Spring 2014 Graduate Hooding Statements

Master of Arts in Liberal Studies Ashley Victoria Favors: Being a graduate student and obtaining my graduate degree at Clayton State University has been a rewarding experience. I am pleased to have been introduced to such a wide range of literature from professors whose enthusiasm made learning that much more satisfying. The instructors as well as the discussions and interactions with the students is what made the graduate degree program at Clayton State University worthwhile.

Stephanie Sade Fearn: I’ve Come to Far from Where I Started from. It has been such a long, but fulfilling, journey for me in this MALS program at Clayton State University. I started this degree program exactly six days after giving birth—that’s right, after having a baby—so you could imagine many sleepless nights with baby and book in hand. Now a mother to a happy 2- year old, I look back and know that I put 100% of my heart into this program knowing that I had a purpose to fulfill and receive this degree. I have learned many life lessons here at CSU, and I hope that those same lessons will be instilled in my future career and in my possible higher learning endeavors.

Master of Arts in Teaching English Mai Joi Brown: I am proud to complete my graduate degree in order to exemplify perseverance, discipline and the importance of education for my three amazing daughters. My husband, family, and friends have supported my pursuit of education and this experience has been a journey all of us have taken together. I love and appreciate all of them for taking it with me.

Adrian Denise Dunmeyer: It is with great pride and honor that I dedicate my Master’s Degree to my mother Michelle Dunmeyer. For without her guidance and encouragement I would have never dared to persevere.

Zurisaray Espinosa

John William Hurst: Clayton State University’s Master of Arts in Teaching English has provided me with a vast toolbox of knowledge and skills to provide to my students in the classroom.

Audrey Chanel McLaughlin: Being a part of Clayton State University's MAT-English program has helped me achieve my goal of becoming a highly qualified educator in the State of Georgia. Although it has been physically and mentally challenging, I am certain that the MAT- English program has prepared me and my fellow classmates for the demanding yet rewarding profession of teaching where we can be part of the solution rather than part of the problem. For that, I will forever be in Clayton State University's debt.

Scott Robinson Kelleigh Tique Taylor: I believe that Clayton State University's M.A.T. English program has truly prepared me to become a competent, caring, committed, collaborative, and culturally responsive educator! I am grateful to have been a part of this prestigious program!

Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics Julie Bartlett

Tishida Cheryce Smith: Being a graduate student at Clayton State University means being dedicated to your education and being motivated to reach your career goals. I have met people that have help mold me into a humble and caring individual.

Jarvis Navon Turner: I have enjoyed the journey from theoretical teacher to experienced teacher. Practicing, teaching, and experiencing mathematics and educational philosophies within the classroom have broadened my perspective about mathematics and education. I thank God, my family and fiancé for their encouragement as I completed this journey. I hope to encourage others as they begin their journey to become a teacher and those students of whom I teach to become great mathematicians, math teachers, or even math enthusiast.

Master of Business Administration Michele Charlene Adams: Clayton State’s program has afforded me the opportunity to complete one of many life goals...obtain a MBA. The rigorous program has challenged and prepared me for global commerce challenges. I look forward to applying the various skills and knowledge to a progressive business enterprise. Many Thanks, Clayton State University!

Maher Saleh Balbaid: I am proud to be the first Saudi student who graduates from the MBA program with concentration in Supply Chain at Clayton State University. The knowledge that I gained from the MBA program has helped me to improve my skills in solving problems. I am really appreciate everyone who supported and helped me for making my dream come true. Thank you all.

Johnny Allen Brown: The MBA program challenged me to grow both academically and professionally. My degree provides a new skill set in leadership, strategy, creativity, and public speaking. I am forever grateful to the staff and my cohort.

Teesia Louise Brown: The CSU MBA program has not provided random education, but applicable tools that have furthered my success even before graduation. "Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time is this". -Esther 4:14 Elisha Mozelle Camp: Thank God I made it!! This MBA program was challenging, but rewarding. I have grown as an individual and as a professional. I thank the professors, my cohort, and my family. This program was an awesome experience and I am thankful for the opportunity.

Heather Renee Chaney: The CSU MBA experience was more than just the curriculum; it was about teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking. This program and the faculty equipped me with the skills and confidence I need to make my career dreams real.

Julie T. Coile: My MBA experience at Clayton State University has been challenging and demanding, but worth every ounce of effort that was required. I have made life-long friends, experienced new cultures, and had the privilege of learning under some of the best professors in their fields. I am truly grateful for this experience and for my family and friends that supported me during this time.

Cuu Nhuan Cam: I am proud to be a graduate student in the MBA program with concentration in Accounting at Clayton State University. It is a great honor and achievement. The program has given me the opportunity to advance my education, to develop an expertise in the core areas of accounting strategies, and to become a great leader. I would like to thank my professors for giving me a great knowledge and a passion for learning. Also, I would like to thank my brother, Dao Cuu, for supporting, believing, and giving me the strength and the courage to pursue my MBA. Thank you for all!!!

