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Haya Ajjan, Assistant Professor of Management
A resident of Huntersville, N.C., Haya comes to Elon after teaching at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where she obtained her MBA and Ph.D. She and husband Mahdi have a 15-month-old son, Alexander, and two pets, Cody and Coconut. When she’s not working, Haya enjoys spending time with her family, hiking and reading.
Holly R. Anderson, Campus Kitchen Project Coordinator
Holly joins Elon after working for Kalamazoo Communities in Schools in Kalamazoo, Mich. She has degrees in human development and social relations and enjoys gardening and exploring Burlington in her free time with her dog, Beau, a border collie mix. Holly says she was attracted to Elon by its supportive environment.
Sadie Allen, Housekeeper
An Elon native, Sadie says she decided to join Elon’s staff because of its lovely work atmosphere and nice people. She enjoys gardening and walking in her free time.
John H. Barnhill, Assistant Vice President for University Advancement
An Elon alum, John has a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He returns to Elon after working for Salem State College. A Lexington, Mass., native, John lives with his wife, Amy, their two daughters, Grace, 9, and Lily, 7, and their dog, Fergus. When he’s not working, John enjoys playing racquetball.
Steven Bednar, Instructor in Economics
A native of Placentia, Calif., Steven recently obtained a Ph.D. from Yale University. He and wife Dora Gicheva have two pets, Vinnie and Sophie. He was attracted to Elon by its reputation on teaching and scholarship. He enjoys cooking and playing guitar in his free time.
Burney Lee Bryant, Shuttle bus Operator
For Burney, who will be driving a Biobus part-time, Elon is a great place to work. The Garland, N.C., native is married to Linda. The couple has two grown children, Candace and Steve. Burney likes to spend his free time in his garden.
Kenneth L. Butler, Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach
Kenneth comes to Elon from Davidson College. He holds a master’s degree from East Carolina University and has two grown children, Kathleen, 20, and Daniel, 22.
Kaitlin L. Carlin, Admissions Counselor for Campus Visit
Kaitlin says she decided to join Elon’s staff because she wanted to share with others the sense of community she experienced at Elon during her years as an undergraduate student. Originally from Williamsburg, Va., Kaitlin worked for University Guide before returning to her alma mater. She enjoys cooking and reading in her spare time.
Justin L. Chandler, Electrician
Justin joins Elon’s staff after working for the City of Burlington. The volunteer fireman and Caswell County native lives with his wife, Amy, and their pets, which include a boxer, chickens and turkeys. In his free time, Justin enjoys hunting, fishing and playing golf.
John McCallister, Assistant Strength Coach
Attracted by Elon’s beautiful campus and friendly people, John comes to Elon after working for West Virginia University and Mississippi State University. A native of Ona, W.Va., John and wife Jennifer have two daughters, Emma, 3, and Ava, 1, and two dogs, Max and Maddie. John likes to spend his spare time playing with his children.
Jeff Carpenter, Assistant Professor of Education
Jeff was attracted to Elon by its emphasis on engaged learning as well as the school of education’s vision and energy. A native of Seattle, he holds an English degree from Rice University, an M.Ed. from Harvard University, and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Virginia. He and wife Shabnam Victoria Murad have two dogs, Leili and Maribel. In his free time, Jeff likes playing soccer, going to the gym, traveling and studying languages.
Claudia Condrey, Assistant Director of Teaching and Learning Technologies
A native of Shelby, N.C., Claudia holds a degree in public policy analysis from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she worked in the School of Medicine before coming to Elon. She has two dogs, Maya and Parker, and enjoys soccer, camping and running. She said she’s excited to work within Elon’s close-knit community.
Carolyn Culbertson, Assistant Professor of Philosophy
Carolyn says she was attracted to Elon by its emphasis on integrated learning, the “great philosophy department” and the school’s focus on global citizenship. She comes to Elon from Eugene, Ore., where she obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Oregon. She also holds a philosophy degree from Oglethorpe University. She lives with partner Miles Hentrup.
Alethea Duncan, Instructor in Chemistry
Alethea, a native of Miami, Fla., says she came to Elon looking for an opportunity to work in an institution that focuses on teaching and student experience. She holds a degree in chemistry from Johns Hopkins University and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry at Duke University. In her free time, Alethea enjoys dancing, exercising and photography.
