Meet the UAAC Staff

Jamila Adams

Hi, my name is Jamila Adams. I am a South Florida native who has earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and Master of Science in Mathematics Education from Nova Southeastern University. My favorite thing about advising is learning the different backgrounds and seeing the smiles on student’s faces.

Delisha Ali

Hi, my name is Delisha Ali and I grew up right here in South Florida. I earned a Bachelor’s in Health Administration from Florida Atlantic University. The best part about working with the Undergraduate Academic Advising Center is knowing that we are assisting students in pursuing their educational and professional goals, as well as being the “support system” they need to succeed.

Janet Anderson

Hi – my name is Janet Anderson. I was born in London, England and moved to south Florida more than 20 years ago.  Shortly after arriving here, I joined the NSU family where I have served in various capacities and earned a B.S. in Psychology and a M.S. in Criminal Justice.

I have always found great pleasure in helping others and discovered my calling just over 11 years ago when I was hired as an Academic Advisor in the UAAC. I feel very fortunate to be afforded the opportunity to partner with you on this journey of exploration, discovery and turning dreams into realities!

Advice I give to my students Is found in a quote from Moliere: "The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it.”  Really – think about an achievement you are most proud of…

Laura Barry

Sheara Brown-Gbenro

Hi my name is Sheara Brown-Gbenro and I am a native Floridian. I’ve worked with Nova Southeastern University for eleven years. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Barry University and a Master of Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Prior to becoming an academic advisor I spent 10 years in public relations and customer service.

One thing about me you should know is that I collect model cars.

My favorite quote - You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. “You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.” (Dr. Seuss)

Alkin Cadet

Hello All! My name is Alkin Cadet. I am a lover of food, fashion, writing, and music. I also love helping others and I wear my heart on my sleeve when it comes to helping people succeed. My passion for service led me to pursuing my BA in English at Florida International University, in hopes of becoming an English teacher. After graduation, my path shifted and I landed in the non-profit sector. My professional experience with youth-centered organizations ignited a flame within and drove me to learn more about public service. I became a Shark when I applied for graduate school and I am fortunate to say I have not looked back since.  I received my Masters of Public Administration and shortly after became a part of the Undergraduate Academic Advising Center team! I am always learning new ways to navigate this ocean of life, but I will always make a big wave wherever I go. FINS UP!

Grecia Chami

Hello, my name is Grecia Chami and I was born and raised in Trinidad, West Indies. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at NSU, and through my involvement in a community-based internship, I was offered a position in a non-profit child welfare agency that would change the course of my life. Eventually, I returned to NSU and gained a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, continuing my work within the social services field during that time. I absolutely enjoyed my time at NSU and can personally attest to the benefits that involvement in internship/externship opportunities and other campus activities have to offer. I am motivated by the opportunity to assist others in achieving their goal of higher education and exploring the possibilities that lie ahead following graduation.

Outside of the office, my interests include playing pool, going to the theater, movies, gardening and cooking. I enjoy learning new things and doing projects around the house and can likely spend hours walking around (*insert favorite electronics store here) checking out the new tech. I believe that we should all be inspired every day to find moments of happiness, whatever they may be.

I look forward to engaging with my students to help them make their time at NSU as enjoyable and beneficial an experience as it was in my life. Go Sharks!!!

Lauren Dubosky

Hi! My name is Lauren Dubosky. I was born and raised in Pennsylvania where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from The Pennsylvania State University. After graduating from Penn State, I focused my efforts in helping others in the Human Services field. Not long after, I relocated to South Florida and began working in Higher Education. I soon realized that helping students was my passion. I look at the student’s time here at NSU as an opportunity to embrace new experiences and challenges which help you grow both professionally and personally. I am honored to play a role in the many resources here at Nova Southeastern.

“Don’t Just Fly, SOAR.” – Dumbo

Raquel Fernandez

Hi there, I am Raquel Fernandez and am currently an Academic Advisor at the Undergraduate Academic Advising Center here at NSU.

