Housing & Residence Life Staff Profiles 2023

RICHARD CLARK

Executive Director for Housing

Richard Clark is the Executive Director at Old Dominion University, leading the area of Housing.

He earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago, a Master of Arts from Eastern Michigan University (EMU), and a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communications with Minors in Psychology & Business Administration from Northern Michigan University (NMU).

Rich joined the ODU Housing & Residential LIfe team in November 2022. Karla and Rich are empty nesters and spend a lot of our free time at college events, hiking, trail riding in their jeep, model building, time on the ocean, visiting with their daughter who is a Senior at Regent University, and hanging out with their three cats (Ally, Rocky and Panther). Rich is very excited about being part of the fabric of Old Dominion University, Norfolk and the surrounding community.

DONNA WILLIAMS

She/Her

Senior Administrative Assistant

Donna Williams is Assistant to the Associate Dean of Students & Director for Business Operations for Housing & Residence Life.

She is a graduate of Norfolk State University (B.S. Administration) and a graduate of Tabernacle Theological Seminary (Masters in Religious Education, MRE).

She has worked at ODU for 12 years, and previously at the Virginia Department of Health for 25 years, Virginia Department of World Trade for 4 years and Eastern Virginia Medical School for 8 years. Outside of work, she enjoys teaching, and spending time with her family. Her hobbies include reading, word games, puzzles and traveling.

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

CARRIE DURAN

She/Her

Associate Director for Finance

Carrie Duran is the Associate Director for Finance for Housing & Residence Life.

She graduated from Purdue (B.S. Psychology; M/s/ Instructional Design).

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her sons and friends, as well as outdoor adventures.

AMANDA MARTIN

She/Her

Associate Director for Business Operations

Amanda Martin is the Assistant Director for Business Operations for Housing & Residence Life overseeing assignments.

She received her undergraduate degree in Communications at Old Dominion University and graduate degree in Management at the University of Maryland (GC)

Her Student Affairs experience includes Graduate Admissions Academic Program Specialist (Maryland) and RLH Assignment Coordinator (VCU).

ZACH HARRISON

He/Him

Assignments Manager

Zach Harrison is the Assignments Manager for Housing & Residence Life.

He graduated from East Carolina University (B.A. Psychology) and from Eastern Michigan University (M.A. Higher Education).

Zach grew up in Eastern North Carolina in a small town called Richlands, NC. Zach has worked in Housing at several institutions including East Carolina University, Eastern Michigan University, Xavier University, and Virginia Commonwealth University. Outside of work, Zach enjoys going for bike rides, playing video games and board games, and taking his dogs, Beau and Finn, for a walk.

MARGIE GODFREY

She/Her

Business Operations Manager

Margarie

She completed her B. S. degree at Norfolk State University and received an MA from Grand Canyon University.

She has been with the state of Virginia for over ten years, all within higher education. She lives in Chesapeake but grew up in Richmond, VA. She is a child of the 70’s, teen of the 80’s and is older than ShowTime, BET, MTV, HBO & Cinemax! Outside of work, Margie is a single mom who writes poetry, and teaches Bible classes. She is currently working on writing a women’s devotional book featuring her poetry and is willing to offer a listening ear when needed.

(Margie) Godfrey is the Business Operations Manager for Housing & Residence Life.

SHENELL WHITE

She/Her

Fiscal Services Manage

Shenell White is the Fiscal Services Manager for Housing & Residence Life.

She is a graduate of Tidewater Community College with an Associate of Science degree with a major in General Studies.

Shenell has been with Old Dominion University for 36 years, 32 years with the Finance Office and the last 4 with HRL. Shenell has been married to her husband for 40 years (August 2021), is the mother of 3 adult children, 1 son in law, 1 daughter in law and 7 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandaughter! Outside of work, Shenell’s major hobby and enjoyment is her family.

SHREE' HOLMAN

She/Her

Fiscal Technician for Accounts Receivable

Shree’ Holman is the Fiscal Technician-Accounts Receivable of Business Operations for Housing & Residence Life.

She is graduate of Thomas Nelson Community College with an A.S. in Social Science and is currently enrolled to receive an A.A.S. in Human Services. She’ll hold a certification for Substance Abuse Counseling in May 2022.