Dan Evans, Assistant Professor of Physics
A native of Cornwall, United Kingdom, Dan holds a master’s in physics from Durham University, U.K., and a Ph.D. in astrophysics from the University of Bristol, U.K. Prior to coming to Elon, Dan completed a postdoctoral fellowship at NASA/Chandra X-Ray Center, based at Harvard and MIT. A Red Sox fan, Dan considers his 50-inch plasma TV his “pet.” In his free time, he enjoys having good food, a good drink and good company.
Marcie Fisher-Borne, Assistant Professor of Human Services Studies
Marcie obtained a Ph.D. and master’s degree in social work and public health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she worked as adjunct faculty for the School of Social Work. A Hattisburgh, Miss., native, Marcie and spouse Chantelle Fisher-Borne have a 2-year-old daughter, Miley, as well as four cats and one dog. Marcie’s hobbies include gardening, thrift store shopping and spending time with her family.
Lauren Flinn, Assistant Director of the Multicultural Center
A Boston, Mass., native, Lauren worked for Boston College, the Stepping Stone Foundation and Teach for America before coming to Elon. She said Elon’s reputation and the opportunity to work with first-generation college students were some of the qualities that attracted her to the school. When she is not working, Lauren likes going to the beach, cooking, reading, exercising and being with friends. She lives with her partner, Terrence Johnson, and their cat, Leo.
Angel B. Garcia, Assistant Director of Residence Life for East Area
Elon’s reputation and family atmosphere were among the reasons why Angel, a native of Tampa, Fla., decided to join Elon’s staff. “[The] opportunity for professional growth and caring attitude from the leadership team was attractive as well,” adds Angel, who holds a master’s degree in college student affairs. When he is not working, Angel enjoys sports, cooking, dancing, watching movies and interacting with friends.
Marnia E. Gardner, Program Assistant
Marnia’s love for working in higher learning made Elon a perfect fit for her. Her previous work experiences include working as a paralegal for Crumley Roberts and as program assistant for the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She lives with her two children, daughter Varnet Jones and son Travis Jones, and enjoys photography, reading, going to movies and concerts.
Phillip Brock Gilliam, Coordinator of the Prospect Database
Phillip joins Elon’s Admissions office after obtaining bachelor’s degrees in English and history and a master’s degree in sports studies. A native of Kernesville, N.C., Phillip lives with his dog, Boone, and enjoys sports.
Karl Green, visiting Assistant Professor of Performing Arts
Karl holds fine arts degrees in crafts and fashion design and a master’s in costume design from Virginia Commonwealth University. A native of Richmond, Va., Karl lives with partner Chris Burnside and enjoys gardening and birding in his spare time.
Natalie Hart, Assistant Professor of Performing Arts
Natalie comes to Elon after a freelance career in New York and working at Ohio University, where she obtained a master’s in fine arts. A native of Dallas, Texas, Natalie lives with husband Eric and their two cats, Biscuit and Mariska. Her hobbies include theatre, reading and crafts.
Trung Hynh-Duc, Catholic Campus Ministry Business Manager
Trung is looking forward to “working with college students” and “spreading the Gospel on campus.” A native of Greensboro, N.C., he holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Prior to coming to Elon, he worked as a web developer for DC Publishing. He lives with wife Melanie and their cat, Sherbet, and enjoys cooking and basketball.
Richard Jordan, Assistant Director for Career Services at the Love School of Business
A native of Portsmouth, United Kingdom, Richard joins Elon after working as a consultant for Lee Hecht Harrison and as leader global talent acquisition for Equifax. He and his wife, Charlotte, have a son, Robert, and a daughter, Sophie, as well as one cat. In his free time, Richard enjoys sports, traveling, volunteering and learning about history.
Brenda Joyner, Visiting Professor of Management
A Rocky Mount, N.C., native, Brenda comes to Elon from Loyola University in New Orleans. She holds a bachelor’s degree in management from Virginia Commonwealth University, an MBA from Emory University and a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia. Brenda has two cats, Abraham and Isabella, and enjoys reading, walking and cooking.
