Staff Directory

Bio: Dr. Ashley Purgason is at her Alma Mater of UT Arlington and serves as the Vice Provost for Student Success. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology from UT Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, and has taught Biology courses at multiple institutions. Dr. Purgason leads the Division of Student Success in Academic Affairs and is responsible for retention and completion efforts including campus advising initiatives, academic support, first year experience courses, and more.

Bio: Liz received her Bachelor's from the University of North Texas and her Masters in Organizational Development. She is a dedicated higher education professional with a successful history working in academic advising, project management, organizational development, and is a skilled leader. Liz supports the operations and technology initiatives within the Division.

Bio: Dr. Deidra Turner holds a B.A. in Sociology from TCU. She went on to earn an M.Ed. in Student Personnel in Higher Education from the University of Georgia and a Ph.D. in Sociology with an emphasis in Gender, Race, and Ethnicity from Texas A&M University. She promotes continuous learning inside and outside the classroom and strives to create connections that strengthen people and programs. Deidra supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by aiding the Maverick Advising Community in its efforts to be a global leader in offering excellence in academic advising and co-curricular engagement.

Bio: Dr. Candice Calhoun-Butts earned her Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of the Cumberlands. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, she has served in a wide range of roles. Throughout her career, Dr. Calhoun-Butts has remained deeply committed to service, advancing excellence in education, fostering innovation, and cultivating an inclusive, student-centered environment that supports academic achievement and personal growth.

Bio: Vickie Daniel is passionate about increasing office efficiency and productivity. Vickie supports the Division of student success and serves students by providing essential administrative and logistical support, acting as a point of contact, and facilitating access to resources and services.

Bio: Chad Crawford graduated from UNLV with his master's degree in Higher Education Leadership. He is passionate about serving students in their pursuit of higher education and beyond. Chad supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by challenging and supporting individuals to achieve their goals on and off campus.

Bio: Morgan Hutto graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with her bachelor's degree in Information Technology. She also graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with her master's degree in Public Administration. She is passionate about helping staff members feel connected and engaged in their work. Morgan supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by coordinating assessment efforts, onboarding new staff members, and delivering professional development opportunities.

Bio: Katie Marler graduated from Texas Christian University with her master’s degree in Rhetoric and Composition. She is passionate about communication strategies, content writing, and clearly presenting information and ideas. Katie supports the Division of Student Success, serving UTA stakeholders by leveraging her strategic communication skills to provide the right information at the right time.

Bio: Catherine Unite serves as the Director of the Academic Success Center in the Division of Student Success. She has three decades of international experience in higher education, specializing in academic support and peer education. Her career spans roles in research, teaching, and academic leadership, including the development and implementation of national centers and large-scale institutional initiatives. all rooted in a deep commitment to student success and transformative learning.

Bio: I have been at UTA for 5 years. The students I serve are directly responsible for why I love this job. I hope in a small way I have made a difference in the students’ lives as they have done in mine.

Bio: Analiese Castillo graduated from The University of Texas at Arlington with a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. She is passionate about student engagement, professional development, and cultivating supportive networks that empower students to thrive. Analiese supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by coaching student employees toward meaningful academic achievement and personal growth.

Bio: Noah Howell graduated from University of North Texas with their bachelor's degree in Psychology. They are passionate about leveraging human capital in the academic space and moving the needle in student success. Noah supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by coordinating vital processes in the Supplemental Instruction program and synergizing with other Academic Success Center programs.

Bio: Elizabeth Perry graduated from Texas Tech University with her master's degree in business administration. She is passionate about student development and creating meaningful opportunities that help students grow academically, personally, and professionally. Elizabeth supports the division of student success by overseeing the ASC tutors and fostering collaboration with faculty and staff to ensure students receive high-quality academic support.

Bio: Fadeke is a Nigerian Doctoral student with the College of Education and has earned master's degrees in business administration, Conflict Security and Development and a Master of Philosophy in Leadership and Strategic Studies. She is an experienced project manager and has worked with several cross-sectional teams in banking, asset management, finance, and Credit Risk Management. She has experience in upskilling high school students in finance and entrepreneurship and has moonlighted as a school administrator at various times over the years. Fadeke concluded her master’s in educational leadership and policy Studies at UTA and is currently in the doctoral program in the same department.

Bio: Adriane Jones graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a bachelor’s degree in history. She is passionate about ensuring every student feels supported and connected while helping them build a strong foundation for success. Adriane supports the Division of Student Success by leading strategic initiatives and programs that take a holistic, student-centered approach to meeting students’ academic and personal development needs and supporting their overall success.

Bio: Jennifer Janes graduated from Eastern Michigan University with her bachelor's degree in Communication and her master's degree in Educational Leadership. She is passionate about helping students reach their full potential. Jennifer supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by responding quickly to inquiries and building strategies to improve the student experience.

