McNair Alumni

Janeigh Castillo-Barraza, Ed.S. earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2014, a master's of education in May 2018 from the University of Georgia (UGA), and earned an Ed.S. degree from UGA in August 2019. Janeigh is currently a Psychologist II at Gwinnett County Public Schools in Suwanee, Georgia.

Kendra Haag earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences in May 2014 and earned a master of public health focused on health service administration from the University of Arizona in May 2021.

Mary Jacqueline Hernandez earned a bachelor’s degree in biological systems engineering in December 2016 and earned a master's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in May 2022. Jackie is the lead configuration analyst at Cerner Corporation in Kansas City, Missouri.

Erandi Herndon earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2015 and earned a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from Colorado State University in May 2017. Erandi is a bilingual youth therapist with the City of Longmont in the Department of Children, Youth, and Families.

Dina Morales earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2016.

Ivan Moreno-Hernandez, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry in May 2014 and a Ph.D. in chemistry from the California Institute of Technology in June 2019. Dr. Moreno is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Duke University.

David Pacheco earned a B.S. in mathematics in May 2015 and a M.S. in systems engineering in May 2018 from the Florida Institute of Technology. David is currently an aeronautics systems engineering manager at Northrop Grumman in Melbourne, Florida.

Olivia Reinert-Gehman earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2015. Olivia earned a master’s degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University in March 2018.

Eric Reiss earned a bachelor's degree in geology in August 2014.

Elia Soto, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2015, earned a master's degree in clinical psychology from Florida State University (FSU) in December 2019, and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at FSU in August 2022. Dr. Soto is a postdoctoral researcher working with the CARE lab and the ADHD Lifespan Treatment, Education, and Research (ALTER) lab at Syracuse University.

Jason Thomas, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in biological systems engineering in August 2014 and earned a Ph.D. in plant and microbial biology from the University of Minnesota in December 2019. Dr. Thomas is Founder and CEO of The Pennycress Company, which engineers and sells pennycress seeds so farmers can make extra income while helping all live more sustainably.

Alyssa (Yeates) Hachiya earned a bachelor's degree in biological sciences in May 2015 and is enrolled in the

Bridget Agnew earned a bachelor's degree in sociology and psychology in May 2013 and earned a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Austin in August 2023.

Emmilie Baker earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and women's & gender studies in May 2014. She is currently assisting in several labs at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, including the Subtle Prejudice Lab under Dr. Sarah Gervais, the Child Maltreatment Lab under Dr. David Hansen, and also in Dr. Debra Hope’s Clinical Lab.

Ross Benes earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and journalism in May 2013. He is a journalist who has worked for Esquire magazine and Deadspin.com, and has been published by The Wall Street Journal, Slate, Salon, Quartz, and Business Insider. He currently is the platforms reporter for Digiday.

Maggie (Gossard) Thompson earned a bachelor's degree in psychology in May 2013 and earned a master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology at the University of Nebraska–Omaha (UNO) in May 2015. She is currently a senior talent manager and organizational development specialist at Nebraska Medicine.

Eric Harmes earned a bachelor's degree in psychology in May 2013 and earned a master’s degree in counseling from Doane University in May 2016. Eric is the owner and Clinical Director of Wellspring Behavioral Health outpatient clinic in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Kenneth Herron earned a bachelor's degree in English in December 2013 and earned a student affairs in higher education master's degree from Colorado State University in May 2016.

Brooke Micek earned a bachelor’s degree in biological systems engineering in May 2014. She is a project engineer at Becton, Dickinson and Company Pharmaceutical Sciences in Columbus, Nebraska.

Moses Pacheco earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in May 2014 and earned a master's of science in civil engineering from Michigan State University in May 2016. He is a senior structural engineer at Burns & McDonnell in Kansas City, Missouri.

Nina Quiñones earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2014 and earned a master’s of social work degree from The Ohio State University in May 2016. Nina is a licensed Master Social Worker and is currently an access specialist in the Student Access Center at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia.