Shree’ has worked in student affairs in Housing and Residence Life for five years while at Old Dominion University. She additionally worked for the City of Hampton for three years and in hospitality for over ten years while holding several financial positions. Outside of work, Shree’ is a mother of two and enjoys traveling, spending time with family, the outdoors, listening to music, being adventurous and shopping. Her hometown is (Westchester County) Mount Vernon, New York although she’s been living in Hampton, Virginia since 2006. She is committed to the success of students and enjoys helping people. Shree’ is truly dedicated to her work ethic and family.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

PAULD. POSENER

He/Him

Director for Administrative Services

Paul D. Posner is the Director for Administrative Services for Housing & Residence Life.

Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from the State University of New York, College at Buffalo Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in History from the State University of New York at Fredonia.

Paul is a recent addition to the Old Dominion Housing and Residence Life team, joining the University in December 2022. He has served in various capacities within the Housing and Residence Life professional field for close to 30 years. He is originally from the Western New York area and most recently was living in North Carolina. He is a big fan of the Buffalo Bills and never misses a game! He enjoys learning about history, travelling, cooking, and spending time with his family and their cute little dog, Nutmeg.

CAROLINA RODRIGUE OSPINA

She/Her

Assistant Director for Communications

Carolina Ospina-Rodriguez is the Assistant Director for Communications for Housing & Residence Life.

She earned a Master of Arts in Lifespan and Digital Communications from Old Dominion University, a specialized degree in Marketing of Services from Universidad Militar Nueva Granada in Colombia, and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing & Advertising from Universidad Politecnico Grancolombiano in Colombia.

Carolina joined HRL in April 2022. She has worked in Communications for Student Engagement & Enrollment Services since 2021 and in social media for the Arts & Letters College since 2019. Before that, she worked in marketing and communications for 11 years for a Health and Welfare Funds Organization in Bogota, Colombia. She loves spending time with her daughters Juanita and Salome, visiting new Virginia places and teaching them Spanish. The beach is her favorite place; flowers and coffee are her best partners to keep her connected to her country.

TERRY DURKIN

He/Him

Facilities Manager

Terry Durkin is the Facilities Manager for Housing & Residence Life.

He is an alumnus of Old Dominion University with his B.S. Business Administration and a concentration in Finance.

Terry is a past Vice President of the ODU Alumni Association. He has been with Housing & Residence Life since 1988. He has been deeply involved in the planning, development and construction of the University Village, the Residences at Runte Quad and most recently Hugo A. Owens House. He has also planned and implemented multiple renovation projects. Outside of work, Terry is married and has a son. He enjoys supporting ODU Athletics, coaching and playing golf.

RESIDENCEEDUCATION

RESIDENCEEDUCATION

KRYSTAL ALLEN

She/Her

Director for Residen Education

Dr. Krystal N. Allen serves as the Director of Residence Education for Housing & Residence Life.

She earned a B.A. in communication at East Carolina University, a M.S. Ed. in educational leadership from Old Dominion University, and a Ph.D. in higher education administration from Bowling Green State University.

Her professional background includes experience with Housing and Residential Life, Leadership Development, graduate student recruitment and retention initiatives, and Student Conduct. Prior to returning to Old Dominion University, Krystal worked at Temple University, North Carolina Central University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Barton College. She is an active member of NASPA and serves as Co-Chair Elect for NASPA’s Womxn in Student Affairs Knowledge Community. An active sister of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Krystal is also a member Go On Girl Book Club, one of the nation’s largest book club for women of the African diaspora. When not working, Krystal enjoys traveling, cooking, reading and spending time with family and friends.

MELISSA OVERTON

She/Her

Associate Director for Residence Education

Melissa Overton is an Assistant Direc Residence Education for Housing & R

She obtained her undergrad degree at Georgetown College in Georgetown, KY (B.A. English; B.A. Psychology) and her Master’s of Science in Education degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs at Baylor University in Waco, TX. Melissa is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Higher Education at Old Dominion University.

Melissa has worked in several housing programs including Baylor University and Virginia Tech. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending time with her husband, Drew, her two kids, Charlotte and James, and dog, Ruby.

PACHIA MARTIN

She/Her

Assistant Director of Academic Initiatives and Assessment

Pachia Martin is the Assistant Dir Academic Initiatives and Assessm & Residence Life.

She holds a B.S of Psychology from Ripon College and a M.S. in Counseling and Human Development from Radford University.

