What is your "why"?

Hey! I'm Amanda Allen, the director of student success. My "why" is deep-seated with my family of educators and being raised with an understanding of the importance and value of education in any form. As a counselor, I've experienced how one positive relationship can profoundly impact the course of an individual's life. I see this daily in the relationships that our student success coaches build with their students. I believe it's a privilege to lead our coaches in a common purpose of empowering students to achieve their goals by recognizing and using their strengths.

What is your style and philosophy?

My philosophy, based on my counselor background, is to understand experiences and concerns to empower students to become self-aware and learn insight into their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I seek to advocate for each student and support the development of their strengths and skills. I believe everyone has the ability to learn, change and grow in order to experience more purposeful, healthier and happier lives. I also hope to foster a safe, welcoming environment for learning where our students and staff can thrive.

Education

• BA, Criminology, North Carolina State University
• M.Ed., Clinical Mental Health Counseling, N.C. State University

Favorites

• Movies/shows: "Psych" is my favorite show. You know that's right.  
• Books/authors: I'm an avid reader. While I enjoy reading almost any genre, thrillers are my favorite. I'm always up for a good book recommendation.

What is your "why"?

One of the many reasons why I enjoy my role as student success coach is because I can relate to many students and their educational journeys. I started off at a community college, where I secured a work-study position to help fund my education. I changed my major twice before transferring to a four-year institution. I learned firsthand that with proper support, hard work and determination, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, you can reach your goals.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

I am a fan of the "appreciative advising" model. Disarm is my favorite phase and, in my opinion, the most important. My goal is to serve students with excellence. This includes creating an environment where students feel comfortable, valued and empowered.

Education

• BS, Communication, SUNY Brockport

Favorites

• Music/musicians: I enjoy all genres of music, especially smooth jazz.
• Food: I have a sweet tooth. Anything from Wegman's bakery will do!
• Hobbies/interests: I enjoy swimming and Zumba!

What is your "why"?

Hello, my name is Zach. As a first-generation college student, I understand the challenges that students can face on their educational journeys. My personal experience has shown me the importance of having a strong support network to navigate these challenges. That's why I'm here as your success coach – to be the support you need. My "why" is simple: I want to partner with you to help you maximize your potential and achieve your educational and career goals.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My approach is student-centered, rooted in an asset-based perspective. I believe in authenticity, proactivity and a holistic growth mindset. I'll be with you every step of the way, guiding you to develop your strengths, study effectively and set and reach your goals.

I'm excited to embark on this journey with you. My goal is to support you in your holistic development, not just academically, but as a well-rounded individual. Remember, it's never too late to pursue your dreams, and I'm here to partner with you every step of the way!

Education

• BA, History, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
• M.Ed., Higher Education (concentration in Student Affairs Administration), UNC-Greensboro

Favorites

• Hobbies/interests: I love exploring new cultures through travel, spending quality time with friends and family, and continuously learning. I am also passionate about personal development, especially as it relates to health and wellness.
• Food: Some of my favorite foods are Thai, Mexican and sushi. Let me know your favorite places to eat!

Sarah has previously worked as a college readiness program manager for an educational nonprofit, Leap Year, in Atlanta, and as a Teach For America member in Charlotte. She holds an MS in Educational Studies from Johns Hopkins University, a graduate Certificate in Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a BA in History from North Carolina State University. Sarah is passionate about education and students, and she is excited to support students as they grow and learn at Wake Tech.

What is your "why"?

Hi, my name is Michael Eure, and there are many reasons why serving as a student success coach provides rewarding experiences for me. I have observed great personal transformations among those on the college journey and witnessed all types of students excel academically, culturally and professionally, including many from non-traditional (adult learner), underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My style is to function as an open communicator. I have an associate in applied science degree and often can relate with some of the issues that students may be experiencing. I strive to carefully listen to what individuals are expressing during our meetings and other interactions.  After initial discussions, it is an enjoyable process to collaboratively develop individualized student success plans, including establishing goals and strategies, coupled with connecting individuals to strategically beneficial resources inside and outside of the college. I believe in "tapping into the power within" and actively encouraging students to participate in experiential learning, volunteering and leadership immersion opportunities.