Bio: Karen Clements attended Southern Methodist University for three years before leaving to start her family. She is passionate about supporting the Division of Student Success with her administrative duties and the tasks needed to keep it running smoothly throughout the year.

Bio: Lashawn Hodge graduated from Florida International University with his bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. He is passionate about personal growth and development and implementing strategies to foster student success. Lashawn supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing tools and resources that will help them achieve their academic goals.

Bio: Alexis Hatch earned a master’s degree in counseling from Southern Methodist University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She is passionate about helping students feel confident, supported, and empowered—both in and out of the classroom. At the Division of Student Success, Alexis works closely with students through academic advising, offering guidance, encouragement, and tools to help them stay on track and reach their goals.

Bio: Luis Munoz graduated from The University of Texas at Arlington with his master's degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. He is passionate about building relationships and helping students reach their full potential. Luis supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing academic and personal support to our first-time college population.

Bio: LaKeitha Yarborough graduated from University of North Texas with her Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Science. She is passionate about helping others achieve their goals by connecting them with resources to assist in seeking their full potential. LaKeitha supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing academic guidance that empowers students to achieve their educational and career goals.

Bio: Elizabeth Webb graduated from Kansas State University with her master's degree in Academic Advising. She is passionate about the mission of academic advising and loves supporting students as they pursue their educational, career, and personal goals.

Bio: Shelly Parker graduated from UT Arlington with her bachelor's degree in finance. She is passionate about helping students recognize their potential and obtaining the goals they have established. Shelly supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by communicating with them about credit by exams that may apply to their degrees, hopefully decreasing time to completion and cost as well as proctoring exams that support specific degree program applications.

Bio: Serina Davenport graduated from Indiana State University with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She later earned her master's degree from Capella University in Counseling and Social Community services. She is passionate about student success, retention, and helping students navigate their academic journeys with confidence and clarity. Serina supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by leading academic progression and completion initiatives, providing strategic advising support, and connecting students to resources that promote persistence and timely graduation.

Bio: My name is Tammy R. Drakeford, I was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas, moved to Texas in June 1987. I have worked in Higher Education since April 2002, starting in the Career Services (Career Development Center) here at UTA, as a Front Desk Supervisor and currently now as a Coordinator in Academic Progression & Completion. I LOVE it here at UTA! In my spare time I enjoy church, traveling, and spending time with family!

Bio: Andrea Bond graduated from Texas A&M University -Commerce with her bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies. She spent 21 years teaching before transitioning to advising at UTA. Andrea now supports the Division of Student Success in her role in Academic Progression and Completion. She serves students by connecting them to resources so they can meet their academic goals and graduate.

Bio: Audrey Orr graduated from UTA with her bachelor's degree in University Studies and is currently pursuing a master's degree in Education at UTA. She is passionate about mentoring and guiding students through their educational journey. Audrey supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing academic advising services to help students successfully navigate course selection and degree requirements to stay on track to graduation!

Bio: I enjoy working with the diverse student population at UTA and seeing our TRIO students succeed. I am fortunate to be working within the Division of Student Success and share the commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey.

Bio: Daisy L. Jones graduated from Jackson State University with her bachelor’s and master’s degree in Social Work. She is passionate about guiding students towards successful completion of their dreams and goals. Daisy L. Jones supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing an extra layer of support throughout their academic matriculation.

Bio: Denycea Perry graduated from the University of Texas Permian Basin with her master's degree in criminal justice administration. She is passionate about expanding access to higher education and helping students build the academic confidence and resources they need to succeed. Denycea supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by offering academic success coaching, mentorship, and guidance that helps students stay on track, overcome barriers, and reach their academic and personal goals.

Bio: Angel Hernandez graduated from Rowan University with his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education. He is passionate about both student and employee success, believing that empowered, supported employees are key to transforming and inspiring students. Angel is driven by a passion for helping others and a desire to leave every space and person better than he found them. Angel supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by leading the First Year Advising program and advancing initiatives that simplify processes, improve communication, and enhance the student experience.

Bio: Jessica Gilmore graduated from Southern Methodist University with her master's degree in Educational Leadership. She is passionate about fostering growth and connection through professional development and data-informed practices. Jessica supports the Maverick Advising Community and serves students by advancing practices that support student success.

Bio: Diana Sabogal graduated from the University of Southern California with her master's degree in Leadership. She is passionate about helping students and families navigate the world of higher education. Diana supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by educating students and their families, in both English and Spanish, to help them maximize their educational journey.

Bio: Jesus graduated from Texas A&M University with his master’s degree in Sport Management. As a passionate advocate for first-generation college students, he is dedicated to helping them establish a strong foundation in higher education. Jesus supports Division of Student Success by using his personal experiences to support and guide the next generation of graduates.

