Admission Advisors

Meet Franklin’s Admissions Advisors

Franklin wants to make earning your associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate as straightforward as possible from Day One. So when you’re ready to apply, we’re ready, too. From the online application through student orientation, our dedicated team of admissions advisors will get you started on the admission process -- and keep you on track.

Our Advisors

Undergraduate Admission Advisors

Marshia Boone
Undergraduate Admissions Advisor

Education:  Master of Human Resource Management, B.A. Communications

Professional Experience:  I’ve worked as an advisor in higher education for 12 years. During that time I have served in many capacities: coordinating FAFSA workshops, presenting at new student orientations and overseeing high school application days. My vast experience has equipped me to assist students from various backgrounds, ages and levels of college experience. 

Advising Philosophy:  It has always been my philosophy that in order to be a successful, effective advisor, you have to meet the students where they are. It’s important that I make you feel comfortable and know that I’m here to inform and help guide your way to achieving your academic goals. 

Hobbies: I love to travel, play board games with my family and friends, and go to the movies.

Whitney Dodds
Undergraduate Admissions Team Lead

Education:  M.M. in Vocal Performance, B.A. in Music Business

Professional Experience: My career path has been a meandering one. I’ve done everything from running the register at a variety retail locations, teaching at the university level, managing a box office, and even hosting a radio show. I know from personal experience how difficult it can be to figure out what you want to be when you “grow up,” so it’s a joy and a privilege to help students with that process!

Advising Philosophy: I hope to impart our applicants with the importance of lifelong learning, regardless of age, race, gender, orientation or economic status. Lifelong learners become experts in their fields, well-rounded human beings, and excellent citizens of the world. It’s my job to help students find the path that they’re passionate about and that gets them excited about learning! 

Hobbies: I love to read, spend time with my dog Hildi and sew!

Taylor Cayot
Senior Undergraduate Admissions Advisor

Education: M.S. in Business Psychology, B.S. Psychology, B.S. Criminal Justice with FOE in Honors

Professional Experience: My higher education experience started when I became a residence assistant and then became one of my school’s first undergraduate hall directors. These experiences helped shape my passion for higher education and working with students. Later, I became an undergraduate admissions advisor, which included traveling to recruit students and helping students through the admission process.

Advising Philosophy/Personal Statement: I am a firm believe that a student’s initial experience can impact their future success. I take a student-centered, almost family-like approach, to working with each applicant as an individual. I always try to make the effort to provide a positive initial experience, to help encourage a student’s future success.

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family. A favorite solo activity is cooking, while listening to my favorite music. I consider myself a jack of all trades, as I enjoy experiencing new things and hobbies. 

Michael ‘Gia’ Giavasis
Assistant Director, Undergraduate Admissions

Education: Bachelor of Science in Biology (Pre-Med)

Hobbies: I enjoy softball, volleyball, soccer, cooking, reading, gardening and the arts.

Personal Statement: My ultimate goal when working with students is to cultivate trust and cooperation as we work toward academic success, personal growth and professional development together.

Debra Palmer
Student Recruitment Operations Coordinator

Education: Graduated from Warren G Haring High School (Warren, Ohio)

Specializations: Military Student Enrollment

Personal Statement: It has been my pleasure to work at Franklin University for 13 years. Working with our active and veteran students as the admissions military expert, it gives me great pride to assist applicants in obtaining their personal, academic and professional goals. It is my job to make sure they know what they need to in order to successfully become an enrolled student.

Hobbies: I enjoy bicycle riding, reading, traveling and spending time with family.

Jeremy Radovanic
Senior Undergraduate Admissions Advisor

Education: B.A. in Spanish, Education, and Leadership Studies 

Professional Experience: I have worked in undergraduate admissions for the past year. Previously, I worked with Columbus City Schools, engaging with high school students to ensure that they are successful in their future endeavors.

Advising Philosophy: I am committed to you and your success. As you begin your new journey with your education, I strive to make your transition to the university seamless. Know that your education is important to me and I am here to help.

Hobbies: In my free time I enjoy cooking, exploring new cities, playing volleyball, photography and videography. I also have a strong passion for travel paired with diverse cultures, food and languages.

Cameron Rogers
Undergraduate Admissions Advisor

Education: Bachelor of Interior Architecture 

Professional Experience: I have been working in higher education for four years. My current position is one of the most rewarding roles I have ever had. Working with prospective students and gaining an understanding of their goals and the significance of education in their lives has been a great experience for me. I enjoy getting to know students better in order to help them find the program that best meets their needs.

Advising Philosophy: It is my mission to provide valuable program knowledge and useful tools to seamlessly assist prospective students through our admission process. I strive to help applicants connect their personal and professional goals to create a perfect educational plan.

