experience Of The Year
Academic Excellence Reception First Year Rides to the Bus FL’s Haunted House Galentine’s Day OMI Social
Donuts for First Week FL’s Haunted House & Domestic Violence Awareness Graveyard No Buddy Left Behind
Lifelong Learning Experience Of The Year
Coronavirus Face Mask Decoration Party FLamily Town Hall & Email Let it Grow Life is Messy; Clean it Up
Self-Discovery Experience Of The Year
Contribution to Inclusive Communities Experience Of The Year
Smashing Stress
#HumansOfSouthernPines Cross the Line National Coming Out Day Celebration
New Resident Advisor Of The Year
Pat Burkett Legacy Award Of The Year
Josh Hughley Manuel Abadie Maria Gonzalez Mauro Morales Sadie Joiner Sharon Kanchik
Alexa Blanding Arianna Fournier Brandon Long Frederick Smith Harvey Lee Moody III Kate Hughes Sarah Daniels
Resident Director Of The Year
Claudine McKinney Kenzel Hill Kimberly Bradley Natasha Gabara Verva Jean Shumate Colton Goodman
PLAY VIDEO
Returning Resident Advisor Of The Year Megan Tanner Shayleece Graham Trey Rhone
Hilliard Memorial Award for the Graduate Staff Member of the Year David Ndozi Miranda Garske Kaitlyn Aaron
And the Winners Are…. 2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Campus Resident of the Year Gabriele De Figueiredo Gabi is an amazing resident!! She is involved on so much on campus as well as in our community of Global Crossroads. The main reason I am submitting her for Campus Resident of the year instead of RLC, is because she is involved in many extracurriculars outside of our floor--and still makes the time to be an active member! Gabi is such a positive member of Georgia Southern and I am so glad to have her in my life. Gabi earned a desk assistant position during the spring of 2020 and balances this job with her engineering curriculum, involvement in Women in Technology (as a vice president and social media coordinator), active member of Global Crossroads, American Society of Civil Engineers, International Club and being a True Blue eagle!! I see her at a lot of the athletics events cheering on the eagles, inspiring her friends to work hard and study while also making time to enjoy student life on campus. She attends many of our events and is a true leader on our floor and on our entire campus as a whole. Additionally, she has recently applied to be a peer leader for FYE classes. Gabi is an intelligent, kind, and genuine woman and she is extremely deserving of this award.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Campus Partner of the Year Dr. Gemma Skuraton Dr. Gemma Skuraton has demonstrated a superb commitment to collaborative programming with Georgia Southern Housing. Dr. Skuraton has assisted Housing with a myriad of events this year, including: ● Helped to move ROTC from a "theme" community to a "Living Learning Community" (LLC) starting in Fall 2019 based on her dissertation research and serving as the liaison between ROTC & Housing. ● Created a needs assessment to help to inform topic areas for ROTC's first Women's Inner Circle - will launch in March 2020 to start in Fall 2020. ● Offered Mindful Yoga & Myofascial Release Clinics as part of LLC.
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ROTC 7am breakfast & healthy tips
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Hall Support Staff Member of the Year Calvin Robbins It can easily be said that this staff member is the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time). So much has changed this year when it comes to the roles and responsibilities between University Housing and Facilities since the consolidation of University Housing Facilities with Plant Facilities. This staff member was a solo maintenance on-call staff member for the first several months of the academic year. During this time, they wore several hats. They were on-call for all of campus and responsible for initiating and monitoring fire drills for all halls on campus. No matter how busy or exhausted he was, this staff member did everything with a smile and can-do attitude. There are very few members of the Facilities team that students and student staff recognize on a daily basis. However, if one thing is for sure, no one misses the work that Mr. Calvin does. His personality is contagious, even in times of crisis. When the time came and a person was selected to finally assist in the nighttime on-call structure, Mr. Calvin took this individual under his wing and trained him on all aspects of the role. Mr. Calvin's co-night maintenance worker, Ryan Beckman, gave the following statement about Mr. Calvin: Calvin makes being at work fun! He showed me the ropes and made sure I knew who everyone was to best succeed while on the job. Calvin is a hard-worker, and most people don't know that Georgia Southern is not his only job. Mr. Calvin took on the role of facilitating fire drills this year, as previously mentioned. This is no easy feat and requires at least eight (8) nights twice a year listening to constant fire alarms. With this, obviously comes interactions with staff and students. Mr. Calvin maintained a positive attitude during fire drills and really made them fun by interacting with staff and students. We genuinely believe that there is not enough recognition for Mr. Calvin and all the work he has done this year.
Congratulations All!!!
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Student Staff Member of the Year Victoria Harris Ambitious people take initiative and this Desk Assistant's work ethic mirrors this. Imagine coming into the office confident every key and piece of equipment is in its place or followed up on. Imagine walking in to see a staff member moving everything off of the front desk to sanitize it themselves. Imagine a staff member greeting everyone as they enter and eagerly asking the Resident Directors (RDs) if there was anything they could assist with. Imagine a staff member seeing a need and completing it without being asked. It sounds like the perfect employee and this DA is as close as it gets!
We love when this DA is working a shift because they always go the extra mile. One of us accidentally dropped a bowl of food in our office one day. We both jumped to get it cleaned up but this DA went to the back, immediately grabbed a broom and cleaning supplies, and started helping us clean up. They most definitely did not have to do that but it is an example of their attention to detail and willingness to serve others.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the University Housing Staff Member of the Year Hal McCool
This staff member operates with an it was my pleasure serving you attitude. Their zeal for life and desire to help others make this individual a joy to work with. Hal McCool is always quick to respond to messages, regularly goes the extra mile, and always takes time to get to know and speak to everyone who crosses his path. This year was particularly enlightening as this staff member was conquering his own academic goals, but that did not stop his determination to aid co-workers and students. Be it through Google Hangout, phone, email, or in person, there was no doubt that Hal would be willing to assist in every aspect. Through what some may consider a simple and brief interaction, Hal demonstrated his knowledge and passion for Georgia Southern. In the hallway of Watson, right outside of Hal's office, there are photos of old residential complexes hanging on the wall. A Resident Director (RD) was curious to understand the history of the department, so Hal explained the halls and had a conversation about the history of the department with this RD. Hal is what we like to call: true blue through and through.
