Meet Our Staff

Cortney Stein

Hello, my name is Cortney Stein. I am a born and raised South Floridian, who has always had a passion for learning and reading. During my undergraduate studies at FIU, I was fortunate to be exposed to many different subjects and topics while earning a B.A. in Liberal Arts.  I started my career at NSU in the University Call Center in 2002. It was during my time in that office that my passion for helping students, education, and writing drove me to complete my graduate degree here at NSU. I earned an M.A. in Writing, and then started working in the Tutoring and Testing Center in 2010.

One of the best parts of my job is getting to work closely with so many students. As I was forming my educational and professional goals and philosophies during my own schooling, I made many mentors in the supportive and interesting faculty and staff I met. Getting to be a part of that experience for students here at NSU is one of my favorite aspects of my role. I believe in fostering a creative, intellectual curiosity in students that fuels their passion to learn and explore the world beyond the obvious.

Melissa Montagna

Hello! My name is Melissa Montagna. I was born and raised in sunny South Florida. I received my Bachelor’s in English with a minor in Gender Studies right here at Nova Southeastern University. While an undergraduate, I was inspired by several members of the faculty to pursue my Master’s in English, which I later completed at Florida Atlantic University. During my graduate studies, I taught First-Year Writing courses, worked as a writing consultant, and acted as a community workshop speaker. My experiences both inside and outside the classroom showed me how important it is that students have access to academic support and that these services are equipped to meet their needs.

As an NSU alumna, I was thrilled to continue my career as a Shark and contribute to the resources that were so instrumental to me during my undergraduate career. As Associate Director, I work to provide the best tools and training possible for tutors, SI Leaders, peer academic consultants who are such pivotal members of our academic support team.  I find it very rewarding to be part of the academic support system that assists students to timely graduation and rewarding careers.

Wendy van Woerden

Hannah Grantham