Academic Engagement Directory

About Me: I’m originally from New York, but come to Dallas by way of New Orleans. I have my PhD in Educational Leadership, Research and Counseling, and hold master’s degrees in Literature and Education. I was a high school English teacher before transitioning into higher education. My time outside of work is spent with my family, gardening, and reading as much as I can.

About Me: I’m originally from Wisconsin, and I completed my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Minnesota at St. Cloud State University. My background is in Communication Studies, German, and College Counseling and Student Development. I spend most of my time outside work watching my teenager play soccer, hanging out with my two adorable cats, and traveling as much as possible.

About Me: Maya A. Gonzalez is the Coordinator of Academic Engagement in the Division of Student Success. Born in Dallas, Texas, and currently residing in Arlington, Texas, Maya obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Broadcasting) with a minor in Business, as well as a Certificate in Digital Media. She was drawn to broadcasting and journalism at an early age because ever since she can remember, she has always tuned in to watch the evening news. Also, having graduated from University of Texas at Arlington gives her a deep sense of pride to work at her Alma Mater. She also enjoys working with students and loves watching them succeed and find their full potential. 

About Me: Hello, my name is Holly Williams, and I am the Coordinator of Experiential Learning in the Office of Academic Engagement. I am a Texas native; I was born in Houston and moved to the Dallas area in 2005 where I’ve been ever since. My background is in Science and Education. I worked as an Education Program Specialist for Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas and most recently as an Assistant Director of Education at Sylvan Learning Center. In 2021, I earned my master’s degree in education from the University of Texas- Arlington. I love positively impacting young minds through education and leadership and hope to continue doing that throughout my career. Outside of work you will find me exploring new adventures through food and travel or spending time with loved ones.

About Me: Hi, I’m Jailene! I’m currently getting my masters in Social Work while being a graduate assistant on campus as well. I’m also a member of the UTA Powerlifting club. When I’m not in the gym or working, I’m usually binging a drama show or finding new restaurants to try.

About Me: D’Angelo Gillespie (he/him) is a Flint, Michigan native with a passion for holistic approaches to student access and success. He holds a bachelor's degree in English with a writing specialization from the University of Michigan-Flint and is completing a master's degree in Higher Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin. Through his six years of experience in education, primary to post-secondary, D'Angelo has remained steadfast in his journey of advocacy for equitable student development practices. Outside of work, D'Angelo enjoys binge-watching shows, traveling, and hanging out with friends.

About Me: I grew up in College Station, Texas as a lifelong Texas A&M fan. I graduated from A&M with my B.S. in Sport Management in 2017, and then graduated from Mississippi State University in 2021 with my Masters in Student Affairs and Higher Education. I have been at UTA since 2021, first as a freshman academic advisor in the University Advising and Engagement Center and now as the Dual Credit Coordinator. I love sports, chocolate, all things Disney, reading, and just about every 90s sitcom.

About Me: I am originally from Ohio and moved to Texas from Michigan. I earned my undergraduate degree in Communication and my graduate degree in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University. I spend my free time playing pickleball, reading books, eating a good meal (anything with cheese involved) and hanging out with my husband and son.

About Me : Tyah Garrett grew up in an Air Force household which gave her the opportunity to live in places like Germany, Japan and many more. She has a bachelor degree in Health Studies with a minor in Psychology, and her masters in Counseling Psychology. When she is not helping student explore different majors at UTA, she is working in private practice doing therapy with teens and adults. Her hobbies include working out, reading, cooking, crafts, and spending time with family.

About Me: My name is Lauren Minaudo, I was born and raised in the Central Valley of California and moved to Texas in 2022. I have an undergrad degree in Business Administration and a master’s degree in Strategic and Organizational Leadership from Fresno Pacific University. I have worked in higher education since 2019 first as an admissions representative and currently as an academic advisor. In my spare time I enjoy reading, gardening, and making pickles.

About Me: Khalilah currently resides as the senior advisor for Major Exploration and Undeclared students. Prior to her time at UTA, she worked at the University of Michigan as an academic advisor. The university is also where she received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s. Khalilah believes that all students deserve a quality education, so she works enthusiastically to help students achieve success within the university.

About Me: My name is Jody Miller. I grew up in Arlington, Texas. I graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor's in Sociology and a minor in Criminal Justice. I am a huge animal lover and enjoy spending my free time volunteering. I love doing photography for rescue organizations and our local shelter.