Education

• BS, Computer Information Systems, Saint Augustine's University

Favorites

• Music/musicians: I like all types of music. "Ngiculela-Es Una Historia (I am Singing)" by Stevie Wonder is one of my favorites.
• Food: Seafood is my favorite. I also like a variety of international foods, including Jamaican, South American and Mediterranean dishes. If there is something interesting offered at food scenes, such as the International Festival, I might be interested in sampling.
• Hobbies/interests: I love history and culture and serve on several advisory boards, and it is exciting to incorporate students during the implementation of events. There are many connections between historical stories and current student experiences. For example, Congress enacted the First (1862) and Second (1890) Morrill Acts, which established land-grant colleges focusing on agriculture, mechanic arts (engineering) and military science. The technical and community colleges currently enroll students into many skilled trades (mechanic arts) programs, which originated at the land-grant colleges.

What is your "why"?

Hello, my name is Holly Fitch, and I am a success coach. My "why" is that I want to assist students to become the best they can be and help them reach their educational and personal goals. Being a student success coach allows me to help students in ways I could not otherwise achieve.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

I like to look at life holistically, and this carries over to my meetings with students. I like to figure out the big picture through active listening, asking the right questions and meaningful dialogue that helps me to serve my students holistically. We need self-care to include mental health, emotional health, physical health, environmental health, spiritual health and social needs.

Education

• BS, Public Health, Eastern Connecticut State University
• M.Ed., Career and Technical Education, University of South Florida

Favorites

• Music/musicians: Eclectic, I like many types of music.
• Books/authors: All, I love to read both fiction and non-fiction.
• Hobbies/interests: Kayaking, gardening and spending time with my children

What is your "why"?

Hi, my name is Enrique Rodriguez, and as a student success coach, my "why" is deeply rooted in a passion for helping students unlock their full potential and achieve their academic and personal goals. I believe that every student has unique talents, abilities and aspirations, and my purpose is to empower them to realize and harness these strengths.

My "why" also stems from the profound impact that education can have on individuals and society as a whole. I am driven by the belief that, when students succeed, they not only improve their own lives but also contribute to building a brighter future for their communities and the world. I see my role as a catalyst for positive change, helping students navigate challenges, develop essential skills and cultivate a growth mindset that will serve them well throughout their lives.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My coaching style and philosophy have an approach that aims to empower individuals to reach their full potential. Some key elements of my coaching style and philosophy are goal-oriented, empowerment and active listening.

Education

• BA, Architecture, La Salle University (Bogota, Colombia)

Favorites

• Music/musicians: The 80s is my era of music
• Movies/shows: All the sci-fi movies and "Suits" as a show
• Hobbies/interests: Soccer is my passion

What is your "why"?

Greetings! I'm Ashley D. Wheeler, and I'm thrilled to be a student success coach. My journey in education began years ago when I witnessed the first student I recruited graduate and proudly stride across the stage to receive a diploma. That moment ignited my passion for education, as I realized that I had discovered my "why." Every day, knowing that I have a hand in shaping someone's future fuels my dedication to this work. What brings me the greatest joy is staying in touch with my students as they continue their journey and hearing about all the remarkable achievements they accomplish!

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

As a first-generation college graduate, I've gained a unique perspective on the challenges students face when navigating their education journey, especially without the guidance of someone familiar with the process. My philosophy is to become that support for students, offering advice and direction to help them continue toward their goals.

This means my coaching style is one of understanding the person first – what motivates them and what challenges them. Then, as we navigate through this process, my goal is to teach them how to be their own navigator and to empower them to confidently move forward through their educational and personal lives.

Education

• BA, Communication – Electronic Media/Journalism and PR, Concord University
• MS, Management and Leadership, Western Governors University (in progress)

Favorites

• Movies/shows: "NCIS" is my favorite show (Team McGee), "Back to the Future" is my go-to film, and anything with Tom Hiddleston will always be at the top of my list!
• Hobbies/interests: I have always loved traveling and finding places that only "the locals" know about. I get a thrill out of understanding how movies and TV are made, so I adore sitting down and watching a good behind-the-scenes documentary. Finally, as a former cast member, Disney and spending time there will always have a special place in my heart.

What is your "why"?

Hi, my name is Erica. As a first-generation college student who embarked on my educational journey here at Wake Tech, I discovered a passion for guiding and supporting fellow students in their pursuit of academic excellence and personal growth. My own experiences have shaped my commitment to helping college students successfully transition into higher education, empowering them to achieve both their short-term and long-term goals.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My coaching style is strengths-based-focused and having a growth mindset. My mission is to help students identify their strengths in the classroom, overcome adversity and thrive in their college journey.

Education

• BSW, University of North Carolina at Wilmington
• MSW, UNC-Wilmington

Favorites

• Food: Some of my favorite foods are Italian and Mexican.
• Hobbies/interests: Some of my favorite hobbies are spending time with my family and friends, going to the beach and checking out what's new in the theater.