She worked as a Residence Hall Director at Radford University while a graduate student and a Residence Education Coordinator at Longwood University before coming to ODU. Pachia’s favorite role in life is being a mom and a wife. She enjoys gardening, cooking, baking, and spending time outdoors.

STEPHEN TANG-NIAN

He/Him

Assistant Director for Residence Education

Stephen Tang-Nian is currently the Assistant Director for Resident Education for Housing & Residence Life.

He earned his Masters of Education Administration from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University and a Bachelor of Science from Towson University.

Stephen is within his first year working at ODU and prior worked at the University of Delaware and a corporate retirement planning company. A resident of Virginia Beach, Stephen enjoys being near the water, exploring new areas and spending time with family & friends. He also enjoys traveling and is always up for getting tea/lunch to get to know new faces.

MALLORY GRIEST

She/Her

Assistant Director for Residence Education

Mallory Griest is currently th for Resident Education for H Life.

She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Messiah College and a M.S. in Counseling with a specialization in College Student Personnel from Shippensburg University.

Prior to joining the Housing & Residence Life team, Mallory worked as a Residence Director at Messiah College and as an Area Coordinator at Dickinson College. In her freetime, Mallory enjoys hiking and exploring state and national parks, playing all types of games (board, card, video, sports and more), and spending time with friends and meeting new people!

PHILLIP CANNON

He/Him

Residence Hall Directo

Phillip Cannon is the current Residence Hall Director for Powhatan Apartments for Housing & Residence Life.

Born and raised in eastern North Carolina, Phillip received his B.A. in History at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and attended Clemson University where he completed his M.Ed. in Student Affairs.

Prior to joining the Housing & Residence Life staff at Old Dominion University, Phillip worked for Housing at a small liberal arts college for three years, gaining experience with Student Recreation and Intramurals, Summer Camps, Late Night Programming, and Facilities, among other special projects. Graduate student experiences include work for Student Accessibility Services, Student Conduct, and English Language workshop facilitation. Outside of the office, Phillip enjoys recreational video games, multiple video streaming platforms, audiobook lecture series from the local digital library, and long walks around both the Norfolk Botanical Gardens and the Virginia Zoo.

FELICIA HAYNES

She/Her

Residence Hall Directo

Felicia Haynes, Residence Hall Director of Gresham Hall, Nusbaum Apartments, and Foundation House, is a student-centered, accountable, social and professional development, and welcoming higher education professional with experiences in student conduct and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

She is a graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) with a BA in Accounting and Information Systems and George Mason University with a MA in Higher Education and Student Development.

Passionate about learning and understanding cultures and identities, Felicia creates an environment for students to be their authentic selves with confidence. Quality time is an important love language to Felicia, so if you want to meet, please reach out. Felicia is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and her home will always be Portsmouth, VA.

ELEANOR RITZMAN

Residence Hall Director She/Her

Eleanor Ritzman is the current Re for Whitehurst Hall for Housing & Residence Life.

She is a proud May 2021 graduate of ODU’s Higher Education program earning her Master of Science in Education.

Eleanor went to Virginia Commonwealth University for undergrad and found a passion for student development through her time as a Resident Assistant and Student Orientation Leader. She hopes to one day be a Dean of Students. Outside of work, Eleanor spends time with her family and friends in Chesapeake, VA. She loves spending time with her cat, revising her island in Animal Crossing, and getting to be outside as much as possible. Eleanor is happy to chat with you about her experience living in Hampton Roads and all the great things the 757 has to offer.

RODERICK WILLIAMS

He/Him

Residence Hall Director

Roderick Williams is currently the Residence Hall Director for the University Village Apartments for Housing & Residence Life.

He earned a B.A. in Geography and a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from The University of Memphis.

Prior to joining Housing and Residence Life at ODU, Roderick served as a Residence Life Coordinator at The University of Memphis He also served in the role of Resident Advisor, Conference Assistant, and Graduate Assistant After completing his master's degree, Roderick transitioned from Residence Life and Housing and began providing behavioral - clinical support for students within the special population for a Charter School Network (K-12) Roderick subsequently began providing behavioral and clinical support for adults with severe mental health diagnoses and severe intellectual disabilities under the Tennessee Department of Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities He began working as a Resident Hall Director at Old Dominion University on July 25, 2022 Roderick is an active member of The Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc , and in his spare time he enjoys playing tennis

BRIANA MORRIS

She/Her

Residence Hall Directo

Briana Morris is currently the Resident Hall Director for Dominion House and France House for Housing & Residence Life.

