Meet Elon's newest employees

Raul Barcenes, Assistant Professor of Music and Visiting Director of Bands

Raul Barcenes comes to Elon with a bachelor’s degree from Tarleton State University, master’s degrees from both Chapman University and University of Nevada-Las Vegas and a doctorate degree from University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is originally from San Antonio and enjoys watching movies and taking Zumba classes. He is excited to be working at Elon because of the school’s reputation and potential.

Shane Carew, Men’s Soccer Assistant Coach

Shane Carew previously served as executive director for the FC Carolina Alliance, one of the fastest growing soccer associations in the state of North Carolina. He admires Elon’s reputation, vision and athletic tradition He was born in Kilkenny, Ireland and has a degree in English and communication studies. In his spare time, Shane likes to read.

David Donahue, Moving Assistant

David Donahue is originally from Eastham, Mass. and has a bachelor’s degree in physical education and recreation from Elon. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Lisa, two teenage children, Megan and Michael, and their two dogs, Jack and Lucy. David has loved spending time on the campus again and is excited to be back here with his family. He also enjoys hunting, fishing and playing sports.

Tyler Engle, Assistant Softball Coach

Tyler Engle received his bachelor’s degree in education from the Ohio State University and a master’s degree in education from Ohio Valley University where he also worked as a graduate assistant and baseball coach. He is originally from Beverly, Ohio and enjoys fishing and golfing. At Elon, he looks forward to working with head softball coach Kathy Bocock.

Mark A. Gebert, Lecturer in Department of Math and Statistics

Mark A. Gebert previously taught at University of Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University and Meredith College. He has a master’s degree in math from Indiana University and a master’s and doctorate in statistics from Rice University. Mark is from Lake Forest, Ill. and lives with his wife, Frieda, and their four sons, Morgan, Phil, Nick and Ellis.

Andrew Greenland, Assistant Professor of Economics

Andrew Greenland is originally from Dover, Ohio and attended Miami University for his undergraduate studies. He continued his education at Purdue University where he received both his master’s degree and doctorate. In his spare time, Andrew likes to hike, hunt, fish and read. He admires Elon’s focus on teaching and the growing reputation of the school.

Chris Harris, Assistant Professor of Finance

Chris Harris comes to Elon with a doctorate degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln. He received his undergraduate degree at Middle Tennessee State University. He was previously employed at Greenwich Alternative Investments. Chris, who is originally from Franklin, Tenn., lives with his wife, Nathalie, and their three young children, Colton, Rogan and Adelaine. He enjoys family activities, sports, gardening and reading. He is excited to be at Elon because of “the philosophy of the university, the people, the location and the beautiful campus.”

Vance Maurice Riley Jr., Custodian

Vance Maurice Riley Jr., a native of Mebane, was previously employed at Alamance Foods. He is a graduate of Same College. He has three children, Ashley, Cameron and Carmen and enjoys playing basketball and going to the gym.

Carrie Ritzler, Assistant Director of Annual Giving

Carrie Rittler was previously employed at N.C. State University and is originally from Fostoria, Ohio. She received her bachelor’s degree in sport management and exercise science from Baldwin-Wallace College. Carrie enjoys traveling to see family and friends, being active and watching college sports. She loves working in a beautiful, growing community at Elon and interacting with the wonderful staff.

Craig D. Schmitt, Instructor in Sport and Event Management

Craig D. Schmitt is originally from Pensacola, Fla. where he attended the University of Florida and earned a bachelor’s degree in business economics. He went on to receive his M.B.A from the University of Central Florida and has taught at both the University of Colorado at Boulder and the University of Northern Colorado. His previous employment includes Cannon Street YMCA and the Central Florida YMCA. He is engaged to Abigail Carpenter and has three cats, Ritz, Sideshow and Dr. Marvin. He enjoys hiking, golf, basketball, skiing and going on adventures. He admires Elon for “its commitment to students.”

Shanna Van Beek, International Programs Advisor

Shanna Van Beek graduated from Elon in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in English and international studies. During her time as a student, she worked at the Global Education Center. After graduating, Shanna served as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant through the U.S. State Department but is glad to be returning to Elon. “I couldn’t resist the opportunity to be back in this office and on Elon’s campus. ” She is originally from Indian Trail, N.C. and enjoys writing, reading, horseback riding and playing ultimate Frisbee.

Kenny Wilson, Coordinator of Interactive Projects

Kenny Wilson has a background in teaching as a graduate assistant at the University of Florida and an assistant professor at Albany State University. He has a bachelor’s degree in digital arts and sciences along with a master’s in art and technology. Originally from Altamonte Springs, Fla., he is looking forward to working with the intense and innovative interactive media program here at Elon. He has two cats, Nossy and Sir Puffington. His hobbies include art, volleyball and craft brewing.