Bio: Felipe Tamayo graduated from Texas A&M University with his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Sport Management. He is passionate about student success and fostering an environment where students can thrive, especially those who can face unique challenges, such as first-generation college students like himself. Felipe supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing personalized guidance, helping students build strategies for overcoming obstacles, and connecting them with resources to achieve both their academic and personal goals.

Bio: Thomas Michael graduated from Rutgers University with his master's degree in College Student Affairs. He is passionate about building relationships with students and making the advising process for them clear and organized. Thomas supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by taking time to get to know about their interests, lifestyle, and how to holistically uplift their academic performance.

Bio: Alyssa Haddock graduated from Arizona State University with her bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cells and Developmental Biology) and is currently attending the University of Texas at Arlington for her M.Ed in Mind, Brain, and Education. She is passionate about creating a welcoming and supportive environment tailored to each students’ individual needs to find success in their future endeavors. Alyssa supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by utilizing her college experiences, campus partners, and education to better her students’ first year advising and college experience.

Bio: Kathleen Cantu earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Texas. She is passionate about student support, mental health advocacy, and helping others navigate their academic journeys with confidence. In her role with the Division of Student Success, Kathleen draws on her counseling background and strengths in relationship-building to ensure students receive the right support at the right time.

Bio: Samone Griffin graduated from UNT Dallas with her bachelor’s degree in Sociology. She is passionate about helping students achieve their academic and career goals. Samone supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing personalized academic advising and using her strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills to guide them through their educational journey.

Bio: Jordin Weinberg earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University and is currently working on her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UNT Dallas. She’s passionate about making college feel more manageable, especially for first-generation students and those navigating pre-health tracks. Jordin supports the Division of Student Success by offering straightforward, personalized advising to help students move forward with confidence.

Bio: Taylor Atkins graduated from Texas A&M University–Texarkana with her bachelor’s degree in History. She is passionate about supporting students as they begin their university journey and helping them build a memorable experience. Taylor supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by guiding them to identify their goals and pathways to achieve them, understand their degree requirements, and feel empowered to advocate for themselves and their educational journey.

Bio: Janet graduated from East Texas State University with a BS in Counseling/English and her graduate degree is a MS in Counseling and Secondary Higher Education. She enjoys helping others, so the UAEC is the perfect spot for her!

Bio: Ben Taqi graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with his bachelor's degree in history. He is passionate about social mobility through education. Ben supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by providing clear understanding of their degree requirements and university policies.

Bio: Claudia Arredondo graduated from St. Mary's University with her Bachelor's in Speech Communication, from the Universidad de Alcala de Henares with a master's degree in Global Higher Education, and from EDSEN Business School with a master's degree in Digital Business. She is passionate about the interculturality behind communication, art, and higher education. Claudia supports First Year Advising and serves students by providing guidance on academic topics such as degree requirements, relevant course selection, and assists students in setting and achieving educational and career goals.

Bio: Miles Muskrat graduated from West Texas A@M University with his Bachelor's degree in General Studies with an Emphasis in Education. He is passionate about serving the student body while helping them discover their purpose. Miles supports the Academic Engagement, University Advising and Engagement Center, Division of Student Success and serves students by identifying the core values of each student and establishing clear and attainable goals to be successful students.

Bio: Justin Correll graduated Warner School of Education from University of Rochester with a masters in Education and Human Development. He is passionate about communication tactics, growth opportunities, and providing guidance. Justin supports DSS and serves students by guiding them on what you will learn with your major as well as what others have to offer. By having the time to learn more about you and what you hope to accomplish.

Bio: Lauren Krznarich graduated from St. Cloud State University with her master's degree in College Counseling & Student Development. She is passionate about developing hands-on learning opportunities for students, helping incoming UTA students find a sense of belonging on campus, and collaborating across campus to positively impact student success. Lauren supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by developing career-engaged experiential learning opportunities and curriculum that supports incoming UTA students in their first year and beyond.

Bio: Holly Williams graduated from the University of Texas - Arlington with her master's degree in curriculum and instruction. She is passionate about working to develop student success through leadership and experiential learning. Holly supports the Division of Student Success and serves first year students by engaging them in experiential learning opportunities through programming and curriculum development for the UNIV courses.

Bio: Amber Ledesma graduated from the University of North Texas with her master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is passionate about organizational strategies, assessing performance data, and connected thinking. Amber supports the Division of Student Success and serves students by utilizing her organizational skills to help students develop a clear path towards their goals.

Bio: Mitali Nivangune is a graduate student at the University of Texas at Arlington pursuing a master’s degree in Data Science. She is passionate about student success, data-driven decision-making, and creating engaging learning experiences. Mitali supports the Division of Student Success through academic support, student engagement initiatives, and effective communication, helping students access the right resources at the right time. She also contributes to UNIV courses by supporting instruction and assisting in the development and refinement of new course sections to enhance the first-year student experience.