She graduated from Radford University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and is currently pursuing her Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing with a concentration in Nonfiction at Old Dominion University.

Briana is from Richmond, Virginia and her goal is to become a college professor. This is her first year working in housing and she has found this experience enjoyable as it has given her the proper skills that she’ll need in Higher Education. During her free time, she enjoys curating new work towards her writing, reading, traveling, and watching television. She is a huge fan of Marvel and Law & Order: SVU.

ANGELA PEZZELLA

She/Her

Residence Hall Director

Angela Pezzella is currently the Resident Hall Director for Virginia House and Ireland House for Housing & Residence Life.

Angela earned her Master of Arts and Educational Specialist degrees from James Madison University, and a Bachelor of Science from the College of William and Mary. She is currently finishing her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at the George Washington University.

Angela moved to Norfolk from Washington DC with her two cats - who are her pride and joy. Angela enjoys music, art, reading, traveling, and going on adventures. Angela also loves to get moving outside, enjoying water sports and running, and she also practices yoga.

ANNALA BURNO

She/Her

Assistant Residence H Director

Annala Burno is currently the Assistant Hall Director for Scotland House and England House for Housing & Residence Life.

She graduated from Old Dominion University in May 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology. She is currently enrolled at ODU as a graduate student in the Higher Education Leadership Program with a concentration in Student Affairs.

Annala previously worked as a Resident Assistant for Housing & Residence Life at ODU for three years and a desk receptionist for one year. She is from King George, Virginia, a small town northeast of mond. Outside of school and work, Annala enjoys playing rugby, hiking, going to the beach, and spending time with her dog, Sadie.

DEJUANNA GILLISPIE

She/Her

Assistant Residence H Director

Dejuanna Gillispie (she/her/hers) is currently the Assistant Hall Director for the University Village for Housing & Residence Life.

She is a first-year graduate student from Hampton, Virginia pursing an M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership – Higher Education. She attended Radford University where she majored in Interdisciplinary Studies.

At Radford University, Dejuanna served in various leadership roles such as President and Director of Diversity and Education for Radford’s Student Programming, Peer Instructor for New Student Orientation, and Student Assistant for the Leadership Program. In her free time, she enjoys watching Netflix, eating chipotle, and wearing crocs!

RAVEN JACKSON

She/Her

Assistant Residence Hall Director

Raven Jackson is currently the A Director for Whitehurst for Hou Life.

She graduated from Valdosta State University (VSU) with her B.S. in Psychology in May 2020. She is currently in the Mental Health Clinical Counseling program at Old Dominion University, pursuing her License in Professional Counseling.

At Radford University, Dejuanna served in various leadership roles such as President and Director of Diversity and Education for Radford’s Student Programming, Peer Instructor for New Student Orientation, and Student Assistant for the Leadership Program. In her free time, she enjoys watching Netflix, eating chipotle, and wearing crocs!

AUSTIN MOORE

He/Him

Assistant Residence Hall Director

Austin Moore is currently the Assis Director for Powhatan Apartments Residence Life.

He graduated from UNC Greensboro with a B.A. in Political Science. Currently Austin is a graduate student in the Educational Leadership program on the leadership and administration track in higher education.

Outside of school, Austin enjoys painting, spending time with friends, and watching movies.

ELITA RUSHIN

She/Her

Assistant Residence Ha Director

Elita Rushin is currently the Assistant Hall Director for Virginia House and Ireland House for Housing & Residence Life.

She graduated of Norfolk State University (B.A. in Psychology) and is currently a first-year student in the MSEd Higher Education (Student Affairs Track) at Old Dominion University.

Elita grew up in Chester, Virginia, and outside of work, enjoys coaching cheer, going out with friends, and being active in her sorority.

ANNABELL SOWA

She/Her

Assistant Residence H Director

Annabelle Sowah is currently the Assistant Hall Director of Owens House for Housing & Residence Life.

She is a graduate of Kean University with a B.A. in Music and Psychology.

Annabelle previously worked as a Resident Assistant for two years at Kean University. On her off time, she enjoys art, interior decorating, baking, and singing. She is a huge Harry Potter fan and is a Ravenclaw.