Many individuals may overlook the work that Hal does to impact our department and University, however, we believe that he should be recognized for all of his positive contributions. Hal is passionate about Georgia Southern and the advancement of University Housing. Hal maintains a positive attitude, regardless of the items on his plate. During billing season, Hal was a vital member of our team in assessing and issuing bills to more than half of our complex. What set Hal apart from the norm was his understanding of the issues we were facing, mistakes that inevitably were made, and complex processes that we had in place. Hal maintained a positive attitude in ďŹ xing mistakes with us and his help has not gone unnoticed. Over the last year he worked with a partnering company to overhaul our RLC assignments process. What used to be a dreaded task for me each spring has SIGNIFICANTLY improved with his help, guidance, and innovation. We began by discussing needs and then worked together to see what process would be best for staff, students, and campus partners. During this stressful process he was always polite, helpful, humorous, and willing to tweak items. Though I'm sure there are days he would like to not answer my phone calls, he always does. He is patient enough to explain the reports dashboard, knowledgeable enough to build reports at the drop of a hat, and has the foresight to anticipate process challenges.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Residential Learning Community Resident of the Year Jessica Paul - Global Crossroads Jessica is a wonderful and sweet member of our oor! I always see her in the study room/community room and she is an active member of our community. I was extremely excited to hear that she applied for the RA position to work on Global Crossroads and she told me she received the offer! She is going to be an amazing RA and she is truly someone that allows others to be open and trust. Jessica participated in Make This Hall Your Home, volunteered to promote Global Crossroads during two Eagle Previews, and is an active member of the Global Crossroads Community. Her ability to attend socials, promote our oor, and balance school work and writing (because she is ALSO a talented writer!) proves her potential to become (and she already is one) a great leader in our community
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Residential Learning Community Partner of the Year Dr. Gemma Skuraton Dr. Gemma Skuraton is simply one of the most dedicated individuals, full of ideas and strategies to improve the student experience. Gemma became a large part of the Army ROTC Theme Community this year in Southern Pines. She not only worked with Military Science cadre to establish and assess injury prevention tactics for cadets, but has aided in the development and success of the theme community in Southern Pines. Gemma has prepared materials for ROTC-speciďŹ c programs including information about nutrition, safe and healthy summers, and injury prevention and relaxation exercises. Gemma aided in preparing hot breakfasts for cadets on Friday mornings at 6 a.m. throughout the semester, lending the support of her Graduate Assistants and interns as possible. She intentionally designed surveys to poll students about their interest in a Women's Inner Circle structure, branding the community to be focused on empowerment for female tactical athletes. Gemma has always offered up ideas on how to best engage with Army ROTC cadets, connecting their learning in the classroom to their experience in the hall. She is a great advocate, always prioritizing ways to best support students in their wellness endeavors. Her involvement this year has not only positively contributed to the development of the Army ROTC community this year, but has also helped set the bar for the future of the community.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Residential Learning Community Experience Innovation LLC’s Egg Drop Competition
The Egg Drop Competition was an enlightening and successful program for the Innovation LLC community. The residents that attended proved they were innovative and intelligent in this challenge of survival. Residents had to form teams and create safety capsules to protect an egg. The residents were limited on materials and had to be creative to ensure the safety of their eggs. There was a time limit as well that created an intense and competitive environment for those who were involved. Once time expired, each team proceeded to drop their capsule containing the egg off the balcony. If a teams' capsule adequately protected the egg with no visible cracks, they then proceeded to lose their said capsule from two stories. This challenge tested the survivability of each capsule and making sure the egg will not crack in any sharp fall. Overall, we had 13 different groups participate in this event, and they all seemed to be having a good time. It was exciting to see how much variation there was in each team's design choices. This event sponsored by the Innovation LLC gave residents hands-on experience to use skills that are being taught in the classroom and also provide a place for creativity. Throughout the event, residents were able to show their creativity and passion through each design that was constructed. When it came time actually to drop the eggs, most of the residents' designs were able to protect their eggs, at least for the ďŹ rst round. Even when the eggs cracked, the residents were still very excited and cheerful, and they were quick to cheer on the remaining teams and support each other.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Residential Community of the Year Watson Residence Hall I am nominating Watson Hall for the Residential Community of the Year Award because I truly believe that our hall embodies the best parts of Residence Life. I tried to think of a particular hall, but we are such a tight-knit community that you can't separate us into hallways, all the students make Watson what it is! We are resilient, caring, and always down for a game of pool, ping pong, or DnD. There is always at least one resident in the MPR every night; whether they are studying, having an impromptu movie night, or just hanging out. Watson's student engagement went beyond our little neck of the woods. Throughout the year both staff or students in Watson made sure our presence was known both at housing-related events and campus-wide. As one of the RAs over Watson, this group of students has gone beyond RLC and hallway affiliation and come together embracing and supporting each other across the hallways. They have been patient with us as a staff as we were continually adapting over the year. Overall with the community bathrooms and small cinder block lined walls Watson has a reputation of being the worst hall, but if you asked anyone in this building Watson is far from the worse. In these hallways, we have made countless memories: through late-night talks, random board game nights, programs, DnD campaigns, and more. We came in as strangers and in the end, left a family.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Student Success Experience of the Year Freedom's Landing’s First Year Rides to the Bus Starting college for the first time can be a scary transition for a lot of people. Add moving into a complex designed for upperclass students and it's a whole new ballgame. Mind you, some may argue that this complex is practically located “off campus”, approximately 1 mile away from quick access to essential resources first year students in particular need to succeed as college students. In an effort to welcome first year students to the complex, get them excited about the first day of their college classes, and show students the location of the nearest bus stop, this residence hall hosted “First Year Rides to the Bus.”