Joseph Tran earned a bachelor’s in biological systems engineering in December 2013. He is a support analyst for Cerner's retail pharmacy division in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Reinaldo Alcalde, Ph.D. earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering in May 2013. He earned a master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in December 2014 and earned a Ph.D. in environmental engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in December 2020. Dr. Alcalde is a postdoctoral scholar at the California Institute of Technology working in the Division of Biology and Biological Engineering and was awarded a 2022 NSF PRFB Postdoctoral Fellowship.

Misam Ali, J.D. earned a bachelor's degree in finance in May 2012 and earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Colorado-Boulder Law School in May 2015. Misam is a Presidential Management Fellow at the United States Department of Labor in Washington, D.C.

Mollie (Dittmer) Topil earned a bachelor's degree in psychology in May 2012 and earned a master’s degree in counseling from Doane College in December 2014. She is a licensed Mental Health Practitioner at the Lincoln Regional Center.

Brittany Jones earned a bachelor's degree in history in May 2012 and earned a master's degree in counselor education and a graduate certificate in marriage, couple, and family counseling from the University of Central Florida in December 2014.

Nathan Lilienthal earned a bachelor's degree in geology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2013.

Alyssa Lundahl, Ph.D. earned a bachelor's degree in psychology in May 2012 and earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology from UNL in May 2014. Dr. Lundahl attained her Ph.D. in developmental psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2016.

Christian Padilla earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in May 2013. He is currently a project manager engineer at Mubea, Inc., in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

Karina Pedroza earned a bachelor's degree in psychology in December 2012 and earned a master's degree in management, with an emphasis in leadership from Briar Cliff University in December 2021. Karina is currently a Title III project manager at Western Iowa Tech Community College in Sioux City, Iowa.

Katie Bailey, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree from the Eppley Cancer Institute at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in May 2017. She is currently working as a postdoctoral fellow conducting pancreatic cancer research in the Department of Pathology and Microbiology at UNMC.

Karise Curtis, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in criminal justice from the University at Albany, SUNY in December 2012 and a Ph.D. in criminal justice with a focus on comparative criminology of homicide from the University at Albany, SUNY in December 2018. Dr. Curtis is a data scientist at Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.

Justin Escamilla, Ph.D. earned a master's degree in criminology, law, and justice at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) in May 2013 and earned a Ph.D. in criminology, law, and justice at UIC in May 2017. Dr. Escamilla is a research analyst for the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.

Melissa Garfield earned a master’s degree in anthropology from Washington State University (WSU) in May 2015. She is the Education Services Coordinator for AmVn Exchange in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Zachary Garfield, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in anthropology from Washington State University (WSU) in May 2015 and a Ph.D. in anthropology from WSU in August 2019. Dr. Garfield is a postdoctoral research fellow at The Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse, France and maintains an affiliation at Washington State University as Adjunct Faculty in the Department of Anthropology. He is also co-director of The Omo Valley Research Project.

Alex Goldstein, M.D. earned a doctor of medicine degree from Paul Foster School of Medicine at Texas Tech University in December 2015. He completed his residency in internal medicine and is pursuing specialty training in nephrology and critical care medicine through Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.

Alan Goyzueta earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2013. Alan is currently working as a mechanical engineer with Rockwell Collins in Irvine, California.

Michelle Haikalis, Ph.D. earned a master's degree in clinical psychology in May 2014 from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from UNL in August 2019. Dr. Haikalis is an assistant professor in the Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences at Brown University.

Arianne Holland earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and women's & gender studies in May 2012.

Kaitlin Leslie earned a bachelor's degree in forensic science in May 2012.

Jeff Lopez, Ph.D. earned a master's degree in chemical engineering from Stanford University in June 2014 and earned a Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Stanford in February 2018. Dr. Lopez is an Assistant Professor in the Chemical and Biological Engineering Department at Northwestern University.