Hobbies: Having a creative mind I love to make things out of nothing or repurpose items. I also love to paint, draw, seek adventures and (last but not least) I love to eat!

Brandon Smith
Senior Undergraduate Admissions Advisor

Education: B.A in History and Sociology 

Professional Experience: My work experience has been mainly based in the performing arts. From teaching dance classes and leading a dance department to working in ticketing for over 5 years, I have always enjoyed working and engaging with others. 

Advising Philosophy: I hope to provide students with a sense of ease as they begin their educational journey. It is important to understand where they are coming from and their goals. By doing this, I can ensure students will make informed decisions during the admissions process. 

Hobbies: I try to stay as active as possible, including hiking, working out and taking/teaching dance classes. 
 

Drew Wells
Senior Undergraduate Admissions Advisor

Education: B.S. in Human Development Family Studies an M.S. in Higher Education Administration.

Professional Experience: I have been working in Higher Education for about 5 years now. The majority of my experience has been within Educational Policy Studies, but I have worked many roles mentoring, advising, and instructing students.

Advising Philosophy: My advising philosophy is all about getting to know the students unique abilities and challenges while ensuring students get all of the information and guidance they need to be successful. It is my responsibility to foster a relationship with each student and teach them how they can move forward and make important academic and life choices through personal growth and self-direction. Whether it be a few minutes or an hour with a student, an opportunity to educate students on their options and opportunities is what I find to be the most rewarding. 

Hobbies: I enjoy trying new foods, designing and decorating and helping others!

Graduate Admission Advisors

Sara Burris
Associate Director Graduate Admissions

Education: Bachelor of Science from Kent State University and Master of Science in Human Resource Management from Keller Graduate School of Management

Professional Experience: I’ve had the pleasure of working in higher education since 2004 and have been with Franklin University since 2013. My passion is helping students start their educational journey in Admissions as I have assisted undergraduate, master’s and doctoral level students throughout my career.  Additionally, I have experience in Financial Aid and Career Services which provides a well-rounded experience to those I assist.

Advising Philosophy: I have found a home in Franklin University as I find commonality with our student population. Working full-time as an undergraduate and master’s student I understand what it takes to sacrifice lower priorities while completing your educational goals for long-term success. I enjoy fostering a relationship with applicants to understand their objectives so that they can make their dreams a reality and in turn make our world a better place. Education is a powerful tool and it is truly humbling to watch applicants reach graduation understanding what it took to get there.

Hobbies: I enjoy nature first and foremost so you will usually catch me hiking or paddle boarding most weekends. Additionally, my husband and I love to travel to experience new sights, cultures and food. Last but not least I adore all animals and volunteer at shelters near my home as much as possible.

Katie Coridan
Assistant Director, Graduate Admissions

Education: M.A. Higher Education Administration, B.A. Psychology

Professional Experience: I started working in higher education in 2010, and came to Franklin University five years later. I have worked in academic advising, community standards, and graduate admissions.

Advising Philosophy: My goal is to provide every prospective student I work with the information and tools they need to make the best decision for their education. I understand the commitment and dedication it takes to pursue graduate education, and aim to make the process as easy as possible.  

Hobbies: I enjoy reading, cooking, traveling, wine tasting and craft beer. My dog Murray and I take walks every day, and also enjoy volunteering at my local animal shelter.

Jesse Lawrence
Graduate Admissions Advisor

Education: Master’s in business administration, BA in Economics

Professional Experience: I have worked in higher education for ten years, working closely with admissions and prospective students. During my time in education, I’ve enjoyed building relationships and seeing the people around me succeed.

Advising Philosophy: I treat students with integrity, attentiveness, and respect. This process is for the prospective student, and should focus on what is in their best interest. Committing to an academic program is an exciting step in life, and I’m here to help in any way I can.

Hobbies: My hobbies include playing sports, snowboarding, and cooking. I love spending time at home with my two cats, dog, and fiancé.

Merchel Menefield
Senior Doctoral Admissions Advisor

Education: Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Master of Science in Educational Leadership, Bachelor of Science Psychology

Personal Statement: One of my favorite quotes is “res non verba”, which means deeds not words. Although I am very talkative, I actually put forward a greater amount of effort to help others attain their personal and professional objectives through education.

Mission Statement: My mission as an advisor is to help learners/students determine the best way to use their education as a vehicle to get where they want to go. I strive to be their accountability partner in successfully navigating the admission process by always reminding them of their original intent for seeking a degree. Overall, my mission is to set them on a smooth pathway from admission to graduation.

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family, researching various topics, being outdoors and exploring other cultures. In addition, I am a proud native of North Carolina and travel there frequently.