Over the years, I have worn several “hats”—prior to graduating from California State University in Northridge, I was a Paraprofessional at Miami-Dade College when the program was started as a pilot program. One of my most memorable experiences there was participating with all phases involved in training visually impaired students in word processing---what a rewarding experience that was!

Helping people in general has always been a passion for me and I naturally gravitated to areas such as substitute teaching K-12 and then became involved in the higher education environment, first as a Program Manager for the Huizenga School of Business then a Graduate Advisor, which leads me to my present position in Undergraduate Advising. I still get a thrill from helping students achieve their goals and find that I am where I am meant to be.

Krystal Garcia

Hi, my name is Krystal Garcia. I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I earned both a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Cross-Disciplinary studies degree from Nova Southeastern University. My favorite part of being an academic advisor is providing students with opportunities to clarify their career and life goals and assess their academic strengths and challenges.

“We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” – Walt Disney

Seila Guerra

Hi, my name is Seila Guerra. I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Resources from St. Thomas University. My experience in the education field is extensive. In the past, I was a classroom teacher in Miami and also taught ESOL in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. In addition, I worked at Miami Dade College as an Academic Advisor for four years.

One of the things I enjoy most is traveling. I have visited many countries and want to continue exploring the beautiful world we live in. Another favorite pastime is going to the beach, keeping up to date with fashion and attending community events.

I am very proud to be part of the NSU undergraduate academic advisement team and guide students in helping them to succeed!!! Go sharks!!

"Nothing is given to you. Everything is earned. You have to have that mindset that you have to work every single day. Learn every single day." – Saquon Barkley

Karl Haro

Hello! My name is Karl Haro and I would like to share some of my background with you!

Just so you know a little bit about me; I was originally born in South Florida, but I’ve lived most of my life in various countries. I’ve lived in Costa Rica, Jamaica, and St. Lucia before finally finding my way back to Florida. I am an alumni of NSU and completed my Bachelor of Science in Biology. I was also a former Tutor and Trainer for NSU’s Tutoring and Testing Center with a focus in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. I am student-driven, patient, and a great listener.

Some of my interests outside of the office include going to the theater, playing video games with my friends and family, and learning about new and innovative technologies. I believe that the people you meet in life and the experiences you gain are instrumental to the development of a person’s mindset and sense of being. It is with this that I look forward to meeting you and imparting some of the knowledge and wisdom I’ve gained from my various experiences to help you succeed in your academic goals.

Nicole La Roque

Hello, my name is Nicole La Roque, and I was born and raised in South Florida. I graduated from the University of Florida with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and then returned to South Florida to receive my Master of Social Work from Florida Atlantic University.

Advising allows me to pursue my passion of helping others by creating meaningful relationships with students and assisting them with gaining the most of their college experience.

“Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you.” – Walt Whitman

Melanie Lindsay

Hello! My name is Melanie Lindsay. I was born in New York and raised here in South Florida. My parents are from the beautiful island of Jamaica which I visit often. I am a proud alumna of NSU. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and my Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. Prior to becoming an academic advisor, I spent 17 years working in the behavioral health field in various settings-outpatient child and family therapy, residential group homes, school based programs, community based social work and utilization review.

Outside of the office, my interests include traveling, serving at my local church, international missions and spending time with my friends and family. Throughout my career, my passion has involved helping others pursue their goals and dreams while achieving academic and career success. I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to help students grow personally and professionally while achieving their goals while here at NSU. I look forward to providing support and assistance within the Undergraduate Academic Advising Center and welcome the journey that lies ahead.

Maryann Mallin

Hi, my name is Maryann Mallin and I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. I moved to South Florida after receiving my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Texas in San Antonio. After working in the social service field for over 8 years my passion was drawn to helping people continue their education and inspired me to obtain my Master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership from Florida Atlantic University. I love spending time with my husband and daughter and reading books or listening to a good podcast. I enjoy helping people reach their goals and cheering them on throughout their journey.

