Desarae Nelson, Ed.D.
Project Director | [email protected] | 501-916-6165
Education: Doctorate of Higher Education Administration from UA Little Rock; Master of Science in Sports Administration from Henderson State University; Bachelor of Science in Biology from Ouachita Baptist University
Short Bio: Born and raised in Arkadelphia, AR, I come from a family of TRIO professionals. I love fishing and spending time with friends and family. Education is my passion. I love helping people expand their educational horizons because education, once achieved, can never be taken away. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”-Nelson Mandela
What do you love about TRIO: I love that TRIO provides nontraditional and underrepresented students opportunities to be successful in post-secondary education. There are so many times when students may consider giving up on their hopes and dreams because life just seems to knock them down. Thankfully, TRIO is always there to encourage them and support them along their journey so that they can continue to move forward one step at a time.
Why should students join SSS: Students should join SSS because there are so many ways that SSS can assist them. Students don’t always consider what needs they have outside of everyday academic needs. While SSS provides assistance with academic needs, SSS also provides networking opportunities and relationships that will last well beyond the student’s time here at UA Little Rock. TRIO SSS is a nurturing, family atmosphere. Come join our TRIO family because TRIO works!
Marty Mayfield, M.A.
Project Coordinator| [email protected] | 501-916-6163
Education: M.A. Human Resources Management, Webster University; B.A. in Management Information Systems, UA Little Rock
Short Bio: I have over 14 years of professional higher education experience. I’m from Little Rock, Arkansas and was the first in my family to graduate from a 4-year institution. I understand and can relate to first-generation college students. Family time is my hobby!
What do you love about TRIO: What I love about TRIO is how everyone works together to ensure that our students are informed about the different activities happening across campus. The TRIO program also visits other universities to prepare our students for Graduate School opportunities on their academic journey past an undergraduate degree.
Why should students join SSS: Students should join TRIO because we can relate to them.
Destiny Walker, M.S.
Student Development Specialist |[email protected] | 501-916-6164
Schedule an Appointment (Students’ Last Names A-L)
Education: Master’s in Higher Education, Arkansas State University; Bachelor’s in Business Management, Minor in Psychology, Henderson State University
Short Bio: I have over nine years of experience in higher education. I’m originally from the small town of Gurdon, Arkansas, and now proud to call Arkadelphia home. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, and cooking. When you meet our family, you’ll understand why it’s such a supportive environment.
What do you love about TRIO: What I love most about TRIO is the sense of family it creates and the invaluable resources it provides to help students succeed.
Why should students join SSS: Students should join SSS because it’s truly a life-changing experience. Through the program, you gain access to financial support, career development opportunities, and personalized mentoring that helps you grow both academically and personally.
Michita Cohen, M.A.
Student Development Specialist |[email protected] | 501-916-6166
Schedule an Appointment (Students’ Last Names M-Z)
Education: M.A. in Communication Studies, Arkansas State University; B.A. in Communication Studies, Arkansas State University
Short Bio: I am an Arkansas State University Alum from Little Rock, AR. I have been working in higher education for 8 years and I have spent 7 of those years with TRIO programs. I enjoy working with students and assisting them with being successful throughout their college journey and life in general.
What do you love about TRIO: I love that TRIO is a big family with the same goal which is student success.
Why should students join SSS: Students should join SSS to have additional resources and assistance with navigating through their journey.