Michelle Kusel, Assistant Director of Leadership
After obtaining a degree in industrial engineering from Marquette University and working in that field for some time, Michelle decided to go back to school for a second career. She obtained a master’s in higher education from Loyola University in her native Chicago, Ill., and worked at that school as graduate assistant prior to coming to Elon. She lives with her husband, Brian, and their two cats, Diem and Sharkbait. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys scrapbooking and scuba diving.
Ismail Lagardien, Assistant Professor of Political Science
Elon’s emphasis on global citizenship, interdisciplinary teaching ad engaged learning drew Ismail to the school. He holds degrees from the London School of Economics and Aberystwyth University and joins Elon after teaching at the University of South Carolina. Ismail is a native of Johannesburg, South Africa, and lives with partner Suzanne S. Kimble.
Julie C. Lellis, Assistant Professor of Communications
Julie holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond and a master’s degree and a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Before coming to Elon, Julie served as assistant professor in the department of marketing communications at Emerson College. A native of Hartsville, S.C., Julie has a Siamese cat named Frasier and enjoys art, jewelry design, yoga, cooking and gardening in her spare time.
Buffie Longmire-Avital, Assistant Professor of Psychology
Buffie comes to Elon after completing her post doctoral fellowship at the Center for HIV Educational Studies and Training. A native of Cambridge, Mass., Buffie obtained her Ph.D. from New York University. She was attracted to Elon by its service learning and student/teacher research opportunities. Buffie and husband Nadav Avital have an 11-month-old son, Micah Barak Avital. When she is not working, she enjoys photography.
Gregory D. Marshall, Environmental Services Supervisor
Gregory comes to Elon from U.S. Airways. A native of Gibsonville, N.C., Gregory and wife Cathy have three children, Darren, Jeff and Genifer. In his free time, Gregory enjoys sports.
Alexis Martinez, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs
A native of Miami, Fla., Alexis earned a bachelor of business administration degree and a master’s degree in higher education administration and enrollment management from the University of Miami as well as a J.D. from the University of Miami School of Law. She comes to Elon after having worked for Syracuse University College of Law.
Jennifer McVay, Adjunct Professor of Psychology
Jennifer holds a bachelor’s degree from the College of William & Mary and a master’s and a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She lives with husband Kyle, three-month-old daughter, Madelyn, and their dog, Chloe. She enjoys karate, aikido, going to the theater and concerts, and playing cards and games.
Kristina Meinking, Assistant Professor of Latin and Classical Studies
Elon’s focus on student learning, sense of community and teaching and research opportunities made the school an attractive place to work for Kristina. A native of Massapequa, N.Y., Kristina has a bachelor’s degree from Skidmore College and a Ph.D. from the University of Southern California. She has two dogs, Watson, a cocker spaniel, and Rufus, a shiatsu. Her hobbies include reading, playing piano, running and going to the beach.
Matt Merry, peer ministry coordinator
Matt says that “the potential for growth under some great mentors” attracted him to Elon. A native of Cary, N.C., Matt holds a theology degree from Belmont Abbey College. Past employers include Cook Wealth Management. Matt enjoys painting, mountain biking and playing djembe in his free time.
Jonathan Miller, Director of Annual Giving for Athletics
“What isn’t attractive?” was Jonathan’s response when asked what made Elon an attractive opportunity for him. A graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Jonathan, a Burlington, N.C., native, lives with his wife, Shelley. Jonathan enjoys playing golf, working in the yard and watching movies.
Victoria Moore, Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Victoria joins Elon after working at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Harvard Medical Center and Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where she obtained her Ph.D. She also holds a bachelor’s degree from Madison University. A native of Manalapan, N.J., Victoria lives with husband Kirby and daughters Angelina and Anabella. She enjoys hiking, yoga, watching movies, gardening and traveling.
Scott Moyer, Athletic Video Coordinator
Scott comes to Elon from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he worked as a graduate assistant. A native of Kannapolis, N.C., Scott holds a degree in physical education from Catawba College. He has a dog, Carolina, and enjoys sports.