A few golf cart trained Resident Advisors (RAs) and Resident Directors (RDs) checked out extra University Housing golf carts and stationed them by the first year buildings from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM. While students left their units, the staff greeted them with a smile and candy while offering them a golf cart ride to student's faces as they realized they were not alone on this bleak walk to the bus stop, is a memory that is stained in our hearts forever. We have no doubt that this set the tone for their first day of class and their first academic year at Georgia Southern University. In a residential complex that typically struggles with student interaction, this brief gesture was talked about throughout the year. Students recalled being on a golf cart with RAs and RDs, discussing their fears and reassuring their success as Eagles. While riding with RAs, students were able to ask questions about teachers, resources, best methods of getting from class-to-class, and so much more. This resource bridges the gaps for a lot of students and made connecting easier for RAs throughout the year. Nearly 100 students took part in First Year Rides to the Bus in just four hours, making this one of the most successful programs of the entire year for this complex.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Self- Discovery Experience of the Year Southern Pine’s Smashing Stress Smashing Stress was an event that was held at Southern Pines during Stress Less Week. During this event, residents got to come out and relieve their stress by smashing pinatas that were prepared with candies inside. This event was a success because a lot of residents came out to the event, although it was cold outside. The residents circled and cheered others on while they got rid of their stress. Each resident took turns hitting the pinata, and when the pinatas burst, the residents would rush for the candies that spread across the floor. The residents were laughing, and you could tell that they were having a perfect time. This event was needed because the residents needed a way to relieve their stress and a fun way to engage with others. Throughout the event, healthy ways to relieve stress and to learn healthy ways to cope with stress were provided to each resident to promote overall health! Smashing Stress was a unique event that has been done at any other hall on campus before.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Lifelong Learning Experience of the Year Southern Pine’s Life is Messy; Clean It Up Life Is Messy; Clean It Up was designed as a collaborative program between Southern Pines and the custodial team.Recognizing trends of students not properly caring for their spaces, this program was designed as a way to not only teach residents how to maintain their rooms but also to put useful products into their hands. Kendra Oglesby intentionally selected products that could help students in removing hard water stains, cleaning and preventing mold and mildew build up in their showers, and lifting spills and stains from their carpet. She provided demonstrations of how to utilize each of the purchased products and talked about the potency of professional chemicals when compared to household ones. Additionally, the event included a discussion of how to utilize the work order system, as well as information about when a resident may be billed for custodial services. Roughly 40 residents attended the program and learned how not only to take care of their current space but how to apply this knowledge in their future apartments and homes. Students were able to select products that could be most useful to them and were encouraged to ask questions and learn more about establishing a cleaning routine and how to care for a variety of surfaces.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Engaged Citizenship Experience of the Year Freedom’s Landing Haunted House and National Domestic Violence Awareness Graveyard
In October, the Freedom's Landing Staff planned and implemented a haunted house and domestic awareness graveyard. Even on what seemed to be the rainiest night of October, over 200 students from both on and off campus came to the event. Before entering the haunted house, participants navigated a campus partner resource fair. The Sustainability Office donated 150 reusable grocery bags for participants to use as they collected materials from each campus partner table. Among these resources were the academic success peer mentors sharing the services they had available, information on Shuttle Gus (a safe-ride program), the campus Fire Marshall with a simulation on fire extinguisher safety, the wellness center with the spooky truth on drugs and alcohol, safe sex practices and free condoms from the Health Promotions Office, and more.
The implementation of this event took a lot of pre-planning. For several weeks, the entire staff at Freedom's Landing met to discuss the ďŹ ne details of each element of the haunted house (from decorations to acting roles), resources that would be beneďŹ cial for students to experience and/or learn, and thoughtful planning of the domestic awareness graveyard. The domestic awareness graveyard in and of itself was visually appealing and sent a powerful message. It displayed stories of sexual assault survivors and was accompanied with a table of sexual assault resources and buttons of solidarity. The feedback from this event was incredibly positive. It is arguably one of the best staff development activities we did all semester. Seeing the team come together, have fun, and be full of pride at their success made it worthwhile. The residents spoke of the knowledge they gleaned from the resources, the spooky fun they had interacting with the haunted house, and some went so far as to inquire how they could become involved with the haunted house the next academic year. The campus partners we collaborated with shared how encouraging it was for them to be involved and interact with so many students afterhours. They too were excited about the possibility of remaining involved in this event for years to come.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the
Contribution to Inclusive Communities Experience of the Year Residence Education’s National Coming Out Day Celebration This is the second year our department has hosted the National Coming Out Day Celebration and I feel this is one of our best and most impactful signature events. This year the event included concessions, infographics and signs that educated students on events in LGBTQ+ history, terminology used in the community, the closet door photobooth, campus partner tables, 'my coming out day' stories, and more. Not only does this event help to support our LGBTQ+ population by giving them a place to recognize and celebrate their community, but it helps to educate students who aren't familiar with the community, it's history, and the challenges it's overcome. Further, it is always a struggle to get staff to make time to attend the events of others - but the program was such a success that many RAs, GRDs, and RDs attended to support students and the leadership team of this event. Because of this attendance, the creativity of the program, and the celebration of diversity within the event, I believe this program is an amazing, productive, and positive strategy within our department.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Passive Experience of the Year Freedom's Landings NEDA Campaign: Get Real Barbie! This year, Resident Director (RD) Kimberly Bradley and RD Claudine McKinney have taken extreme steps to implement topics in the Freedom's Landing (FL) curriculum pertaining to mental health and personal wellness as a result of issues that have occurred this year within FL. There is no denying that FL serves a diverse population of students who all present different needs. Freedom's Landing is home to transfer students, upper-division students, approximately 180 ďŹ rst-year students, and a number of students who identify as adult learners. The FL RDs have dedicated their year to understanding how to put the needs of all of these populations together to best aid them in learning outside of the classroom. Freedom's Landing RDs collaborated in February to create a passive engagement experience sent via email to the entire FL community. To honor National Eating Disorder Awareness (NEDA) Week, RD Kimberly Bradley and RD Claudine McKinney worked to educate the FL population on the signs, statistics, and resources as they pertain to eating disorders. The speciďŹ c focus of the one-page resource was educating residents on warning signs and statistics related speciďŹ cally to the current population of students in Freedom's Landing. The resource was titled: Get Real Barbie (GRB), an adaptation of a campaign created by South Shore Eating Disorders Collaborative. Get Real Barbie was sent through Constant Contact to all Freedom's Landing residents, and successfully reached above a 50% open rate. FL's GRB was all-encompassing and educational in nature. Discussing a topic that sits at this level of sensitivity can be challenging. FL evaluated its attendance at events of a similar sensitivity and determined that the best action plan was to send this information via email in a passive format. The most important piece of this, however, was including a resource for students to utilize should GRB cause them any feelings of danger. The resource serves as a one-stop design to ensure residents are aware of this topic that affects so many college students in today's world.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the New Resident Advisor of the Year Josh Hughley
WE HAVE A TIE!!
Occasionally we are lucky enough to meet people who radiate inner joy. They are simply patient, calm, and good These people truly show up! No matter the task or circumstance, this RA has the most positive and contagious outlook. They come into every staff meeting with a smile on their face and a statement of “What's Poppin'!?” Their sense of humor mellows out our team regularly when tension feels high. In addition to being a great teammate, their personality allows them to easily connect to their residents making them feel welcomed and cared for. On top of all of these things, their care for people is evident in everything that they do. This staff member responded to a drug incident and was present with RD Claudine McKinney until 4:00 AM. Any other person might complain about being in the cold or waiting outside for that length of time. This staff member utilized this time to ask thoughtful questions, create conversation and partnerships, and simply be present. During this incident, this RA completely shocked RD McKinney with his willingness to provide assistance where needed. The RA genuinely listened to University Police, who spent hours guarding the door that turned out could have presented an extreme danger. The RA was calm and patient in a situation that easily could have created fear and the desire to shut down. These are very few instances where everyone on a team likes another person; however, that is the case with this RA. Their positivity and dedication to creating lasting and meaningful friendships while on staff was truly inspiring.