Thomas Nisonger
Graduate Admissions Advisor

Education: M. Ed. in Sports Administration; B.S. in Sports Management

Professional Experience: Throughout my more than 5 years of experience in higher education, I have worked at both 2-year and 4-year colleges and universities, working within compliance and admissions. During my time in higher education, I have enjoyed connecting with students and learning more about each student's unique background.

 
Advising Philosophy: I believe that every student has their own unique skills and talents and my drive is to help students showcase those skills, not only in the classroom, but in their professional environment as well. My goal is to build a relationship with students and assist in their educational and career journey so they can have all the tools and information to make the best decision for their future. 


Hobbies: I enjoy watching sports and movies. My favorite hobby is spending time with my family and playing with our pet cat, Trixie.  
 

George Pomeroy
Senior Graduate Admissions Advisor

Specialties: City of Columbus, Essen and Nationwide Partnerships

Education & Professional Experience: Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, Master of Business Administration in Business Management and 8 years’ experience in higher education environment

Advising Philosophy: The real world is complex and I like to help students navigate this complexity with a combination of conceptual, informational and relational advising philosophies. I like to provide accurate information to students in a mentoring environment, challenging them to reflect on their interest, skills and aptitudes. I want students to think critically about their goals and objectives when selecting majors and future careers.

Hobbies: I love spending time with my family and I enjoy cycling and craft beer.

Manuela Smith
Senior Graduate Admissions Advisor

Education: M.S. in Business Psychology, M.S. in Instructional Design + Learning Technology (in process), B.S. Criminal Justice Administration, Bachelor’s Degree in Education/Pedagogy

Professional Experience: My 14 years of experience in the educational field has enabled me to better understand the journey my students are undertaking, and to better assist them along the way. As someone coming from another culture, I’m empathic toward the struggles and obstacles that students can face as they pursue their academic goals.

Advising Philosophy: My work experience at Franklin began at the front desk of the Student Services Center. Working with students on an individual basis helped give me a comprehensive viewpoint on what students need and how we can meet those needs as best possible, and it also prepared me well for my transition to my current role of graduate admissions advisor. I strive to make each student interaction personal and to ensure that all my students experience a red carpet service and feel that their educational goals are important to me, as well. 

Throughout all my years of education, I’ve learned how important it is to keep perspective on your goals and dreams. Even when experiencing difficulties, it is important to keep going and to never give up. 

Hobbies: I am originally from Romania, more specifically, from near the famous Transilvania region of Dracula fame. When I came to the United States as an exchange student, I did not speak any English. Through hard work and determination, I created a new life for myself. I am married, and am the mother of three children. In my free time, I love to travel, cook and spend time with my family.

Winnie Storer
Graduate Admissions Advisor

Education: MBA Specialization in Project Management, Bachelor’s in Business Administration

Professional Experience: I bring almost close to 10 years of experience in higher education focused in admissions for both undergraduate and graduate populations.  During my time, I have enjoyed connecting with students and helping them achieve their educational and career goals. 

Advising Philosophy: My approach is to provide students with the information they need to help them make the best decision for their educational and career goals.   As a 1st generation College Graduate, my family originally immigrated from China and instilled the importance of education growing up.  I am passionate with helping students break barriers to get started on their educational goals. 

Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, listening to audio books, and working out. 

Ardell Trotter
Doctoral Admissions Advisor

Education: Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership (in progress), MBA, B.S. Business Administration, A.A.S. Business Management

Professional Experience: I have 11 years of experience in higher education. During that time, I have fulfilled many roles, but I have truly cherished my time in Admissions and as an adjunct instructor, as those roles have allowed me to be in a position where I have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of students.  

Advising Philosophy: Building relationships with our students is something that I pride myself in, as it promotes a positive learning environment that helps to build our classroom community, and is probably one of the best investments we can make with our learners. My approach is one that is personable, genuine and filled with care. I believe that when we seek to understand, we show our learners that we care. I make it my mission to ensure that our students come first, while addressing their concerns and challenges throughout the admission process.

Hobbies: I enjoy watching sports, music production and fishing. However, my favorite thing is spending to time with my family because they bring me so much joy.

Community College Transfer Admissions Team

Joseph Smith
Director of Community College Alliance Ohio
(614) 947-6717 | Email >

Hometown: Wooster, Ohio

Proud Graduate of:  John Carroll University (Bachelors in Psychology) and University of New Haven (Masters in Industrial - Organizational Psychology

What I Love Most About Franklin: Franklin makes it personal - so that we can meet our students where they are. 

