With over 20 years of experience in higher education, I've dedicated my career to helping students navigate their academic journeys. I specialize in assisting those who are undecided about their major or program, and I'm committed to creating a safe, challenging and safe supportive environment where every student feels empowered to achieve their dreams. My Background  I'm a proud graduate of several Michigan universities. I earned my bachelor's degree from Calvin College, my MBA from Western Michigan University, and an Educational Leadership Certificate from GVSU, where I most recently worked. I also just completed my PH.D. IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP from Eastern Michigan University. The Ph.D. process was a long and difficult journey, but it taught me the importance of perseverance and never giving up.  When I'm not working, I love spending time with my family, especially my grandson. Let's Connect I offer both virtual and in-person appointments, so you can choose the option that works best for you. If you have a quick question, you can reach me by email at SWHITE@GRCC.EDU. I look forward to connecting with you soon! Schedule a virtual or in-person appointment Current schedule Monday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.  (in-person and virtual appointments) Tuesday: 8 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. (in-person and virtual appointments) Wednesday: 8 a.m.to 4 p.m. (in-person and virtual appointments) Thursday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (virtual appointments only) Friday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.   (in-person and virtual appointments) Degrees and Certifications BA, MBA, Ed.S. Ph.D.

Carrie has been a key member of the Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) Information Technology team since 2019. In their role as EA to the Associate VP of IT/Chief Information Officer, and Information Technology Division, Carrie manages office operations, coordinates schedules, conducts research, and supports various tasks to assist the Vice President and division leadership. With an Associate of Business from GRCC, Carrie brings a deep understanding of Higher Education business and operations. They are a subject matter expert within the division, providing vital support in the execution of process and procedure-driven events. Known for their exceptional customer service skills and ability to interact effectively with individuals at all levels, Carrie plays a critical role in supporting the Information Technology team in achieving their strategic goals. www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-magnanti

Ell Simpson is a support professional in the Marketing & Communications Department. A key member of the team, Simpson helps tell the stories of students, faculty and staff and of how a GRCC education changes lives. Simpson earned a Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies from Ferris State University in 2017, with an emphasis on Multicultural Relations and Professional Writing as well as a Technical Writing Certificate. A first-generation college student, Simpson has used their talents and the experiences of their personal journey to assist GRCC students through a variety of positions since joining the staff in 2012. Simpson has served as a professional tutor, a Fast Track/On Track facilitator and a paired reading mentor.

Jackie Araiza started her journey at GRCC as a first-generation college student. Over her 8-year at GRCC, she has contributed her skills to various departments, displaying a commitment to assisting students in navigating the college process. Recognizing the excitement and challenges inherent in choosing a career and navigating college, Jackie invites individuals to reach out, expressing her eagerness to provide assistance. Initially joining as a student employee at the Lakeshore Campus while pursuing her Associates of Arts, which she successfully earned in 2019, Jackie later transitioned to the College Success Center. Continuing her academic pursuits, she transferred to Grand Valley State University, where she obtained her Bachelor's in social work. Subsequently, Jackie took on a role in the Student Financials department. In 2021, Jackie achieved her Bachelor's degree in social work and is presently pursuing her Master's in Clinical Social Work at the University of Michigan. She now serves as the Admissions and Enrollment Coordinator and Lakeshore Campus Lead for GRCC's Lakeshore Campus in Holland, Michigan, Jackie is dedicated to supporting new students in navigating the admissions and enrollment process, bringing her wealth of experience to assist individuals on their educational journey. " Here to Help: First-generation college grad Jaqueline Araiza helps students navigate admissions process " Jackie Araiza inició su trayectoria en GRCC como estudiante universitaria de primera generación. A lo largo de sus 8 años de servicio, ha aportado sus habilidades a varios departamentos, mostrando un compromiso ferviente para ayudar a los estudiantes a navegar por el proceso universitario. Reconociendo la emoción y los desafíos inherentes a la elección de una carrera y la navegación universitaria, Jackie invita a las personas a comunicarse, expresando su entusiasmo por brindar asistencia. Ingresó inicialmente como empleada estudiantil en el Campus Lakeshore mientras perseguía su Asociado en Artes, que obtuvo con éxito en 2019. Más tarde, Jackie se trasladó al Centro de Éxito Estudiantil. Continuando con sus estudios, se transfirió a la Universidad Estatal de Grand Valley, donde obtuvo su licenciatura en trabajo social. Posteriormente, Jackie asumió un papel en el departamento de Finanzas Estudiantiles. En 2021, Jackie obtuvo su licenciatura en trabajo social y actualmente está cursando su Maestría en Trabajo Social Clínico en la Universidad de Michigan. Ahora se desempeña como Coordinadora de Admisiones y Matrícula y Líder del Campus Lakeshore para el Campus Lakeshore de GRCC en Holland, Michigan. Jackie está dedicada a apoyar a los nuevos estudiantes en la navegación del proceso de admisión y matrícula, aportando su amplia experiencia para ayudar a las personas en su trayectoria educativa.

Sheena Weaver is here to help in the Student Life and Conduct Office. As the office manager, Sheena handles the daily administration and support of student clubs and organizations. This includes student org. budgeting, room/event registrations, and guiding students through starting up a student organization. Sheena also works with Phi Theta Kappa, GRCC's international honor society, by processing and accepting applications for eligible students. Another big part of her work, and one of her favorites, is ordering supplies for the GRCC Student Food Pantry and making sure the shelves are stocked and ready for students. "The look on a student's face when you are able to help them reduce their stress and worry, about feeding their family, is so rewarding and makes me love what I do," she says.     Everyday Sheena looks forward to working with new students, staff and faculty. She is inspired by meeting students from all walks of life, and enjoys learning about them. "We have a diverse population of students that I can relate to," she says. "And learning about them motivates me to help them in any way I can." Sheena shared that attending GRCC was the best decision she ever made, and she wants current students to have the same experience. When Sheena became a mom in high school so many people told her that meant she would have to give up on going to college. She was determined to prove everyone wrong -- and she did. "Anyone is able to overcome all odds regardless of what others say or believe," she says. "You are in control of your future and leave your everlasting mark."    Sheena applied and was accepted to GRCC in 2010 and that was the start of the educational journey she is still on. She graduated GRCC in 2014 with an associate degree, and transferred to Ferris State University to begin working on a bachelor's in integrative studies. Initially Sheena worked as a contingent employee for GRCC while working at other organizations. Then, in 2019 she was hired as a full time member of the student life team. "I have always found myself returning back to GRCC and that was when I knew it must be meant to be," she says. "I must be here to help students and it has been so rewarding."