Alex Nickoden, Phonathon Coordinator
A 2009 alum, Alex says he feels at home at Elon, which is the reason why he decided to start off his career here. The Cleveland, Ohio, native said he enjoys “attempting to play golf” in his spare time.
Taryrn Njagu, Assistant Director of Residence Life
After working at Georgia Tech, Taryrn decided to come to Elon to be closer to her family. The Graham, N.C., native holds a bachelor’s degree and a M.Ed. degree. In her spare time, Taryn enjoys eating and shopping.
Aaron P. Noble, Jr., Adjunct Professor of Political Science
Aaron worked as human resources director for the City of Burlington, N.C., before joining Elon’s faculty. He holds an education degree from North Carolina State University. He has two dogs and enjoys restoring cars, walking and hiking.
Robert Parrish, Assistant Professor of Law
Robert comes to Elon from Indiana University Maurer School of Law. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, a master’s from Duke University and a J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He lives with wife Christa and children Nigel and Naomi, and enjoys reading and writing in his free time.
Daniel Travis Phillips, Gardener
Joining Elon’s staff “was a great career opportunity” for Daniel. A native of Siler City, N.C., Daniel’s past employers include New Garden Landscape, A & A Plants and Bland Landscaping Inc. He has two black labs and enjoys hunting and fishing.
Scott Proudfit, Assistant Professor of English
Elon’s student body, faculty support and location were the deciding factors that led Scott and his family to move to North Carolina. Prior to coming to Elon, Scott, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, worked as assistant editor and writer for Marvel Comics; writer for Walt Disney Imagineering; and managing editor for Back Stage West newspaper. Scott and wife Kelly have two children, Jack and Emily.
Michael Rich, Assistant Professor of Law
The opportunity to be involved in the development and growth of a new law school connected to a thriving university is what attracted Michael to Elon. A native of Cary, N.C., Michael holds degrees in physics and English from the University of Delaware as well as a J.D. from Stanford University. He and wife Amy Minardo have an 8-month-old child, Auden Rich-Minardo. When he’s not working, Michael enjoys running and watching movies.
Keren R. Rivas, Assistant Director of University Relations for Academic Communications
A 2004 Elon alumna, Keren returns to her alma mater to continue developing her career in communications. Prior to joining the Elon staff, Keren worked for six years as a reporter for the Times-News in Burlington, N.C. A native of Peru, Keren lives in Gibsonville, N.C., and enjoys hiking, traveling and reading.
Charlie Robison, Instructor in Exercise Science
A native of Poplar Bluff, Mo., Charlie holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in physical education from Missouri State University and the University of Central Missouri, respectively. He lives with wife Kayla and enjoys exercise, golf, soccer and softball.
Yilun Shi, Assistant Professor of Finance
Yilun joins Elon from teaching at St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas. The Shanghai China, native holds a business administration degree from Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, a master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Lawrence R. Stoehr, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Finance
Lawrence holds a bachelor’s degree from Duke University, a J.D. from Fordham University and an MBA from Columbia University. The Greensboro, N.C., native has four children, John, Alison, Claire and Kathleen. He lives with spouse, Dale, and their English springer spaniel, Lacey, and enjoys playing golf in his spare time.
Amanda Sturgill, Assistant Professor of Communications
Amanda says she came to Elon because she wanted to be part of a university that is “accomplishing great things.” A native of Westport, Conn., Amanda holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina and a master’s and Ph.D. from Cornell University. She lives with husband David, daughters Claire and Lucy, and their African Grey parrot, Elwood. In her spare time, Amanda likes to cook and travel internationally.
Ty Swaringen, Print Services Clerk
A native of Greensboro, N.C., Ty worked for G & K Services as a route sales representatives for 10 years before joining Elon’s staff. “The positive energy that radiates from everything that is ‘Elon’” attracted him to the school, he says. “I feel very blessed and extremely fortunate to be a part of this family,” he adds. Ty and wife Dodie have a daughter, Diamond, and a golden retriever named Bella. In his spare time, Ty enjoys spending time with his family and friends, riding motorcycles, camping and cooking.