Sadie Joiner
Sadie is an active and enthusiastic new staff member. She continuously has sought ways to intentionally connect with her residents, taking pride in her interactions and programming strategies. Sadie created a community in which her residents knew her and understood the level of care and support available to them. She continuously showed a desire to help others in any way possible, even offering her assistance in mediating conflicts for students on different floors of our community. She was always willing to learn something new and step outside of her comfort zone to provide better opportunities for her residents and the greater Southern Pines community. When walking into the clubhouse in the evening, the likelihood of seeing a positive interaction between Sadie and a resident was very high. She was continually present and involved, hosting spontaneous events like a Super Smash Bros tournament, or playing ping pong. Through every interaction, it was evident that Sadie truly loved the RA position and was eager to continue supporting students in their transition to and through their first year of college. She has challenged herself and grown tremendously, both professionally and personally, throughout this experience. She is a positive leader who has excelled as a first-year RA.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Returner Resident Advisor of the Year Trey Rhone In building wide surveys, this RA is regularly pointed out by residents as an RA that goes above and beyond to make people feel comfortable and included. The Resident Directors (RDs) of Freedom's Landing conducted a survey for data to encourage RAs to grow in the spring semester. Multiple students indicated that in the FL Clubhouse, this RA goes above and beyond to make the environment welcoming, inclusive, and fun. This RA is an RA that we can always depend on. If there is anything that we need as RDs, they are typically one of the ďŹ rst to step up and volunteer. They contribute much past physical presence as well by aiding in decisions in group messages, assisting during 1:1s, and being there with creative ideas. One of things I appreciate most in this RA is their desire to create safe spaces for minority students. In addition to this, they constantly challenge the status quo and are authentically themselves. They have dedicated their year to maintaining a positive environment within FL and the campus. Their involvement with Statesboro Pride, National Coming Out Day, and Burning Swamp further enhance their presence as a student and staff member. They support the community and Georgia Southern while maintaining a positive role as a student and staff member.
2020 Housing Cup Presented by CRI Freedom’s Landing
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Pat Burkett Legacy Award Arianna Fournier Arianna is a RA in Watson hall and while I'm excited to see what she does next; I know that Housing is losing an amazing staff member this year when Arianna graduates. I have always been impressed with her positive nature, humor/snark (my favorite), hair color tenacity, openness, compassion, and advocacy for others. As a RA, she creates interactive and creative curriculum strategies that help other understand the perspectives of those different than them. She is able to educate students on areas of social justice by being real, honest, and transparent with who she is and her own challenges. By opening up to others in this way, she encourages her staff, peers, and residents to be open with their own journeys, question their own beliefs and behaviors, learn about the experiences of others, and determine how to best confront injustice and advocate for the needs of others. Her work extends beyond individual relationships. She is a skilled event planner and was involved in the leadership of our National Coming Out Celebration, an impactful event focused on learning more about the LGBTQ+ community and supporting its members. Additionally, she has contributed to the growth of her peers by presenting during staff training, reviewing staff policies/procedures for their accessibility, and taking over curriculum duties in the spring semester for the residents of her hall. While all Watson staff were still facilitating curriculum strategies, Arianna used her skills and understanding of student development to oversee curriculum efforts, support her staff members programs, and coordinate joint efforts in the community. Again, while we'll be sad to see her move on to bigger and better things, I know that her contribution of knowledge and creativity to our department's initiatives will be something that we can utilize for years to come.
2020 Nicole Hilliard Memorial Graduate Staff Member of the Year Award Kaitlyn Aaron
Helen Keller once said, "Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much." This quote is a perfect representation of working with this Graduate Resident Director. Throughout this year, Kaitlyn was faced with many personal and professional challenges, but that did not slow her down. Kaitlyn was able to facilitate and Coordinate multiple strategies that focused on developing skills to help residents be successful such as budget-friendly cooking options, resiliency tools, and cleaning habits to be a few. Kaitlyn is the heart behind Southern Pines, she consistently reaches out to each staff member and always goes the extra mile to make sure that everyone is thriving around her. Through each challenge this year, Kaitlyn showed grace and perseverance to find a way to serve the Southern Pines family and make each day better than the previous day. Kaitlyn is an essential piece of Pines and helping it be successful in every way possible. Kaitlyn continues to put a smile on each staff member's face and never is too busy to problem-solve to make the living experience in Pines the greatest. Kaitlyn has brainstormed throughout this year about new initiatives in ROTC and Pines and looking for ways to make the experience more than merely living and working on campus. Kaitlyn has a giant heart and is a massive piece in pulling all of the Pines together to do so much more This year Kaitlyn demonstrated her understanding of student-centered learning through her leadership of the ROTC theme community and her contributions to the curriculum model. One of my favorite things is speaking with her about upcoming events she's planning and watching her brainstorming process. She is full of good ideas and what puts her apart from others is the ability to sort through those ideas and prioritize strategies that will maximize student engagement and learning. Watching her create strategies based on self-care, mental health, and coping skills helped to influence my own work and the work of others. Beyond (and underlying) these abilities is the fact that Kaitlyn is one of those rare, balanced old souls. Some people spend their whole lives trying to find a balance between their past experiences, their learned knowledge, and their emotional responses. But for Kaitlyn, the ability to navigate these factors appear innate in her personality. She is both wise beyond her years and open enough to find the silver lining. When people are being challenging, she is able empathize with another's experience, identify and properly respond to her own emotional response, and be mature enough to know when/if to push back at that time. I know many adults without this skill, and its this quality that I respect most in Kaitlyn. While I know this year had some very high peaks and very low valleys for Kaitlyn, she was the epitome of grace, compassion, dedication, and self-care throughout it all. While I'll be sad to lose her this next year, I can't wait to see where she goes from here and would consider myself lucky to work with her again.