Tyler Scherr, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree in pathology and microbiology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in December 2016. Dr. Scherr is currently working as a Licensing Intern at UNeMed, the technology transfer arm of UNMC and UNO.

Brittany Brakenhoff, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in human development and family science from Ohio State University (OSU) in December 2012 and earned a Ph.D. in couple and family therapy at OSU in May 2018. Dr. Brakenhoff is a research assistant professor in the Center on Children, Families, and the Law (CCFL) at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Morgan McCain, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in counseling psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2013 and earned a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from UNL in August 2017. She is currently a psychologist at the University of Houston’s Counseling and Psychological Services.

Michael Gubbels earned a master’s degree in computer science, focused on human-computer interaction, from the University of Maryland-College Park in August 2015. He is a Senior Software Engineer at Lilt, a computer software company in San Francisco, California.

Michael Harpster earned a M.Arch degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2013. He is currently working with Sinclair Hille Architects in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Drew Nelson is a senior exploration geoscientist at Concho Resources in Midland, Texas.

Beth Ridling has maintained a CCRP certification since 2016 and is a clinical research specialist at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri.

Andrea Rieger earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2010.

Jeanette Samuels, J.D. earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Chicago-Kent College of Law in May 2013. Jeanette has established her own law firm, Samuels & Associates, Ltd., in Chicago, Illinois.

Brian Shreck, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree in political science from Texas A&M University in December 2015. Dr. Shreck is the Principal Economic and Policy Analyst in the Office of Management and Budget for the State of Rhode Island.

Sherri Sklenar earned a bachelor's degree in anthropology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2011.

Joshua Alvarez, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Maryland in May 2011 and a Ph.D. in higher education leadership from Colorado State University in May 2023. He serves as the Director of Employer Relations at the Colorado State University Career Center.

Rebecca Beals, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in sociology in May 2011 from the University of New Mexico and earned her Ph.D. in sociology from UNM in May 2016. Dr. Beals is currently an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Northern Colorado.

Jeff Belmont, M.D. earned a master’s degree in public health from Tulane University in May 2014 and a doctor of medicine degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at New Orleans in May 2019.

Khoa Chu earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in May 2001. He is a spaceship propulsion design senior engineer at Virgin Galactic.

Tara (Cossel) Morton earned a master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of Memphis in August 2012. She is currently a senior manager services leader at Tableau Software.

Kyle Jackson earned a bachelor's degree in environmental studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2009.

Willie Novotny, M.D. earned a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine in May 2013. Dr. Novotny is engaged in a family medicine residency at the Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, New York.

Chelsea (Rivera) Augustine earned a bachelor's degree in child, youth, and family studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2009.

Adrian Soltero earned a master's degree in electrical engineering from Texas A&M University in December 2011. Adrian is employed as an analog field applications engineer for Texas Instruments in the California bay area and is responsible for several top tier Silicon Valley tech companies.

Mo Wax earned a master's degree in student affairs at Central Missouri University in Warrensburg in May 2011. He’s currently the Director of Philanthropy at Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Juan Cangas earned a bachelor's degree in psychology with high distinction in May 2009. Juan is a talent advisor at the Avenue Scholars Foundation in Omaha, Nebraska.

Acacia Caraballo earned a master's of teaching degree from Willamette University in June 2014. She is a mathematics teacher and part of the Racial Equity Group at Seven Oak Middle School in Lebanon, Oregon.

Martin Diaz, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Delaware in December 2011 and a Ph.D. in photovoltaic engineering from the University of New South Wales in March 2017.

Emily (Haferbier) Trotter earned a master's degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2009. She is currently working for Lincoln Public Schools as a campus supervisor for the Science Focus Program.

Sahar Hasim, Ph.D. achieved a doctoral degree in biological sciences from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2013. Dr. Hasim is an assistant professor in the Department of Biology at Mercer University.

Yaravi Lopez-Wilson earned a master of architecture degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2010.