Victoria Tillson, Assistant Professor of Italian
Victoria comes to Elon from Harvard University. A native of Silver Springs, Md., she holds a degree in art history from Johns Hopkins University and a master’s and Ph.D. in romance languages and literature from Harvard University. She says she was attracted to Elon by its philosophy and vision. In her free time, Victoria enjoys shopping—particularly for shoes, traveling and walking.
Robert Brandon Troxler, Groundskeeper
A native of Burlington, N.C., Robert holds an associated degree in horticulture technology from Alamance Community College. Prior to coming to Elon he worked for John Deere Landscapes. Robert lives with his wife, Tracey, their two daughters, Morgan, 11 and April, 8, and their four dogs. He likes to go fishing in his spare time.
Gary Tsarsis, Director of the William Garrard Reed Finance Center and Lecturer in Finance
Prior to coming to Elon, Gary worked for 29 years on Wall Street as a full-time institutional equities trader. He worked simultaneously as a part-time lecturer for 10 years at New York University, where he obtained a degree in economics and international relations. Gary also holds an MBA in finance from the University of Miami, Fla., and has been accepted in the doctorate program at Pace University. He and wife Michele have three children, Ryan, Cara and Allie, and a dog, Rocco. In his spare time, Gary enjoys ice hockey, coaching, traveling and spending time with his family.
Jennifer Uno, Assistant Professor of Biology
A native of Tucson, Ariz., Jennifer was a fellow with the SPIRE Postdoctoral Fellowship Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill prior to coming to Elon. She holds a degree in exercise science and chemistry from Northern Arizona University and a master’s and a Ph.D. in physiology from the University of Arizona. She lives with husband Richard von Furstenberg and their two dogs, Oliver and Molly. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys cooking, reading, playing outside and hanging out with her husband.
Donja Washington, Custodian
As a weekend custodian, you may not see much of Donja but you’ll certainly see the results of her behind-the-scenes work. Donja, who works at Sports Endeavors Inc. during the week, is a native of Durham.
Neil A. Williamson, HVACR Preventive Maintenance Mechanic
Neil comes to Elon after having worked at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in fine arts from East Carolina University and the University of North Carolina, respectively. A native of Mebane, N.C., he lives with his wife Briana. In his free time, Neil enjoys woodturning.
Garrett Wright, Assistant Director of Athletic Media Relations for Multimedia Services
A Nebraska football fan, Garrett joins Elon’s staff after having worked for the University of Nebraska athletic department and ESPN. A native of Lincoln, Neb., Garrett holds a degree in journalism from the University of Nebraska. Besides watching Nebraska football, Garrett enjoys spending time outdoors and learning the newest media technology.
Qian Xu, assistant professor of Communications
A native of Nanjing, China, Qian said the match between Elon’s communications program and her own research and teaching interests is what attracted her to Elon. Qian earned undergraduate and master’s degrees from Nanjing University and a Ph.D. from Pennsylvania State University. She enjoys reading books, watching movies and doing yoga in her spare time.
Welcome to Elon’s newest additions!
Tony Weaver, assistant professor of sport and event management, and his wife, Lauren, welcomed daughter Meegan Catherine on Monday, May 17. Meegan’s three older sisters have given her their “seal of approval!”
David Neville, assistant professor of German and director of language learning technologies, and his wife, Yvonne, welcomed son Ian O’Dell on Monday, May 17.
Tita Ramirez, assistant professor of English, and Drew Perry, associate professor of English, welcomed their first child, son Walter Tomas Ramirez-Perry, on Thursday, June 3.
Kristen Sullivan, assistant professor of human services studies, and husband Mark welcomed son Eli Obie on Wednesday, June 16, just in time for Father’s Day.
Whitney Gregory, coordinator of judicial affairs, and husband, Chris, welcomed daughter Madison Ann on Wednesday, June 30.
Melisha Chamra, associate director of annual giving, and husband Allan welcomed daughter Emma Elizabeth, on Tuesday, July 6.
Courtney Poythress, program assistant in Campus Security, welcomed daughter Victoria Sage Bennett, on Thursday, July 29.
Kirsten Doehler, assistant professor of statistics, and husband Phillip Ramsey welcomed daughter Kennedy Ann Ramsey, on Sunday, Aug. 15.