“When adversity strikes, that’s when you have to be the most calm. Take a step back, stay strong, stay grounded and press on.” – LL Cool J

Kevins Metayer

Hi, my name is Kevins Metayer and I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I earned both a Bachelors in Public Administration and a Master of Science in Higher Education degree over at Florida International University. My goal as an academic advisor is to assure that students have everything that they need to achieve here at NSU. Facts about me; I come from a Haitian Background, I am a sports fanatic, and I love listening to Hip-Hop.

Robert Miyares

Hello, my name is Robert Miyares. A South Florida native, I attended the University of Central Florida for my undergraduate degree in Literature. After working on various successful research projects with UCF faculty, I decided to continue my education and earned my Master of Arts in English, Literary, Cultural, and Textual Studies in 2010. After serving as a part-time writing tutor here at NSU, I began my full-time work in 2011.

I appreciate the opportunity to work with a wide variety of faculty, staff, and students in my current position. I feel like I have the chance to make a positive impact in many different areas. The diversity in tasks and assignments continually keep this position exciting and I hope to be able to support the students of Nova Southeastern University for years to come.

Kristal Morel

Hi there! My name is Kristal Morel. I was born and raised in the beautiful Dominican Republic. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology in 2011 from the Universidad Católica Santo Domingo. In 2012 I moved to South Florida without a plan and found so much!!

Helping people is my passion and what makes my heart jump!!

In 2015, NSU gave me the chance to begin my journey as a Master’s degree student. This journey ended in 2017 when I proudly earned my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Graduate school at NSU was the best experience for me! As an international student, I found so much support and many resources at NSU. Therefore, it is an absolute honor for me to now be part of the wonderful NSU staff. Here at NSU, you will find top quality education within an awesome campus and with the best people ever! Go Sharks!!!!!

Never, ever give up! Keep on trying, because today might be the day your daily persistence pays off!!!

Stefany Nacarato

Hi! My name is Stefany Nacarato. I was born and raised in Sunrise, FL and I not only work at NSU but I am a current student. I am working towards my Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies.

Currently I am the Administrative Assistant to the Associate Dean of the College of Undergraduate Studies and I absolutely love working at NSU.

I also have a wonderful husband and three amazing sons who inspire me to be the best person I can be.

Maria Oquendo

My name is Maria Oquendo I was born and raised in the Garden State of New Jersey, where I attended New Jersey City University. I moved to South Florida in 1993, and attended Broward College. I joined Nova Southeastern University in 2009. I currently work as an Administrative Assistant for the Office of Undergraduate Academic Advising Center. You can always find me smiling and making other people smile as well. Family is everything to me, and I’m so excited for the arrival of my first bundle of joy this summer. I also love to travel and soak in all the history, and architecture. You can also find me at the gym early every morning getting that workout in before work.

Carmen Sosa

My name is Carmen Sosa and I was born in Havana, Cuba. I moved to the US at the age of 6 and lived in New Jersey until 1993 when I relocated to the sunshine state. I was a first generation college student who found a mentor during my undergraduate studies and this connection inspired me to pursue a career in higher education. After completing my undergraduate degree in business administration, I focused my graduate work in psychology with a focus on counseling. I have been in higher education since 1983 and with NSU since 1994. I have worked in admissions, registrar, career placement and academic advising.

I find many quotations are meaningful in life at different stages. One of my favorites is from Andree Paul Guillaume Gide, a French author and winner of the Nobel Prize in literature in 1947. He stated, "Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore".

What I love most about academic advising happens every year when I attend commencement and see our graduating class. Congratulating the students who I have established relationships with and meeting their families who are there to celebrate. When the student shares that they are feeling a mixture of emotions (excitement, fear, uncertainty, etc.) advancing towards the next chapter in life, I continue to encourage them in their future endeavors.