About Us

Kate Ashmore joined the Honors Advising Team in Spring 2024. They will be primarily advising for the JGHC Scholars Programs: Wilcox Scholars Program, First-Generation Brad and Terry Holcombe Scholarship, George W. Jenkins Scholarship, and Ableidinger Scholarship.

Kate graduated from USF in May 2016 with a BA in German Studies and with Honors College distinction. The 2016-2017 academic year saw them work as the Honors LLC Program Assistant before moving to Germany to complete their Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship.

After living Germany, Kate finished their Master of Arts in German at the University of Georgia in May 2021. They then stayed on as a German language instructor for the 2021-2022 school year before taking on an unexpected opportunity to work with a trucking company as a key account manager. They’ve now returned to their passion – higher education and working with students.

Kate is passionate about language and global education. They’re thrilled to return to USF and work with university students navigating their college journeys and deciding on the next steps for their futures.

Dr. Banke joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College in January 2015, after serving as an academic advisor in USF Engineering for three years. Before that, she was a first-year enrichment and study skills instructor and success coach at Rochester Institute of Technology. She advises computer science, humanities, and exploratory majors. Dr. Banke has taught English in the United States and Mexico. She completed a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Guilford College, a Master of Science degree in Education with a concentration in TESOL at Nazareth College, and a doctoral degree in English Rhetoric and Composition at USF. She loves helping people make their dreams come true.

Megan Braunstein graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and Chinese from the University of Florida in May 2013. She earned her Master of Education degree in college student affairs from USF in May 2016, and is currently a doctoral student through the University of Minnesota's Leadership for International and Intercultural Education program. As part of Northeastern University’s N.U.in Program, she led a STEM study abroad program to University College Dublin in Dublin, Ireland; then returned home to the Judy Genshaft Honors College. She advises College of Business, College of Education, and pre-law social science students. She also serves as coordinator of international programs and Secretary of the Eta of Florida Phi Beta Kappa chapter at USF.

Ava graduated as a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society from the University of Florida in 2022 with Bachelor of Arts degrees in anthropology and geography. She then earned her Master of Arts degree in anthropology from UF in 2024, where her research focused on the intersection of digital and physical fitness environments.

Before moving back to the Tampa Bay area, Ava gained valuable experience in higher education through a graduate assistantship in academic advising, an internship with orientation programs, and holistic application review with admissions at UF. She joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College as an academic advisor in summer 2024, primarily advising students in the psychology department, the school of social sciences, and biomedical sciences.

Ava is passionate about helping students have a fantastic collegiate experience, both in and out of the classroom. She encourages students to take advantage of all the experiential learning opportunities that the Honors College offers. In her spare time, she loves to travel, try new foods, watch sports (especially soccer — her favorite team is Manchester City), and power lifting meets. 

Carter Harbert earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in organizational leadership from Maryville University of St. Louis in 2014 before moving to Tampa. There, he pursued his Master of Education Degree in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in college student affairs at the University of South Florida. During his two years of graduate study, he worked as the graduate assistant for Living Learning Communities in Residential Life and Education, served on the University Conduct Board with Student Rights and Responsibilities, and interned at Boston College, benchmarking their residential ministry program with other Jesuit and Catholic institutions. Carter also had the privilege of serving as a representative on the Public-Private Partnership (P3) Committee at USF that was tasked with reviewing and selecting a private housing development partner and plans for the new residential village completed in 2019. He completed his degree and joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College as an academic advisor for pre-health majors in Spring 2016. He loves dogs, Star Wars, and video games.

Dr. Kevin Lee (he/him) earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from Eastern Illinois University, a Master of Arts in educational administration with an emphasis in student affairs from the University of the Pacific, and a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction with a focus on higher education administration from the University of South Florida. Dr. Lee has over 10 years of experience in higher education, including roles in academic advising, residential life, student conduct, and fraternity and sorority life. As a first-generation college student and an immigrant from South Korea, Kevin is dedicated to advocating for diversity and inclusion, supporting students in discovering their authentic selves. Originally from the Chicagoland area, he and his partner are excited to call the Tampa Bay area home.