2020 Golden Eagle Award for the Resident Director of the Year Claudine McKinney Claudine McKinney has been such a huge part of creating an inclusive culture and going above and beyond for her Resident Advisor's and residents at Freedom's Landing. Claudine is passionate about helping others and shows that by always checking up on people's mental health.Whenever anyone walks into her office, she always asks if they are doing okay and truly listens to their needs. Even when Claudine has been faced with adversity of transitioning into being in a supervisor position, she has faced this challenge by working hard and always trying to improve herself to be the best she can at her job. This shows that she not only sees this as a job, but as a way she can make a difference in others' lives. During the Spring training week, Freedom's Landing received a new Resident Advisor. I noticed Claudine welcoming this new staff member and putting in a lot of extra time that week helping her get acclimated with working at housing. When we then welcomed other staff members throughout this semester due to staff shortages, Claudine did the same thing to them as well. Both Claudine and Kimberly thought of a creative way for both old and new staff members to get to know each other by allowing old staff members to meet with and teach new ones different procedures. This shows that she truly understands the importance of staff to gel and work well together. When we had trouble with some staff members not working together during first semester, Claudine also worked tirelessly in that situation to make sure everyone was heard and respected one another through her actions of listening to the staff and allowing everyone to speak their opinions. During Spring training Claudine also stayed up late helping a couple Resident Advisors, including me, create door decks and making them look stunning. I also have noticed working with Claudine that she makes sure everyone on our staff accepts people for who they are and has created an atmosphere of truly allowing people to be themselves without any judgement. Oprah Winfrey wrote, “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” Being a first-year RD can challenging, overwhelming, and disheartening at times. This RD showed grace, passion, and determination to overcome each roadblock that presented itself. Claudine has become an incredible asset and resource for growth. Claudine will be your biggest cheerleader and strongest challenger to make sure that you are always the best version of yourself. Claudine is willing to lift others around her and support them through each challenge. Working alongside Claudine means you never have to face a struggle alone. Throughout this year, Claudine has created incredible strategies in Freedom's Landing, such as the Domestic Violence graveyard and the passive campaign on eating disorders. Claudine also is willing to volunteer to assist on multiple committees and be an incredible asset. The HIP committee would have been behind without the extra hands and ideas that Claudine provided. Although this year was nothing that she imagined, Claudine has grown tremendously, stood for what she believed in, and fought to make changes. Georgia Southern is fortunate to have someone who is passionate about student success and development, and Claudine shows that passion with each interaction. Claudine is truly a gem
Congratulations to all our Nominees and Winners
Recognition of Our Graduating Staff
ADVENTURE
MEET THE
IS OUT THERE!
Wisdom from Our Graduating Staff Do not over-stress over anything, from my experience it doesn't help! ;)
From a young age, we are taught that failing is bad. But it isn’t. Failing is a good thing. I have learned to not be afraid of failure because my failures have made me extremely strong! If it wasn’t for my failures I wouldn’t be where I am today. DO NOT BE AFRAID TO FAIL
Do not let the bad days keep you down, and do not let the good days keep you in the clouds
Know your boundaries, but don't be afraid to tell yourself/others, "¿Porque no los dos?"
Try to get your school work done ahead of time, so you won’t become overwhelmed when random school or work assignments pop up. Also remember to take care of your mental health, so schedule week in advance to ensure that you have time to yourself.
Treat yourself with kindness... college is hard and this job is hard. Its okay if you stumble, but pick yourself up and keep going.
As a graduate student, it's important to stay true to who you are and never lose sight in your vision. When things start to get tough, take a deep breath, reflect, restore and refocus! Enjoy your time, engage in new adventures, gain knowledge and leave a footprint to indicate that you were here! I wish you all the best on your journey. Peace and light!
Having a growth mindset will take you far. Moments of failure can be stepping stones to success. Always be eager to learn whether it be school or from your relationships.
Wholeheartedly celebrate your successes, and learn from your mistakes. Remember that everything happens for a reason, and every life experience you have builds you into the greatness you're destined to be.
"Never half-ass two things. Whole-ass one thing." -Ron Swanson, Parks & Rec
Cherish the time you have at GSU because it goes by fast.
Have fun, be open to new ideas and new perspectives from your residents, and don’t overwhelm yourself. Take care of yourself as well as you take care of others!!
You are more of a leader than you think. Over time you see yourself grow as a person and it's really special when you realize how far you've come.
Trust and have FAITH
Never doubt yourself so you can be the greatest version of yourself.
Make as many connections as you can, you never know where they may lead you.
Expect the unexpected
Make the best out of every situation. In other words, when life gives you lemons, make sweet tea!
Greet yourself with kindness
Don't be afraid to ask the question that everyone is thinking, no matter how stupid.
“Could be worse. Not sure how, but it could be.” —Eeyore
don't be afraid to make mistakes it happens just learn from it and keep improving
Self care is one of the most important things you can do for yourself
Always go after what you want and stand up for what you believe in. I never thought I would be where I am now and pursuing becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner, but that is exactly where I am headed. Learn to love the curveballs life throws at you and take life on with an open mind.
Enjoy your college experience. It is the one place where you can always find something new to do. Just remember to be safe and be true to you.
Even though this job can be rough/tough at times, if I was sent back in time to 3-4 years ago, I'd like to think that I would still be an RA. Finger guns are an acceptable hello or goodbye.
Kaitlyn Aaron M. Ed. Higher Education Administration Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Graduate Staff Member position at Southern Pines.
"We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths." -Walt Disney
Ariel Alston
Master of Public Health Community Health Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Graduate Staff Member position at Watson Hall
"If you can dream it, you can do it." - Walt Disney
Alexa Blanding
BS in Multimedia Film and Production with a Minor in Sociology Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing.
"I'm with you till the end of the line" - Captain America
Ebonia Bly
BS in Nutrition & Food Science with a Minor in Chemistry
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position in Centennial Place & Kennedy Hall!
"All our dreams will come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney
Terrie Bradley Dual BBA in Finances and Accounting Thank you for dedicating 5 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Senior Desk Assistant position!
“If every pork chop was perfect, we wouldn’t have hotdogs.” - Steven Universe
Taraya Bratton Bachelor of Science in Public Health Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Centennial Place
"Just keep swimming" -Dory
Benjamin Cosby BBA in Accounting with a Minor in Japanese Thank you for dedicating 5 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Southern Pines.
"It's no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then" - Alice in Wonderland
Jacob Crawford
BS in Sociology
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Centennial Place.
"The most worth-while thing is to try to put happiness into the lives of others." -Robert Baden-Powell
Sarah Daniels
BS in Communication Studies with a Minor in French Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing
“Just because it’s what is done, doesn’t mean it is what should be done” - Cinderella
Kristy Daniels
BS in Exercise Science
Thank you for dedicating a Fall/Spring semester to the Resident Advisor position a Centennial Place.
