COLLEGE OF ARTS & HUMANITIES SUPPORT
Michele Adkins
Student Success Coordinator
Supports students in:
- Early & Middle Grades Prep
- Special Education
Education:
- B.S. in Business Administration, Bloomsburg University
- M.S. in Higher Education and Adult Counseling, West Chester University
Student Success Philosophy:
Serving as a resource and advocating for students is the most rewarding aspect of my work.
Fun Fact: I love to discover and support independent bookstores and coffee shops!
Shana DeRosa
Student Success Coordinator
Supports students in:
- Secondary Education
Education:
- B.A. in Communication Studies (Broadcasting/Journalism)
- M.Ed. in Student Personnel Services and Counseling in Higher Education
Student Success Philosophy:
I consider the “art” of advising to be grounded in both teaching and learning – teaching and empowering students to become their best/most authentic selves while achieving their academic and career aspirations and learning from students their needs and ambitions so that I can best advocate for their success.
Fun Fact: I’m a classic film enthusiast and love everything from the silent cinematic masterpieces of Lon Chaney and Charlie Chaplin to the Bogie and Bacall crime dramas of the Noir era. “Here’s looking at you, kid” ;-)
Leah Ferguson
Student Success Team Lead
Supports students in:
- Social Work
Education:
- BSW
- MSW
Student Success Philosophy:
I bring forth social work values into all my student interactions, meeting them where they are and empowering them to succeed.
Fun Fact: I won Millerville's Homecoming Queen during undergrad.
Thom Nixon
Student Success Coordinator
Supports:
- Early & Middle Grades Prep
- Special Education
Education:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Sociology
- M.S. in Master of Science (Administration of Justice/Counseling)
- ABD Ed.D. Candidate: Higher Education Leadership
Student Success Philosophy:
As a Chester native and former student leader at Shippensburg University, I learned the power of advocacy and community action. That foundation drives my dedication to supporting students and ensuring they have the resources and conditions needed for academic and personal success. I support student adjustment, resource connection, and progress toward timely degree completion.
Fun Fact: Thom Nixon helps people learn,care about communities, and works to make life fair.
