“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
— Benjamin Franklin
I am a Data Specialist at Kent State University’s Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, where I develop and optimize SQL reports, support compliance processes, and collaborate with IT and cross-functional teams to streamline student aid operations. My work focuses on turning complex data into practical insights that improve both efficiency and student experience.
Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Analytics at Kent State. This program builds on my strong background in data management and reporting while expanding my skills in predictive modeling, visualization, and decision science.
Outside of my professional role, I enjoy mentoring students through robotics programs such as FIRST LEGO League and FIRST Tech Challenge, where creativity and problem-solving meet teamwork and technology. My lifelong interests in nature, science, and storytelling continue to shape the way I approach challenges—combining evidence, imagination, and exploration.
Educational Background
Kent State University – M.S. Business Analytics (in progress), 2025
Kent State University – Graduate Study, Evaluation & Measurement, 2015–2016 (9 credit hours)
Kent State University – B.A. Communication Studies, 2012 | GPA 3.79
Work Experience
Data Specialist
Kent State University – Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid | 2022–Present
- Develop and optimize Oracle SQL queries and Cognos reports to support compliance, aid packaging, and enrollment management.
- Design, test, and implement database-driven solutions within Ellucian Banner 9 ERP and NextGen Dynamic Forms, improving data accuracy and automation of student financial aid processes.
- Collaborate with IT, external stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to translate business requirements into technical solutions aligned with IT security and university policies.
- Maintain and support applications for federal and state aid programs (Pell, SEOG, OCOG, TEACH), ensuring integrity of student and financial data.
- Create technical documentation and SOPs to streamline operations and support adoption of new tools.
- Apply FERPA and security protocols to all processes, ensuring compliance with federal and institutional regulations.
Lead Secretary, Library & Media Center
Kent City School District | 2021-2022
- Created and maintained student assignment reports and asset-tracking databases for Chromebooks, library books, and classroom technology.
- Supervised student employees and managed circulation and technology resources.
Part Time Assistant Payroll Clerk
Kent City School District | 2019–2021
- Processed payroll records, benefits balances, and attendance data for classified and substitute employees.
- Generated reports for administrators on absence accrual and benefit balances.
Administrative Clerk
Kent State University – Dept. of Political Science | 2006–2016
- Developed and maintained reporting processes, batch file transfers, and enrollment databases.
- Supported course scheduling, classroom scheduling, and technology reservations.
- Managed department websites (Drupal, WordPress) and collaborated with marketing on newsletters, brochures, and online presence.
- Supported graduate and undergraduate program operations with data, reporting, and communications.
Employee Benefits Administrator
Sterling Jewelers, Inc. | 2002–2006
- Developed and maintained MS Access databases to track employee leaves of absence.
- Produced reports to identify and resolve data errors.
- Delivered new employee benefits orientation sessions and provided employee support for health insurance and leave policies.
Volunteer Work, Activities, Awards
Customer Churn Prediction (ABC Wireless, 2025): Built predictive models (logistic regression, random forest) in R to identify at-risk customers for targeted retention.
Dynamic Forms SOP Development (KSU, 2024): Authored SOPs for NextGen Dynamic Forms, enabling staff to create and maintain workflows for financial aid packaging.— Kent State University
FIRST Robotics Coach: Mentor and curriculum developer for FLL/FTC teams, teaching Python programming, robotics design, and problem-solving to middle and high school students.