Kiera Davis
BA in Recreation with a minor in Gerontology Thank you for dedicating 2 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
"Have faith in your dreams and someday your rainbow will come shining through." — Cinderella
Madi Davis
B.S. in Public Health Education and Promotion with a Minor in Nutrition and Food Science Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the RD Administrator position at Freedom's Landing & Southern Pines.
"The flower that blooms in adversity is most rare and beautiful of all." - The Emperor (Mulan)
Bodie Fox
BA in Writing and Linguistics
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing.
"If you were waiting for the opportune moment, that was it." -Jack Sparrow
Miranda Garske
M. Ed in Higher Education Administration
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Graduate Staff Member position at Eagle Village.
"The human world... it's a mess" - Sebastian
Rayne Gaston BA in Business Management Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Southern Courtyard.
"I wouldn't change it for anything. Your friendship is the best present ever." - Tigger
Abigail Gordon BS in Information Technology with a Minor in Photography Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Eagle Village.
Hakuna Matata -Timon (Lion King)
Shay Graham
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Centennial Place, Freedom's Landing, University Villas, & Watson Hall.
“I never look back, Darling. It distracts from the now. -Edna Mode
Ryann Heninger BS Biology Thank you for dedicating 2 Fall/Spring semesters to the RLC Peer Mentor position at Centennial Place
"Compromise where you can. Where you can't, don't. Even if everyone is telling you that something wrong is something right. Even if the whole world is telling you to move, it is your duty to plant yourself like a tree, look them in the eye, and say 'No, you move'." -Sharon Carter
Kate Hughes
BS in Psychology
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing, Kennedy Hall, & Watson Hall.
“The human world... it’s a mess.” -Sebastian in the Little Mermaid
Chelsea Ibezim BS in Public health with a Minor in Chemistry Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
“Hakuna Matata, it’s means no worries” - The Lion King.
Mallori Johnson BA in Elementary Education
Thank you for dedicating 8 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Centennial Place.
“Goodbye? Oh, no please. Can we just go back to page one and start over again?” -Winnie the Pooh
Haley Johnson
MA in Art History
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Kennedy Hall, & Southern Courtyard.
“Higher. Further. Faster� -Captain Marvel
KaTerra Johnson BS in Psychology Thank you for dedicating 2 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
"Venture outside your comfort zone. The rewards are worth it." -Rapunzel/Tangled
Abby Joyner
BA in Business Information Systems Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
"Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever." - Walt Disney
Rachael Lewis
BS in psychology with a minor in philosophy
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing, Kennedy Hall, & Watson Hall.
“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all� -Mulan
Brandon Long
Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing, Eagle Village, & Southern Pines.
"Don't just fly, soar." from Dumbo
Charlotte Maekelt BBA in Supply Chain Management
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
There's a great big beautiful tomorrow.
Axe Marsha
BA in Business Management with an Emphasis in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Thank you for dedicating 7 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing, & Southern Pines.
"A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference" -Eeyore
Brandy McDonald-Johnson
BS in Multimedia Journalism with a Minor in Public Relations Thank you for dedicating 2 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Eagle Village.
“The very things that hold you down are going to lift you up.�-Dumbo
Abby Meert
M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Graduate Staff Member position at Centennial Place, & Freedom's Landing.
"Whoa! Look at those wrinkles. What is holding this woman together?" -Kuzco
Tanner Mehrkens
Ba in Mechanical Engineering
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Eagle Village & Watson Hall.
"Thew things that make me different are the things that make me, me" -Piglet
Eli Miller
BS in Biology with a Minor in Spanish
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's landing.
"Part of the journey is the end." -Tony Stark/Avengers: Endgame
Harvey Lee Moody III Bachelor of Science in Public Relations
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Eagle Village & Kennedy Hall.
I don’t know a lot of Disney, but here’s something from Greys Anatomy: “It’s a beautiful day to save lives” - Derek Shepard
David Ndozi
M.Ed Higher Education Administration
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Graduate Staff Member position at Freedom's Landing, Eagle Village, & Watson Hall.
Lizaida Pérez-Collazo
Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Secondary English Thank you for dedicating 10 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Graduate Staff Member position!
"This is just part of growing up, a little adventure, a little rebellion." -Flynn Ryder/Tangled
Eilleen Plante
Fashion Merchandising and Apparel Design Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Centennial Place, Southern Courtyard, & Southern Pines.
“Do you ever wonder why we’re always, like... wearing gloves?” -An Extremely Goofy Movie
Trey Rhone BA in Writing & Linguistics with a Minor in English
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Centennial Place, & Freedom's Landing.
"We never lose our demons, Mordo. We only learn to live above them" -The Ancient One/Doctor Strange
Sapheria Emani Samuels
M.Ed in Higher Education Administration Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Graduate Staff Member position at Centennial Place, & Southern Courtyard.
"You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think"-Winnie the Pooh
Chace Scarboro
Bachelor of Science in Construction with Minor in Business and Military Science Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Southern Pines.
"The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it" -Peter Pan/ Peter Pan
Tynika Smallwood
BS In biology
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
You must not let anyone define your limits because of where you come from. Your only limit is your soul.”— Gusteau (Ratatouille)
Frederick Smith
BBA in Economics with a Minor in Finance Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Centennial Place, Freedom's Landing, & Watson Hall.
“Keep Moving Forward” -Meet the Robinson
Kacey Smith
BS in Biological Sciences Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Freedom's Landing
“You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.” —Christopher Robin
Ainsley Stephens BS. in Psychology
Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Southern Pines.
"You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." - Winnie the Pooh
Kyla Thomas BSED in Special Education with a Concentration in Mathematics Thank you for dedicating 1 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
"Look inside yourself; you are more than what you have become." - The Lion King
Kachi Ugonna BA in Information Technology, minor in Public Health Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
"Don't just fly, soar" -Dumbo
Haylee Walker
BBA in Accounting
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
“I never look back, darling. It distracts from the now.” -Edna Mode/The Incredibles
Chanz Wallace
BS in Mechanical Engineering
Thank you for dedicating 2 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Southern Pines.
“Think happy thoughts” peter pan
Alyssa Watrous
BA in History with a double minor in Anthropology and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Thank you for dedicating 6 Fall/Spring semesters to the RD Administrator position at Eagle Village, & Southern Pines.