Arnaldo (Arnie) Mejias serves as director of advising. Until recently, he served as coordinator of the Judy Genshaft Honors College's articulated pre-health programs, including 7-Year BS/MD, 7-Year BS/PharmD, and Early Acceptance Programs (EAPs) with LECOM. After seven years as an advisor at SUNY New Paltz, Mr. Mejias joined the Honors staff in 2005 and has since served a variety of roles. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in psychology, with a minor in philosophy, from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. A lifelong learner, Arnie completed advanced graduate work in student development at the University of Rhode Island, earned a Master of Arts Degree in adult education at USF, and completed a graduate certificate in biomedical ethics through the Morsani College of Medicine

Dan Nguyen (he/him) earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from the University of South Florida in 2017. From 2017 to 2024, he served as the academic program specialist for the Industrial and Management Systems Engineering Department at USF. As a first-generation college student and a Vietnamese American, Dan is passionate about advocating for diversity and inclusion, providing guidance and support to help students realize their full potential.

With a deep love for student engagement, Dan is thrilled to return to USF and work closely with students as they navigate their academic paths and shape their futures. Prior to his current role in the Judy Genshaft Honors College, Dan worked for New Student Connections and INTO USF. He currently advises all Honors students majoring in engineering, mathematics & statistics, and physics.

Dani Soluna joined the Honors team in July 2017 and has since served in a variety of roles. Prior to joining the Judy Genshaft Honors College, Dani worked primarily in residence life at Texas A&M University – Commerce and at the University of South Florida.

Dani earned her Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality, recreation, and resort management from the University of West Florida and her Master of Education Degree in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in college student affairs from the great University of South Florida (GO BULLS).

Dani is a first-generation college student who loves helping current students through all the highs and lows of their collegiate journey. Dani currently advises all Honors students on the St. Petersburg campus.

Samantha joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College in May of 2024 as its dedicated events coordinator. She graduated from the University of Tampa in 2020, where she received a degree in business management with magna cum laude distinction. During her time at the University of Tampa, she was a part of the honors program, National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and volunteered for various organizations, including her favorite – Paws for a Cause. During and after college, Samantha worked as a wedding & event planner for Confetti Events, a local wedding planning company in the Tampa Bay area. Samantha’s most recent experience in the event industry includes working at Armature Works as a venue coordinator/event operations supervisor, where she planned and executed around 130-150 events per year in four separate venue spaces, ranging from 25 to over 1,000 guests.

Originally from New Jersey, Samantha loves traveling back to visit her family and eat some good pizza and pork roll, egg, and cheese. She spends her spare time reading, watching NHL and NFL games with her (hopefully) soon to be fiancé, and planning weddings/trips/parties for her friends and family. She also enjoys spending time outside with her golden retriever puppy, Vasy, named after the Tampa Bay Lightning goalie.

As facility manager, Diana is dedicated to overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Judy Genshaft Honors College building, and ensuring its smooth functioning.

Prior to her current role, Diana served as assistant director of property management for USF Health. During her tenure, she expertly managed over two million square feet of educational, clinical, ambulatory, and office space. Her responsibilities encompassed diverse areas, such as project management, budgeting, negotiations, staff and vendor management, construction planning and execution, and providing valuable advice to leadership.

With a rich background as a real estate professional in the Tampa, Florida area for 15 years, Diana brings extensive experience and knowledge to her current position. Holding a Florida Real Estate Brokers license, a Florida Real Estate Sales Associates license, various professional certifications, and being a member of the National Association of Realtors, she possesses a deep understanding of both commercial and residential transactions.

Beyond her professional achievements, Diana is passionate about giving back to her community. She actively participates in service activities, such as feeding Tampa's homeless and assisting underprivileged children. Additionally, she finds joy in spending quality time with her family and two dogs. Hosting events at her home is one of her favorite ways to bring people together. When she's not working or engaging in community service, you can find Diana cheering for the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Tampa Bay Bucs. A successful workday often concludes with her enjoying the drive home, accompanied by open car windows and the radio playing – loudly.

Hannah first joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College as an Honors ambassador and later transitioned to full-time staff as the college’s space security specialist and supervisor for the Honors ambassadors team in January 2024. She completed her undergraduate studies in criminology and psychology at the University of South Florida, earning a minor in sociology with Honors and magna cum laude distinction.

During her time at USF, Hannah participated in the Honors study abroad Semester in Exeter, England, played in wind ensembles, and volunteered for various non-profits in the Tampa community. She remains an active volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Hannah is actively working toward a career in the Air Force and is currently applying for Officer Training School. Her passion lies in collaborating with different USF departments and creating safe spaces through environmental design. Recently, she received a professional designation from the National Institute of Crime Prevention.