Masoud Mahjouri Samani, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree in electrical engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2013. Dr. Mahjouri Samani is an assistant professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Auburn University.

Corey Minchow earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2007.

Maegan Stevens-Liska earned a master’s degree in information science and learning technology from the University of Missouri-Columbia in May 2013. Maegan is the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Global Affairs at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Abby Visty is currently a building automation system and intelligent services account manager for Trane–Ingersoll Rand in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Joshua Avila earned a bachelor’s degree in textiles, clothing, and design from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2008.

Lorene Beaudette earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2006.

LaToya Benally earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2007 and earned a master's degree in grant writing, management and evaluation at Concordia University in Chicago in May 2020.

Justine Buffalo Calf earned a bachelor’s degree in child, youth, and family studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2007.

Orlando Cariaga

Amy Castro earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2008.

Sara Khalil earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2007.

Andrea Lowe earned a master of public administration degree from the University of Missouri–Kansas City in May 2013.

Stephanie Matejka earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2008.

Phuoc Nguyen earned a master’s degree in biological sciences from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2011.

Amanda Ponce earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2008. She is currently an Assistant Director of Diversity and Community Outreach for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Office of Admissions.

MinJeong Schneider earned a master's degree in chemical engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2011.

Jenna Valadez earned a master's degree in native American history from Southern Methodist University in May 2010.

Azure Wall is enrolled in the public administration master's program at the University of Nebraska–Omaha. She is also currently working as an independent project manager to design and implement the Omaha/Council Bluffs metropolitan area's coordinated entry system for federally funded emergency shelters and housing providers serving people experiencing homelessness.

Todd Whitehill is currently a regional manager for Ameritas Life in Seattle, Washington.

Dulce Clarence earned a master's degree in human services from Bellevue University in May 2008, and a clinical counseling master's degree from Bellevue University in May 2012.

Enriqueta Dailey earned a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2008.

Danielle (Deschene) Leeper earned a master's degree in speech-language pathology and audiology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, August 2008.

Tadiyos Gebre earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2006.

Erica (Ginn) Holley, Ph.D. earned her doctoral degree in management from the University of Washington in 2012. Dr. Holley is an Associate Professor in the Department of Management at Central Washington University.

Brandon Levander earned a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2014.

Danielle (Luther) Luebbe earned a master's degree in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in May 2009. She is currently a writer and social media producer at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska, as well as an adjunct instructor at Southeast Community College.

Anitra (Mallory) Warrior, Ph.D. earned her master’s degree in educational psychology in December 2007 and earned her Ph.D. in psychological studies in education in August 2015 from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Dr. Warrior is currently working with the Minority Health Disparities Initiative and, together with the Nebraska Indian Center, is coordinating activities for the Nebraska Intertribal Health and Research Coalition.

Nathan Palmer, Ph.D. earned a master's degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2008 and earned a Ph.D. in sociology from UNL in May 2017. Dr. Palmer is an assistant professor of Sociology at Georgia Southern University.

Lindsey (Richters) Chizinski earned a master's degree in natural resource sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in May 2012. She is a lecturer in the School of Natural Resources and is the principal investigator of the Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation (ABC) Lab at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Erica Rogers, Ph.D. earned a master's degree in English from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2012 and earned her Ph.D. in the English at UNL in May 2017. She is currently a visiting associate professor-lecturer at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

Eric Shepard earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2006.

Ruth (Standeven) Friedman earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2007.

Hope (Van Houten) Bleckwehl completed a master's degree in School Counseling at the University of Northern Iowa, May 2008. She is currently an elementary school counselor in Waukee, Iowa.

Jessica Wall earned a master's degree in History in May 2009. She is currently the Children's Librarian at Wilson Public Library in Cozad, Nebraska.

Olabode Alabi earned a master's degree in industrial and management systems engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2010.

Tia Cole earned a master's degree in English from the University of Nebraska–Omaha in May 2010.