"You just need to believe in yourself." -Toy Story
Ranika Williams
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Thank you for dedicating 4 Fall/Spring semesters to the Resident Advisor position at Eagle Village.
"The only way to get what you want in this world is through hard work." -Princess Tiana
Kendall Willis
B.S. in Psychology with a Minor in Gerontology Thank you for dedicating a Fall/Spring semester to University Housing in the Desk Assistant position!
"Remember, you're the one who can fill the world with sunshine." -Snow White
“I hope we never lose sight of one thing — that it was all started by a little mouse.” -Walt Disney
Congratulations
Go Eagles!!
Messages to Our Graduating Staff To Shayleece Graham Thank you for being an amazing 3rd year on the team. You rocked out your last year as and RA and i am excited for your next journey. Be great. -David Ndozi
To Abby Meert: Abby, We are so very proud of you! Your hard work and dedication have paid off and we're very excited for your opportunities that lie ahead. There is no doubt you will succeed wherever the road takes you! We love you so much... Mom and Dad
To Chelsea Ibezim: Congratul ations Che ls. I'm sup p , r lt e o k e u a er d M e o tt f o you and e To Charl v ’t y e n r o ld ything u've done an year I wou m t sh e h fr e r s u e o t e p m a st 4 years n we You have so proud of ’m . I ! Congrats!!! Whe st fa t h so e y b b y r fl i to g e h m a t ti e h d s e e o ct t a e d of you a future have ever exp e career but als g e ll co n d in ly I n 'm o t o me n to a shining to experien happy I get d ir e how far you’ve co w le tt li a g ce it with l! From bein g in e b you. p u d n e d just life in genera n a t u o o g l C ’l u o o n y g rats again know anks for h T . ! e b social butterfly! I to t n a e m e ’r u o y e k li st ju everyone’s boss ove you! L ! g n lo is Bella♡ th r fo being my friend Jackie Duke
Yoo wassup David. Thanks for coming in this year and being such an amazing role model for myself and the rest of the UV staff. You are kind, funny, hardworking, and your đ&#x;˜‚ laugh lights up the room. I know you are about to graduate so i wish you much success in the future boss man. If our paths cross again let’s catch up and go get wings. Lol, but seriously I love you man and more life to ya. Timothy Turner
To Kyla Thomas: Congratulations and continue to soar to the highest of your hopes and the most special places if your heart!
To Brandy McDonald-Johnson: Congratulations on everything you're setting Love Always, out to accomplish my sweetie! Meeting you Mom, Dad and Myles was very much unexpected, but I am so glad that God saw fit to put you in my : n o s life! I love you so much and I can't John y e l a H r u To o y our wait to see how far you go, I love you! ud of Y o . r n p r e y l h treme t Sout Ariel Lockett e are ex while a
W gone ments t ’ h n s i s l a p h m acco drive d n a k r o A! hard w ! Way to GAT ed unnotic elly K d n a u! Dad o Y e v o We L
To Sarah Daniels: We are so very proud of you! Congrats and good luck on your next adventure! We love you so very much! Dad and Mom
Abby Meert, I have truly enjoyed working with you these past five years (can you believe it has been that long?). Between our love for history, drive for continued learning, all things assessment, Harry Potter, attraction to Tom Hardy ( :) ), and game nights (I can't leave Josh's motto on this note), I have embraced you more than that of a colleague but of a close friend. I hope we can continue to have hour long conversations about the most random things when you move to Iowa. Josh, John, Mary August, and I will miss you as you embark on your next adventure. Your biggest advocate, Katie C. Fester
: To Rachael Lewis
mazing 4 a n a on s on ti la tu Congra d of you. Go ou r p so e r a e W years! ce and grace en d fi n co h it w d r forwa on your life! ll ca e th l il lf fu ou as y ys! We love you alwa
To Kacey Smith: I am so excited to see where your next chapter takes you! Congratula tions Kacey! With love, Kimberly Bradley
on Mom, Dad, Camer
Sarah Daniels, Alexa Blanding, Trey Rhone, Kate Hughes, Kacey Smith, Eli Miller, and Madi Davis::
sure. We are ea m d n o ey b d ve lo Alyssa - You are will make a u o Y . ts en m sh li p m o so proud of your acc le"! great "Double Eag d strong when n a st d n a s es cc su r u "Celebrate yo uds come in, o cl rm o st e th en h w adversity hits, for e small birds take th e il h w r a so S E the EAGL ill cover." Napoleon H To Trey Rhone: Keep spreading joy and love as you embark on your next chapter. Congratulations Trey! With love, Kimberly Bradley
Thank you for a wonderful year in Freedom’s Landing. Each of you had a positive impact on me and my transition to Georgia Southern University. I have been honored to witness your growth this year. Each of you rose to the occasion to make this year shine. You are all off to wonderful things and I am so thankful to be in your corner as you continue to grow and flourish! Things you did: THAT! Always remember, you are a lifesaver in all five flavors! With Love, Claudine McKinney
To Kate Hughes: From the day I met you I knew you were going to do great things. I look forward to seeing where this next chapter takes you. Congratulations Kate! With love, Kimberly Bradley
To Grads from Ca sey:
For Racheal Lewis: Congratulations Rachael! We are so proud of you! We love you and we have faith in your future. You have already proven yourself to be so much more. It was indeed a pleasure watching you become the great person you are and are looking forward to seeing all that you will become. Love Dad eninger, To Ryann H ions! Congratulat b on your Excellent jo sis, and I Honor's the there are t a h t e r u s am in your great things future. x Christian Co
Sarah:
Thank you to all of our GRD's and Cen tral GA's for their hard works and dedication to University Housing th is past year. I wis h you the best of luck in you r future endeavors and know that you will do am azing things as you move forward. If you ev er need anything ple ase let me know. To Eli Miller:
We are going to miss you around here but are excited to see where life takes you next. Congratulations! With love, Kimberly Bradley
your next r o f d e it c x miss you. I am so e ly t a e r g l il t w w chapter bu and yeeha s n io t la u t a Congr brother! y ly Bradle r e b im K , e With lov
David, Sapheria, Miranda, Ariel, Abby, and Kaitlyn: Thank you so much for all you have done this year. Each of you brought unique perspectives and personalities to the team. I appreciate To Abby each of you so much and I am so excited to see where Hey Abby! Thank you for absolutely your path leads and all of everything you’ve done your future success. for me this year! You Congratulations! are a phenomenal
mith: S d e r F To ngs to o l e b e r u “The fut believe in o those wh of their ty the beau s” dream ays, w l A e v Lo Val s i S g i B
To Madi Davis: s you so Madi, I will mis o proud much but I am s of you! With love, y Kimberly Bradle
human being and the world's best supervisor:) -Hope
Never stop shining! Love, Claudine McKinney
on: To Haley Johns ley on a H s n o ti la tu a r Cong ents! m h s li p m o c c a r you to see it a w 't n a c e W takes e r tu u f r u o y e r whe proud y r e v e r a e W . you and love you! Gran Gran &
Pap
To Alexa Blanding: I am honored to know you and will miss you! Congratulations Alexa! With love, Kimberly Bradley
To Kaitlyn: I am so thankful for the opportunity to have worked alongside you these past two years. I enjoyed getting to know and work with you more closely the summer of 2019 while you were the ACUHO-I intern for the Residence Life office. I value the support, guidance, positive attitude, and care you gave our staff members and students. I hope you stay in touch, because I know your future is bright!