Hannah is a Florida native and spends her time rollerblading, reading, cooking, or doing puzzles.

Joan Field joined the Honors College staff as the academic services administrator in January of 2005, before being promoted to assistant to the dean in October of 2014. She assists with Honors College class scheduling, hiring, student permits, thesis paperwork, and works with Ms. Hsieh on payroll and fiscal/budget matters. Previously, Ms. Field worked for more than 12 years at a private school for gifted and talented students with the last five years spent as school administrator. Ms. Field earned her Bachelor of Science in public relations with a minor in marketing from the University of Florida.

Adam joined the Honors College in 2018 as an affiliate faculty member. An interdisciplinary scholar with degrees in history, music, and American studies (MA), he has taught courses related to music, pop culture, ethics, and disability, as well as the first-year Acquisition of Knowledge course.  

In 2023, Adam began assisting the college with new initiatives focused on the audio/visual studio spaces in the new building. A multi-instrumentalist with a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance, he brings over 30 years of music performance and production experience to his role, including managing his own studio and music business, through which he created musical scores for live performance, film, and advertising. 

Adam oversees music-related initiatives in the college, leads the Honors Choir and Contemporary Music Ensemble, and supports students, staff, and faculty in the use of the multimedia and video production studios. He also provides A/V support for Honors events. 

Elisabeth Davis is an academic program specialist for both the Judy Genshaft Honors College and the College of Education as of June 2024. She also serves as a coordinator for the new Living Learning Community (LLC) on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus.

Prior to this position, Elisabeth worked as an admissions assistant at the State College of Florida, where she assisted in application processing, student advising, and coordinating recruiting events. She also tutored both undergraduate and graduate students in essay writing and English language skills and continues to do so today.

A proud USF alumna, Elisabeth earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2019 and plans to continue her academic journey by going back to school for a graduate degree in the near future.

Hannah graduated from the University of South Florida in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in public relations and advertising. During her time at USF, she served on the Panhellenic Executive Board as the vice president of public relations, raising awareness for multiple philanthropic organizations throughout the USF Panhellenic community, and working as a graphic design intern for USF Athletics.

In January 2024, Hannah began her journey with the Judy Genshaft Honors College, initially joining as a student marketing assistant. Upon her graduation, she stepped into the role of graphic designer in May 2024.

In her spare time, Hannah enjoys spending time with friends, visiting her family and partner in her hometown, indulging in her love for reading, and going to concerts.

Cathy Hsieh joined the Honors staff in December 2010. Prior to joining the Honors College, she worked in the Anchin Center as a fiscal specialist. She received her Master of Science degree in accounting from the University of West Florida. Ms. Hsieh handles business support services and fiscal requirements for the Honors College.

Judy Kane works with the dean and the college leadership team to carry out special projects for the Judy Genshaft Honors College. 

Prior to returning to her alma mater in the fall of 2005, Ms. Kane worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay for 15 years as Vice President of Development. After graduating from USF with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in mass communications (public relations and advertising), Ms. Kane spent 13 years working in the NFL at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in player personnel.

Marco graduated from the University of South Florida in May of 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. Prior to graduating, he worked as a student assistant and peer mentor in the Honors College. As advancement administrator, Marco works for the USF Foundation in donor relations, fund management, and scholarship administration. Marco has also previously participated in USF’s Common Reading Experience Selection Committee and studied abroad in Florence, Italy. Outside of USF, his hobbies include playing guitar, reading, and pet-sitting.

Audra joined the USF Judy Genshaft Honors College in 2021 as the Provost's Scholars Program advisor, after serving as an academic advisor to biomedical science majors and pre-health students in USF's Chemistry department. Prior to that, she coordinated co-ops and internships at Central Piedmont Community College (Charlotte, NC) and began her career in higher education as a high school recruiter in Central Piedmont’s admissions & recruitment department.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Wingate University (where she was an honors student-athlete), and taught elementary/middle school students for eight years before obtaining her master's in higher education administration from Western Carolina University. Audra has been working with college students for the past decade and is passionate about supporting students throughout their journey at USF, offering coaching and advising appointments for deeper conversations about setting and achieving personal and professional goals to prepare for life after college.