INESYOON

She/Her

Assistant Residence Hall Director

Ines Yoon is currently the Assistan for Dominion House and France H Housing & Residence Life.

She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Science in 2019. She is currently pursuing her Masters of Science in Education in Higher Education at ODU.

Ines has worked in Residence Life, International Student Programs, and Dean of Students Offices. She enjoys interacting with students and listening to peoples stories. She likes to hang out with friends in various cities, visit coffee shops, try new foods, and make art. Fun fact, Ines has traveled to Mexico and then Chicago, Illinois with just one backpack.

BAXLEY ROBERTS

He/Him

Assistant Residence H Director

Baxley Roberts is currently the Assistant Hall Director for the University Village Apartments for Housing & Residence Life.

He holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. He is currently studying in the Master of Music Education program at Old Dominion University with a concentration in Wind Band Conducting.

Baxley was previously the Residence Manager at Samford University before teaching band and choir for Norfolk Public Schools during the 2021-2022 school year. While he is not working as the Assistant Hall Director of the University Village, Baxley enjoys performing in various music ensembles on campus and listening to live music around Norfolk. After graduating from ODU, he intends on continuing his work with secondary age students and in higher education.

TERRAE McCANN

He/Him

Assistant Residence Ha Director

Terrae E. McCann currently serves as the Assistant Hall Director of Rogers Hall for Housing & Residence Life.

He received his A.S. in social sciences from J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, his B.S. in psychology from Old Dominion University, and he expects to receive his MPH in health behavior and promotion in May 2023.

For the most of his academic career, he has been extensively involved in the community. Terrae is a qualified mental health professional who formerly served individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Terrae is also a co-founder and the director of community outreach and engagement for Student2Scholar, a non-profit that provides scholarship resources and services to youth. Terrae is a lifetime member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, an ardent vocalist, and a fan of all things competitive. In his spare time, he enjoys music, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

TALIYAH ROGERS

she/Her

Assistant Residence Hall Director

Taliyah recently joined the team and will serve as the Assistant Hall Director of Gresham Hall for Housing & Residence Life.

She got her B.S from ODU in Criminal Justice and Cybercrime and is currently pursuing a Cyber Risk Management certification and Cybersecurity Master's Degree starting this semester

She worked at Navy Federal for 2 years since graduation in 2020 and came right back to ODU for the AHD position. I was an RA at ODU in Whitehurst and Powhatan. In her downtime, she likes watching YouTube and or cooking.

KHALID BUESHI

He/Him

Night Desk Manager

Khalid Bueshi is the Night Shift Manager for Housing & Residence Life.

He is a graduate of Christopher Newport University with a B.A. in English.

Khalid worked with Residence Life Night Shift at CNU from sophomore year to graduation serving as a Front Desk Assistant and later as a Front Desk Assistant Coordinator of the Night Shift. He is from Suffolk, Virginia and in his free time enjoys reading (mostly Russian literature), collecting vinyl, gaming, and drinking coffee. Due to the night shift schedule, he more or less lives a nocturnal lifestyle on and off duty.

ROBYN BOYCE

She/Her

Graduate Assistant fo Training and Special Projects

Robyn Boyce is the Graduate Assistant for Training and Special Projects for Housing & Residence Life.

She graduated from Old Dominion University with her B.S. in Psychology in May 2021. She is currently in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s program at Old Dominion University, on the path to becoming a Couples Counselor.

Robyn enjoys singing, watching lots of TV shows, sleeping, and spending time with her family and friends.

DEMETRE' SOUTH

He/Him

Assistant Residence Hall Director

Demetre South is a Philadelp currently an Assistant Hall Dir Apartments.

While serving as a graduate assistant, he is also taking classes at Strome College of Business in pursuit of his Masters in Business Administration. Demetre graduated from Old Dominion University in May of 2022 with a Marketing major and a Communications minor. Throughout his journey as a Monarch he has served in a variety of leadership roles such as a Resident Assistant, Neighborhood Council Representative and various club organizational memberships.

Aside from housing, Demetre also spends his time working with sneaker vendors such as Footlocker Incorporated where he enjoys learning and understanding the retail industry. In Demetre’s free time he enjoys listening to podcasts and collecting sneakers. After graduation, Demetre intends to use his experience and skills learned to work for a corporation in the retail industry.