Tony Gorman II earned a master's degree in public media from Ohio University in August 2015. He is currently the general manager of KDLL 91.9 FM, a public radio station in Kenai, Alaska.

Shaneice Hicks earned a master's degree in elementary education from the University of Nebraska–Omaha, August 2007 and a second master’s in educational leadership in June 2012 from Doane College. She is currently Dean of Students for Omaha Public Schools.

Natasha Luepke earned a masters in English from Oregon State University, with a specialization in literature and culture.

Arlo McKee earned a master's degree in anthropology at the University of Kansas-Lawrence in December 2009. He is pursuing a Ph.D. in geographic information systems at the University of Texas at Dallas and received a 2015-16 Pioneer Graduate Fellowship, funded by Pioneer Natural Resources. He is employed as a terrestrial archeologist/geoarcheologist at the Texas Historical Commission.

Camilo Ramirez earned a master's degree in political science from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. He is currently an events manager for The Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C.

Kacie (Rehder) Schrader is enrolled at the University of Phoenix in the marriage, family and child therapy masters program.

Randi Strope earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2005.

Melissa Tehee, J.D., Ph.D. earned a master's degree in psychology from Western Washington University in June 2007, a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Arizona in May 2012, and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, policy, and law at the University of Arizona in August 2015. Dr. Tehee is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology, and Director of the American Indian Support Project at Utah State University.

Kristy Theilen earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2004.

Olamide Alabi, M.D. earned a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in May 2010.

Brett Avila earned a master's of public health degree from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health in July 2006. In 2013, he established Harvest of Dreams, L.L.C., a public health consulting business. He is also currently teaching high school Spanish, psychology, and human development in Sidney, Nebraska.

Tara (Boren) Blesh earned a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Creighton University in May 2014. She is currently a clinical pharmacist at Children's Hospital & Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Potso Byndon, J.D. earned a Juris Doctor degree from North Carolina Central University’s School of Law in May 2011.

Uyen Chu, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree in pharmacology, with a specialization in molecular and cellular pharmacology, from the University of Wisconsin in May 2011. Dr. Chu is an active duty officer and scientist in the United States Army. She is currently working in the clinical lab at Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC) in Honolulu, Hawaii.

LuAnne Cook is a high school special education teacher in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Heather Flores, Ph.D. earned her doctoral degree in genetics and development from Cornell University in May 2012. Dr. Flores is a research manager with the Eliminate Dengue World Mosquito Program at Monash University in Clayton, Victoria, Australia.

Marlene Grayer-Chisulo, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in 2009 and earned a Ph.D. in educational studies with a specialization in teaching, curriculum and learning from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2021.

Frederick Grizzard earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2003.

Leng Hua earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2006.

Toni Leija-Wilson, J.D. earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2008.

Donald McCauley III earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2003.

Hung Nguyen, Ph.D. earned a master's in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan in August 2006, and attained his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from the University of Texas-Austin in December 2013. Dr. Nguyen is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Montreal Institute of Geriatrics in Montreal, Canada.

Le Thi Hong Nguyen earned a master of architecture degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology in December 2008.

Sandra Plata-Potter, Ph.D. earned her master's degree in educational psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2008, and she earned her Ph.D. in human sciences from UNL in August 2012. Dr. Plata-Potter is an associate professor in the Department of Inclusive Education at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

Darryle (DJ) Todd, Jr., earned a master’s degree in counseling and personnel services at the University of Louisville in May 2006. He is currently the Coordinator for Multicultural Affairs at Marquette University.

Dana Tran earned a bachelor’s degree in architectural studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2006.

Lawrence Chatters, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in educational psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2004 and earned a Ph.D. in educational psychology with a specialization in counseling psychology from UNL in August 2018. Dr. Chatters is the Director of Community Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives within the Office of the Chancellor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Tuan Dao earned a master’s degree in management from Bellevue University in August 2009.