To Haley Johnson:
-Katie C. Fester
Haley, We are SO proud of your accomplishments and hard work at GSU! Can't wait to see what the future holds. I love you, Mom
ephens: t S y le s n i A o T sley, n i A s n o i t la u Congrat of you! d u o r p o s m Ia With love, ley Kimberly Brad
To Sapheria
To Alexa Blanding: Congratu lations on your won derful achieveme nt Alexa. I am so pro ud of you ! All my lo ve, Mom
Have a Great Summer Y’all!
Staff Signatures, Messages, Pictures, & Moments of Pride
To CP Staff from Taraya Bratton I have truly enjoyed being an RA. Thanks for the wonderful opportunities from my supervisors and support from my team members. -Love Ray Ray To staff of UV You all are amazing, and I wish I could have finish out this semester with you all! As a team we have grown tremendously, but as individuals you all have out done yourselves! Thank you for the help, motivation, and vulnerability that you all have shown me this year. Peace and Love - Markenzia Webb
Thanks for all of your hard work this year!
I hope you all enjoy your summer and are staying safe! Ariel Alston : )
Thank you to EVeryone on staff for making EV the best home for my third year. <3 -Lots of love, Brandon Long
To CP from Frederick Smith Thanks for always being an awesome staff and supporting me and each other. #CPLoveForever
4
Army ROTC Moments of Pride Our first floor meeting was incorporated into the ROTC welcome weekend! We established partnerships between Residence Education, R.O.T.C., and the Office of Student Wellness and Health Promotion. We regularly had 75% participation in our breakfast programs!
To our Army ROTC Community, We were so glad to welcome you into our Southern Pines community this year, and are grateful for the relationships that this community has built with one another. We loved getting to know you and finding ways to intentionally support your development as leaders in R.O.T.C. and in the military. I think it goes without saying, one of our most successful and enjoyable programs was our traditional breakfasts post- P.T. We loved taking this time to check in, provide a little education on nutrition, and help you start your Friday off on the right foot! While this semester did not end how we planned, we are proud of the people you have become this year. We are grateful for your humor, genuine desire to do good, and your continued service and commitment to our community. We know that you will be successful in all of your endeavors and wish you nothing but the best in the future. We are proud of you! -
Kaitlyn
I have truly enjoyed being an RA. Thanks for the wonderful opportunities from my supervisors and support from my team members. -Love Ray Ray
Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go get wings ~Tim
To My Global Crossroads RAs Sharon and Alex, Thank you both for an absolutely wonderful year! I wouldn’t have ever wanted to have two others folks to take all of the mountainous highs and valley lows with. Your positivity, flexibility, and hard work allowed this community to grow and create traditions. Each of you should be extremely proud of what you offered and were able to give to this community, your relationships and this community vibe is something we won’t ever be able to recreate. Thank you for your work and don’t be a stranger! With love,
Natasha
Thank you all for such a wonderful year and amazing memories! Natasha Gabara
Central Grads/ RELT Thank you for the great experiences during my masters program! I have enjoyed getting to know you all! : ) Ariel Alston
Lab & Eagle Educators Field Trip to the Jacksonville Museum!
"Thanks for the memories and all the great times. My 3 years working in university housing was amazing and the people I met along the way made each moment forever lasting. Keep Moving Forward and hope to see you later. Always and Forever ~Fred
Honors Fam Manuel, Maddy, Meg, Wes, and Ryann, Thank you each so much for all of the work and ingenuity that you brought to our team this year. I was so blessed to be given a group that cares so much about each other and the students, every day I felt challenged by you to find ways to continue engaging and supporting our students. Thank you for always showing me that we can always work harder, think more creatively, and ultimately center people’s humanity as we serve them. You each were a blessing in my life and I hope that we can continue to connect over time. Stay strong, stay healthy, and don’t be a stranger. With love, Natasha
Honors Moments of Pride Programming this year was extremely fun! Our RAs hosted the second annual Conspiracy Theory Challenge, multiple “Cooking With Profs” and Coffee Chat series, and a whole bunch of cool socials. Our RAs took it a step further and completed awesome bulletin boards throughout the year as well! Our Peer Mentor Ryann was always thinking about new and special ways to connect with residents! Maddy and Meg worked really hard with our Student Advisory Board throughout the year, which hosted many socials and also grew new Eagles into student leaders. Wes took our Coffee Chat series and assisted in turning it into a great opportunity for recent alumni of Georgia Southern or the LLC to come back and share some lessons learned to our first year Honors LLC participants. Manuel continued to grow our Cooking with Profs series and brought in many faculty and staff from across campus to teach residents some kitchen skills, while also connecting over a meal.
Innovation - Caleb, Chanz, and Chris Thank you for an incredible year working together to make the best experience for each resident in the Innovation Living Learning Community. I am so grateful for your patience and willingness to try something new for each event. Thank you for being dedicated to the growth of your community and helping each student be successful in CEC. I look forward to seeing the incredible things that each of you will provide to the field of Engineering and Information Technology. I got extremely lucky to work with a strong, dedicate, and innovative group of leaders. Go forth and continue to be innovative. The world needs more leaders like you! All the best! Verva Jean
Innovation Moments of Pride 13 teams competed in the 2nd Annual Egg Drop Competition with two teams tying for ďŹ rst place! Innovation and The Lab LLC collaborated to host the ďŹ rst annual Women in STEM panel that included faculty members from with in the College of Science and Mathematics and the College of Engineering and Computing Innovation sponsored Coffee and Conversations with the Provost, Dr. Carl Reiber
Around here, however, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors, and doing new thingsâ&#x20AC;Ś and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths. - Walt Disney