Outside of work, Audra enjoys reading, traveling, good food, films, and quality time with her husband and friends.

Joey Sousa joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College as its admissions coordinator in September, 2021. He earned his Bachelor of Science in environmental science & policy from USF in 2015. Prior to joining the Honors staff, Sousa has worked for various departments across USF, including the Office of Admissions, Innovative Education, and Undergraduate Studies. Aside from his role as the admissions Coordinator, Sousa also oversees the team of Honors student tour guides. Outside of his professional career, he enjoys playing board games, collecting vinyl records, and spending time with friends and family.

Dana Taylor is a creative leader with a passion for sharing the remarkable stories of the Judy Genshaft Honors College. Joining the Honors College in 2022, Dana brings years of experience from across the advertising, digital marketing, and higher education industries. Previously, Dana served as assistant director of marketing for the University of Missouri, where he helped spearhead multiple award-winning university initiatives and brand awareness campaigns.

Dana is originally from London, Ontario, Canada, where he earned a bachelor's degree with an honors specialization in English language and literature from Western University.

Daniel Woods joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College as the Honors student engagement coordinator in August, 2022. While completing his undergraduate degrees in international studies and administration of justice at Salve Regina University, Dan also spent a semester abroad in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Dan is dedicated to forging international relationships and interned for World Partnerships in St. Petersburg as special projects manager for five years. In addition, Dan worked in corporate investigations for TJX Corporation. Dan is passionate about the Atlanta Braves and spending time with his dogs, River and Sami.

Bezawit joined the Judy Genshaft Honors College as an Honors and Office of National Scholars ambassador in 2021 and transitioned into the role of facilities coordinator in May 2024. She is passionate about building and sustaining a collaborative, supportive, and healthy community for all. This passion has led her to various roles in customer service and environmental health and safety, including positions as a customer service representative and a student lab manager at the Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute. 

Bezawit earned her bachelor's degree in public health with a minor in environmental health from the University of South Florida. She now aims to continue learning and making a positive impact at the Honors College by aiding in building management and ensuring that guests and students are provided with a safe and welcoming environment.

Dr. Sayandeb Basu joined the Office of National Scholars (ONS) as its new director in May 2016 from the University of the Pacific in California, where he was faculty in physics and the honors college. Dr. Basu is a theoretical physicist and has published on quantum physics, and on the physics of black holes for more than a decade. He experienced a global education, including in India, at the University of Cambridge UK, and at the University of California, Davis, where he obtained his doctoral degree. Dr. Basu’s passion is nurturing students to become architects of their personal academic and professional goals. He had a successful stint at the University of the Pacific as the chief STEM liaison for the office of fellowships; where he combined his love of culture, language, international study experience and mentoring skills to help foster the cause for a campus culture where faculty, students, and peers joined forces to make student success a habit rather than a cliché. At the University of South Florida, he brings this enthusiasm and commitment to the ONS, to make his office one of the key hubs of achievement and intellectual accomplishments for USF students.

Ms. Chambers joined the Honors College in 2008, and the Office of National Scholars in 2011. She is currently the associate director of the Office of National Scholars (ONS), and the Fulbright Program Advisor (FPA) for USF. Ms. Chambers has lived in the Tampa Bay area for over 20 years and received her bachelor’s degree in public relations and master’s degree in public health from the University of Florida. She is a member of the National Association of Fellowships Advisors (NAFA) and has presented at NAFA conferences on the connection between appreciative advising and fellowships advising. Ms. Chambers published an article in the Journal of Appreciative Education titled “The Subtleties of Appreciative Advising: Expanding Practices Beyond the Conversation.”

Ms. Roberts joined the Office of National Scholars as assistant scholarship advisor in October 2017. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and biology from Denison University and a Master in Education, focusing on college student affairs, from the University of South Florida. She studied abroad in Kenya and Tanzania as an undergraduate and has wanted to work in international education ever since! She is excited to help students have amazing experiences that will change their lives forever.

Brett joined the Office of National Scholars in July 2023. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida with two minors - sociology of public policy and innovation. He participated in a legislative internship in Washington D.C. as an undergraduate student, which has fueled his desire to work with both study away and national scholarships that propel students into public service careers. As a first-generation college graduate, Brett is excited to connect students to life-changing experiences they might have never believed possible.