Chabria Dorsey-Easter earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of North Dakota in May 2016. She is currently working as a program specialist for It’s My Community Initiative in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Tessa Durham Brooks, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree in cellular and molecular biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in August 2009. Dr. Durham Brooks is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Doane University.

Tricia (Echtenkamp) Foley, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree in chemical and biomolecular engineering from Cornell University in May 2009. Dr. Foley is an assistant professor of chemistry at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, California.

Carmen Gonzalez earned a master’s degree in literature from the University of Northern Colorado in May 2006.

Eric Henning, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Temple University in January 2005, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Temple University in August 2009. Dr. Henning is engaged in private practice in Norfolk, Nebraska.

Lorena Hernandez earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2001.

Curtis Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2002.

Marcella Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2002.

Malay Khammaly earned a master's of professional accountancy degree from Georgia State University in January 2009.

Tamara Marisett earned a master's degree in elementary education from the University of Nebraska–Omaha in August 2005.

Plesence McKinney earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Nebraska–Omaha in December 2003.

Tauheedah Najeeullah earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Arizona State University in December 2005.

Erin Nguyen earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2002.

Erin Nicholson earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2003.

Craig Peters

Magdala Rice earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling at Southern Illinois University Carbondale in December 2006.

Sallie Rinkol earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2003.

Molly Ruhlman, Ph.D. earned her doctoral degree in political science from Temple University in May 2013. Dr. Ruhlman is a lecturer in Political Science at Towson University and teaches courses in global governance, international law, and human rights.

Sheriece Sadberry, Ph.D. earned a master's degree in education from the University of Missouri-Columbia (MU) in May 2006, and a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from MU in August 2010. Dr. Sadberry is self-employed in a private practice as a licensed counseling and sport psychologist in Tampa, Florida, as well as contracting her services to the University of Tampa Athletics Department.

Melissa Saddler earned a master’s degree in public affairs from the University of Missouri in May 2004.

Misty Thomas earned a master's degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2006.

Larry Voegele earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2002.

Amy Wettstead earned a bachelor’s degree in university studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2002.

Jennifer BearEagle, J.D. earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Law in May 2008.

Corey Hahn earned a master's degree in electrical engineering from Pennsylvania State University in May 2005. He is an electrical engineer at Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company.

Alphonso Mayfield earned a master's degree in mass communications from Jackson State University in May 2004.

Katherine Morgan, J.D. earned a Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School in May 2005.

Yen Nguyen earned a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in May of 2004.

Latasha Partlow earned a master's degree in community and regional planning from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2003 and a master's of business administration from Texas Woman's University in December 2009.

Myesha (Albert) Applewhite, Ph.D. earned a master's degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2003 and a Ph.D. in criminology from the University of Texas at Dallas in August 2018. Dr. Applewhite is currently working at the University of Texas at Dallas School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences Children and Families Lab as a school visit coordinator.

David Baker earned a master’s degree in anthropology from Indiana University Bloomington in May 2005.

Amy Bearskin earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2002.

Naomi Bowlin–Hernandez earned a master's degree in education, with a specialization in curriculum and instruction, from the University of Maryland–College Park in May 2004.

Michael Carl earned a bachelor’s degree in classics and religious studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2011.

Yolando Castellanos earned a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 1999.

Farida Ebrahim earned a master’s degree in public health from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in December 2011.

Karen Frizzell earned a master's degree in English from Creighton University in May 2002 and also earned a master’s degree of information sciences and learning technology from the University of Missouri–Columbia in May 2005.

Rye Hicks–McIntosh earned a master’s of public administration and master’s of social work from the University of Nebraska–Omaha in May 2006.

Lori Kreifel earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology, political science, and English from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 1999.

Carl Libby earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Southern California in May 2006.

Daniel Pelham earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Morehouse College in May 2000.

Marco Ramirez earned a master's degree in counseling, with a specialization in marriage & family therapy from California State University–Fullerton in December 2010. Marco is a marriage and family therapist for Orange County in Anaheim, California.