Adrienne D'Ascenzo DeCesare: The MBA program has been an amazing journey. The professors and friends made during the way helped make the experience even more rewarding and exciting. The journey will continue as I develop into my profession.

Jennifer Lynn Eason: My MBA is just the beginning to a future of possibilities. Thank you, Mom for helping to make this possible. She took care of my little 6 year old angel, Tzipporah when I had class or team meetings. My daughter, my mom, my brother, my family and my friends that became like family, I thank you all. Most importantly I give God the glory for all He has given me.

Ijeoma M. Eze-Adenka

Mariama Fanneh: The Clayton State University MBA program provided me with the opportunity to expand my professional knowledge as well as enhance my leadership skills. I would like to thank my professors for their hard work and dedication to the program, my family and friends for their continuous support and encouragement; I could not have done this without you. I will forever remain grateful.

Ali Hassan Fawaz: Clayton State University is a great learning institution with highly skilled faculty and friendly staff. I am grateful to Clayton State for providing me with the knowledge and competencies to face a dynamic and ever changing future, and for giving me the opportunity to make wonderful lifetime friends. Karl James Haggon: As an undergraduate and now MBA graduate of Clayton State, I have learned how to maneuver in the business world. The MBA program has enhanced my personal and professional development and given me a world of knowledge and opportunity to succeed.

Demetrius U. Hamm: I am very thankful to have been a part of the Clayton State University MBA program. Congratulations to my fellow graduates and friends! This has been a dream fulfilled. Juho Illi: Graduating from the M.B.A. program has been a challenging and rewarding experience. Not only have I furthered my education but also created some lifelong friendships during my studies here. I truly want to thank all of my professors and School of Graduate Studies staff!

Janice Cleopatra Jackman

Anni K. Kuechenmeister: Clayton State’s MBA in International Business has given me an opportunity to learn a more strategic way of thinking and an invaluable experience that will allow me to excel in this competitive global market.

Jeffrey Edward Lockhart: I have enjoyed attending Clayton State University MBA program. Clayton State University has provided me with a quality educational experience. The professors are very knowledgeable of their subject matter.

Sarah Mathis Castaneda: It has always been my dream to obtain my MBA. With the help of CSU and the love and support of my husband, and family, I am finally able see my dream become a reality.

Dalia Denice Matthias: I enrolled in Clayton State's MBA program to pursue my long-term goals to work in the financial industry and build upon the professional and academic experience I have. My education at Clayton State University has provided me with a real world curriculum and a brand new outlook on life, people, and business.

Barbara Roechell Moore: The quality and convenience of the M.B.A program were the factors I used when I researched graduate schools. Clayton State's M.B.A program has exceeded my expectations. The skills I have gained from this program have already been put to use at my organization.

Krista Janelle Nevins: Earning an MBA at Clayton State has been a very challenging and rewarding experience. This program has provided me with great leadership skills and has opened doors for new career opportunities.

Mu'az Mohammad Amin Nimer: My dreams came true by earning MBA degree from Clayton State University. I was able to build on my knowledge, and sharpen my skills to start a new stage in my life as a successful entrepreneur.

Jermaine Orlandus Oats: The Clayton State MBA sets a standard for my children to strive towards. I have three sons and would like to see each one achieve their goals in life and I think this will set the precedence for them. The MBA will set me apart from the competition and will give me the advantage that I need in order to reach my goals in life.

Thomas Franklin Quinn

Hector Javier Rivera: I would thank Jesus Christ for his wisdom, guidance, and provision. Also, I would thank my wonderful wife and children, excellent professors and marvelous classmates for their patience and support. During three years I have reduced my family time, cut hours of sleep, increased hours of reading and research, and converted the library into a sanctuary of studies in order to achieve a MBA in International Business, a MBA in Supply Chain, and to participate in a study abroad at Turkey. Now I have the business knowledge and necessary tools to help any organization to succeed.

Uneeda Marnae Smith-Sellers: Once a LAKER always a LAKER. Clayton State University is within my soul; therefore, when I was looking to obtain my M.B.A. there was no other school program that could compare to the College of Business. The skills that I have been provided by the OUTSTANDING professors will have me well prepared to become an outstanding effective leader. Plus, I have gained lifelong friendships.

Thounytha Thoth: Being a part of Clayton State University’s graduate program was a life changing experience for me and it has opened my world up to new possibilities. The knowledge I gained will be very useful in my future career, and I will always cherish the friendships I made while I was here. Thanks to everybody especially my family for being so supportive and now I can’t wait to see what’s next for me.