Fun Fact: I have enough cats to field a football team

Jenny Garringer
Assistant Director – Community College Alliance
(614) 947-6917 | Email >

Hometown: Clarksburg, Ohio

Proud Graduate of: Wright State University (Bachelors in Marketing) and (Masters in Business Administration)

What I Love Most About Franklin: I enjoy helping students achieve a new career or educational milestone by earning a bachelor’s degree. I also love the way that Franklin continually strives to make achieving that milestone more affordable for them through initiatives like our community college partnerships, our 3 + 1 pathways, and the Pathway Portal.
 
Fun Fact: I’ve always loved to bake and actually run a small cupcake business.

Shirley Hayes
Assistant Director – Community College Alliance
(614) 947-6061 | Email >

Hometown: St. Augustine, Florida

Proud Graduate of: Zane State College (Associate of Applied Business) and Mount Vernon Nazarene University (Bachelors of Business Administration & Masters of Business Administration)

What I Love Most About Franklin: Franklin University provides students with an affordable 3 + 1 pathway to higher education by partnering with community colleges all over the United States.  

Fun Fact: My “Happy Place” is at the beach. I love coffee, cats, family time, and photography. 
 

Danielle Cordes
Community College Regional Manager
(614) 947-6629 | Email >
(614) 714-1903 (Text only)

Hometown: Bolivar, Ohio

Proud Graduate of: Kent State University (Bachelors in Sports Management) and Keller Graduate School (Masters in Business Administration)

What I Love Most About Franklin: I love the passion Franklin University has for making a college degree accessible for so many!

Fun Fact: I enjoy volunteering at my local humane society. I have two rescue dogs and two rescue cats of my own.
 

Jennifer Mack
Community College Regional Manager
(614) 947-6911 | Email >
(614) 714-1903 (Text only)

Hometown: Lancaster, Ohio

Proud Graduate of: Wright State University (Bachelors of Arts) and Ashford University (Masters in Art Education)

What I Love Most About Franklin: The flexibility offered for traditional and non-traditional students. Franklin puts the student first by offering options that provide long term success.
 
Fun Fact:
I take pride in living an active lifestyle. I have run 15 half marathons, love playing tennis, and enjoy nothing more than a good workout class!
 

Erika Miller
Community College Regional Manager
(614) 947-6712 | Email >
(614) 714-1903 (Text only)

Hometown: Alliance, Ohio    
            
Proud Graduate of: Ohio University (Bachelors of Arts - Journalism) and Central Michigan University (Masters of Science – Administration)

What I Love Most About Franklin: How easy we make the entire college process from electronic textbooks to a two-step admissions process.

Fun Fact: I love ice cream and eat it several times a week.
 

Andrew Chamberlain
Community College Regional Representative
(614) 947-6244 | Email >
(614) 714-1904 (Text only)

Hometown: Logan, Ohio

Proud Graduate of: Ohio University (Bachelors – English, Literature & Writing)

What I Love Most About Franklin: I appreciate the flexibility our online, modular classes give students. The students I work with need a balance with their school/work life and Franklin University courses do just that. 

Fun Fact: I’m a huge Shakespearean buff! I enjoy reading the plays as well as watching them performed. My favorite aspect of Shakespeare is the language used in the plays and how the characters are defined through it. 
 

Laura Falgiano
Community College Alliance Enrollment Advisor
(614) 947-6713 | Email >
(614) 714-1903 (Text only)

Hometown: Buffalo, New York

Proud Graduate of: SUNY Buffalo State College (Bachelors in Social Work) and (Masters in Student Personnel Administration)

What I Love Most About Franklin: Everyone at Franklin is focused on the success of the students

Fun Fact: All of my pets are named after characters from television shows
 

Kayla Jarvis
Community College Alliance Enrollment Advisor
(614) 947-6724 | Email >
(614) 714-1904 (Text only)

Hometown: Creston, Ohio

Proud Graduate of: Cleveland State University (Bachelors in Anthropology & History) and George Washington University (Masters in Anthropology)

What I Love Most About Franklin: Franklin truly cares about creating a positive student experience from admissions to graduation

Fun Fact: I love thrifting and visiting antique stores and flea markets anywhere I go. I love the thrill of the treasure hunt!
 

MaryAnn Stoila
Community College Alliance Enrollment Advisor
test
(614) 947-6458 | Email >
(614) 714-1904 (Text only)

Hometown: Euclid, Ohio

Proud Graduate of: Wheeling Jesuit University (Bachelors of Education) and The University of Akron (Masters in School Counseling)

What I Love Most About Franklin: The community – Franklin offers a supportive and caring environment that nurtures student success

Fun Fact: Summer is my favorite season. I enjoy being outside as much as possible going on walks, kayaking, or reading.