Barbara Shamburg earned a master’s degree in educational psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2002.

Lindsay Ham, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2001, and earned a Ph.D. in psychology from UNL in August 2004. Dr. Ham is a Professor and Director of Clinical Training in the Department of Psychological Science at the University of Arkansas, and the Director of the Laboratory for Anxiety and Substance Abuse Research.

Cuong Nguyen, Ph.D. earned a doctoral degree in immunology in May 2006 from the University of Florida. Dr. Nguyen is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathology at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

Josh Wiehn earned a master’s degree in engineering mechanics from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2001.

Marianna Burks, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2000, earned a master’s degree in animal science from UNL in December 2002, and earned a doctoral degree in educational studies with a specialization in teaching, curriculum, and learning from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 2022. Dr. Burks is an Assistant Professor of Practice for the School of Biological Sciences and the Science Specialist for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln TRIO Scholars Program.

Fredrick Cham earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1998 and a master’s degree in electronic commerce from Creighton University in 2002. Fred is a manager at the Department of Homeland Security.

Jennifer Clark earned a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology in 1998. She earned a master’s degree in communication disorders for Auburn University in 2001 and a second master’s degree in communicative disorders from the University of Louisiana-Monroe in 2007.

Farrah Gafford Cambrice, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology in 1999, a master’s degree in sociology from the University of North Texas in 2001, and earned a Ph.D. in sociology from Tulane University in December 2008. She is currently an Associate Professor in the Division of Social Work, Behavioral and Political Sciences at Prairie View A&M University.

Shoshana Herman earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1999 and a master’s degree in information science and learning technology from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2014.

Jessi Kerl earned a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology in May 2000 and earned a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and audiology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2002.

Kenneth Lantz earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2000.

Nixon Marroquin earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2000.

Susan McCollum-Wood earned a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 1998.

Kacie (Moore) Blalock, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Southern University in May 2000 and a Ph.D. in rehabilitation counseling psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in August 2005. Dr. Blalock is an associate professor of counseling in the Department of Psychology at Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

Venita Murillo

Dzuan Nguyen earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics in December 2000 and a Pharm.D. degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in May 2012.

Melissa Norberg, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in May 2002 and attained a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the UW-M in August 2006. She is an Associate Professor and the Deputy Director of the Centre for Emotional Health at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia.

Thao Pham earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 1999.

Daralyn Plains, Ph.D. earned a master’s degree in counseling psychology in May 2000 from Southern Methodist University and a Ph.D. in school psychology from Texas Woman’s University in May 2007. Dr. Plains is a Behavioral Health & Social Service Providers Psychologist at Prestige Evaluation and Consulting Services, LLC.

Deborah Roelfs earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2000.

Steve Stephens earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in August 2003 and earned a master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2006.

Camille Torok earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and English from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2001.

Phe Bach, Ed.D. earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from California State University-Sacramento in May 2005. Dr. Bach attained an Ed.D. in educational leadership and management from Drexel University in March 2014.

Beverly Howard earned a master’s degree in agricultural education from North Carolina A&T State University in May 2004.

Sharon Hubl earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 1997.

Quang Le earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in May 1998 and a master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2003.

Flora Murillo earned a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology in 1998 and earned a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and audiology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2001.

Jennise NerisMolina

Rebecca Amen

Judith Brown earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 1995.

Ngoc Cao earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 1998.

Amy Dickey-Malander earned a bachelor’s degree in education in May 1998, a master’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in August 2000, and an Ed.S. degree from UNK in August 2002.

Kris Flammang

Colleen Flores earned a bachelor’s degree in university studies in December 1999 and a master’s degree in museum studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 2006.

Deonna (Foster) Wilemme, Ed.D. earned a M.Ed. from the University of Louisiana at Monroe in 1999 and an Ed.D. in instruction and curriculum from the University of Memphis in August 2011.