Ke'Shaundra Yvonne Way: Clayton State’s graduate program represents academic excellence and endless opportunities for me both personally and professionally. The experience signifies higher academic standards not only for me, but for my family as well. One of my true passion’s in life is learning, and I am ecstatic about earning a reputable degree from a university such as Clayton State.

Brittany Nicole Williams: Throughout my matriculation in this program it has been a journey to remember and I have gained a lot of knowledge that will help me in my future endeavors to becoming a successful business owner.

Barbara Ruth Wilson: The MBA program at CSU has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences in my life. Every professor has been an inspiration and I have made lifelong friends in my fellow students.

Master of Health Administration Shaylynn Marie Armstrong: The MHA program at Clayton State University has been one of the most significant positive experiences of my life. I am grateful to my fellow Classmates and Professors for making this an enriching learning environment. Ashley Keherra Felton: My degree program, MHA, has and will be a valuable asset as I proceed on my career path. The graduate experience at CSU will be unforgettable, yet useful as an effective, forthcoming, healthcare leader.

Erin Michelle Gray: Being a part of CSU’s College of Health graduate program has been eye- opening to say the least. The experience I’ve received throughout the program was priceless, and I am ecstatic to utilize it to further my career goals.

Diane Renee Headspeth: Being in a graduate degree program at Clayton State University has meant achieving a higher potential as a leader. The Professors are very good because they are well equipped with the knowledge and experience relating to the program of study.

Viviette Lee Z. Hudson: I, Viviette Hudson, am deemed elated to be able to accomplish such a faceted goal as being a twice alumni at a well merited and prestigious establishment as Clayton State University. I pursue a career in the medical field to be an OB Nurse Practitioner. My life fulfillment is to establish a holistic women’s center. The Master in Health Administration provides me the title MSHCA (with a completed BSRN, I will be MS RN) and learned capabilities to know the business management skills for health services. The graduate degree program focused on ethics, research in current health issues in the community, policies and most importantly my future in healthcare.

Cheryl Lindsey Mills: As a student in the graduate degree program at Clayton State University, I have found the academic experience to be one of the most rewarding learning experiences of my educational pursuits. Being a student in the graduate program has allowed me to broaden my perspectives and how to effectively work in team settings that dealt with real life projects.

Eric Moses Mtika: The healthcare management program has opened my eyes to seeing healthcare in a different way; I really appreciate the candor, care, and dedication that my professors have made in helping development my current world view.

Trista Trinette Tisdale

Dionjanae Walden: Being a graduate student of Clayton State Master of Health Administration Program has further educated me about the fundamentals of healthcare organizations. In addition, allowing and preparing me for more innovative and challenging career opportunities in the future.

Dacia Denee Willis: The MHA program at Clayton State has equipped me with the knowledge needed to advance in my career in healthcare. I am so pleased with my decision to attend CSU to continue my graduate studies.

Nancy Xiong: With my MHA degree I hope to serve as a liaison to bridge the gap between differences in culture; especially the Hmong community to serve the common goal of all healthcare providers, which is to provide above standard patient care. Master of Science in Nursing Laura Kristine Phillips: The MSN program has elevated my professional knowledge and has opened up new opportunities for me. The experience was challenging and rewarding and has steered me into the next phase of my nursing career!

Laura Renee Pinkney: The Master degree program has been a challenging and rewarding experience that has prepared me to impact new nursing professionals. I thank Jesus, family, friends, and the faculty and staff for their support.

Marjorie Sewannyana: I thank God, my husband, family, friends, faculty and classmates for the support during my course of study. I intend to use the experience obtained to make a difference in the nursing field.

Colleen Priscilla Walters: I received my BSN from Clayton State in the Spring of 2012 and now two years later I am elated to be receiving my MSN in nursing education. I highly value the education I have received at Clayton State as more than an increase in knowledge but a totally transformational experience that has had positive impact on my personal and professional life. This impact will undoubtably extend into the community with the lives I will have the opportunity to touch as a nurse and an educator. Here at Clayton State I was mentored, inspired, and empowered to be a lifelong learner, to serve, and to lead. I am truly grateful for educators such as Dr. Lisa Eichelberger, Dr. Khedija Gadhoum, Dr. Jennell Charles, Dr. Lynn Stover, Dr. Sue Odom, Dr. Grace Nteff, Ms Jennie Bergen, and Dr. Deonna Tanner for your investment of time, expertise, and friendship. I would also like to thank my husband, children, and parents for supporting my pursuit of higher education - you are the wind beneath my wings. Finally, I pray that God will bless the institution of Clayton State University in a special way and that the lives of students, faculty, and staff be touched by His grace. In the name of Jesus.

Kathy Powell Wilcox: Being taught and mentored by a cadre of nursing professionals exemplifying a commitment to life-long learning has ignited my passion to conform. The caliber of the MSN program has empowered me to strive toward excellence in my role as a nurse educator.