Clayton Friesen, M.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences in May 1998 and a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in May 2002.

Michael Garcia, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in English in December 1999, a master’s degree in English language and literature from Cornell University in January 2003 and a Ph.D. in English language and literature from Cornell University in August 2007. Dr. Garcia is an Associate Professor of Literature at Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York.

Jeffrey Garza earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in May 1998 and a master’s degree in statistics from Texas Tech University, Lubbock in August 2000.

Danielle Hamilton earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in May 1999 and a master’s degree in social work from Rutger’s University in January 2008.

Mark Hankla earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology August 1996 and a master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 1998.

Eve (Hererra) Rosno, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 1998, a master’s degree in clinical child psychology from the University of Kansas in May 2000, and attained a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from KU in May 2005. After 12 years of practicing psychology at a local non-profit, Dr. Rosno has begun working online to bring her experience as a psychologist and a mother to help other moms find more peace, joy and purpose in their lives.

Amy Jimenez earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in December 1999 and a master’s degree in nursing from the Walden University in November 2015.

Ericka Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 1997 and a master’s degree in educational psychology from Louisiana Tech University in May 2003.

Jill Krause earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 1996.

David Mather earned a bachelor’s degree in geology in May 1996 and earned a master’s degree in geography from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in May 1999.

Jane Meza, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in May 1996, a master’s degree in mathematics and statistics from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 1998, and attained her Ph.D. in mathematics and statistics from UNL in August 2000. Dr. Meza is the Associate Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Sheila Nelson earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology in May 1996 and earned a master’s degree in sociology from Texas Southern University in May 2000.

Anh Nguyen earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in May 1998 and a master’s degree in technical management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in November 2008.

Phong Nguyen earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and exercise science in May 1997 and a master’s degree in health and human performance from UNL in August 2000.

Brittawni Olson earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in August 1996 and a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in May 1999.

Olatoyosi Olude-Afolabi, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science in May 1998, a master’s degree in systems science from SUNY Binghamton in January 2004, and attained a Ph.D. from SUNY Binghamton in May 2010. Dr. Olude-Afolabi is a patent examiner for the U.S. Patent and Trademark’s Artificial Intelligence Unit and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Software Design at Northern Virginia Community College.

Karen Pinkelman earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in December 1996 and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Doane University in August 2009.

Letha Pugh earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 1997.

Brian Ramirez earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 1998, a Psy.D. in clinical psychology from Wright State University in September 2003, and a master’s degree in nursing, with a focus on psychiatric-mental health from Vanderbilt University in August 2009.

Rachel Ramirez, J.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 1998 and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in May 2004.

Robyn Seals earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 1997 and a master’s degree in educational administration from UNL in May 1999.

Margaret Snyder earned a bachelor’s degree in human development and the family in December 1996 and a master’s degree in counseling from Doane University in August 2003

Michelle (Stone) Kiel earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 1998, a master’s degree in educational psychology from UNL in December 1999, and an educational specialist degree from UNL in August 2001. Michelle is a school psychologist working at Omaha Public Schools.

Matthew Swain earned a bachelor’s degree in drafting design technology in May 1998.

Rafael Vigil earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in May 1999 and master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin in May 2002.

David Vu, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in August 1997, a master’s degree in chemical engineering from UNL in December 1999, and attained a Ph.D. in engineering from UNL in December 2005. Dr. Vu is a chemical engineer at Kamterter Products LLC, a private company with focus on seed coating and crop spraying device design.

Tasha Wade earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 1998 and a master’s degree in community counseling from Chicago State University in December 2000.

Colette Yellow Robe, Ph.D. earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology in May 2000, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in August 2003, and attained a Ph.D. in educational studies, with a specialization in teaching, curriculum, and learning from the UNL in December 2014. Dr. Yellow Robe is an Assistant Professor of Indigenous Education at Bishop’s University in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada.