Meet the CPD Team
Our staff have cumulative decades of experience working with students, employers, and campus partners. We have synergy with our mix of experienced staff and newer professionals.
Matthew Cowley
Associate Vice Provost for Career and Professional Development
Dr. Matthew Paul Cowley began his career in higher education and career services at Auburn University, working as a graduate assistant in the Raymond J. Harbert College of Business’s Office of Professional and Career Development. Since then, Matthew has been privileged to serve in several positions in the University of Florida’s Career Connections Center and, most recently, in Old Dominion University’s Career Development Services unit. Matthew is driven by the opportunity to provide positive postsecondary outcomes for all students with a focus on producing equity and justice, developing strategic partnerships, and executing innovative initiatives.
Education
Ph.D. Curriculum and Instruction
Specializations: Social Foundations of Education and Critical Studies of Race, Ethnicity, & Culture in Education
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
M.Ed. Higher Education Administration
Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama
B.A. Public Administration
Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama
Amy McPherson
Senior Director, Operations and Strategic Initiatives
Amy serves as the Senior Director for Operations and Strategic Initiatives. She has been fortunate to work in Career and Professional Development for over 30 years – – and doesn’t know where the time has gone! Her professional roots are in career advising and working with students to explore their interests, goals, and opportunities for the future. In her current role, she works with operational aspects of the office including events & marketing, data & assessment, budgeting, and human resources functions. In her spare time, Amy enjoys travelling and exploring new places. Only 4 more states to go to hit all 50!
Educational background
M.Ed. Counselor Education
Concentration in College Student Development
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina
B.A. Business Management
B.A. Economics
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina
Professional affiliations and certifications
- Eastern Association of Colleges and Employers (EACE)
- Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
- College Student Educators International – ACPA
Specialties and Interests
SpecialtiesTatiana Balasenowich
Program Coordinator, Professional Development and Experiential Learning Programs
Tatiana joined Career and Professional Development in November 2024. She received a B.S. in Business Administration with concentrations in Marketing and Management Information Systems from SUNY Binghamton in 2023. Tatiana is passionate about supporting students in their personal and professional growth as they navigate challenges that she once faced herself. She continues to support students as a mentor at her alma mater, helping them explore opportunities and their passions.
As the Program Coordinator for Professional Development and Experiential Learning Programs, Tatiana focuses on creating impactful learning experiences for students, including work-based learning opportunities, professional competency development, and reflective practices to support their growth.
Originally from New York, she is new to the Blacksburg area and is excited to explore her new community and travel. Outside of work, Tatiana enjoys crafting, attending concerts, exploring small towns, visiting museums, and all things related to weddings and wedding planning. She has a strong interest in entrepreneurship and dreams of opening her own wedding planning business one day.
Education:
B.S. Business Administration
Concentrations: Marketing and Management Information Systems
Binghamton University, Vestal, NY
Kayla Branson
Assistant Director, Professional Development and Experiential Programs
Kayla has worked with Virginia Tech’s office of Career and Professional Development since July 2019 and serves as an Assistant Director for Professional Development and Experiential Programs. Through this role, Kayla serves as the Instructor for the Cooperative Education and Internship Program (CEIP), which is an off-campus, work-based experiential learning program for undergraduate students to gain practical, career-related experience while reflecting on their development of the 7 professional competencies for career readiness. Additionally, Kayla is the Program Manager for Career Outfitters, a professional development program that provides students equitable access to free, donated, professional attire and accessories that focuses on increasing students’ confidence in participating in professional activities. She also serves as the Liaison to First-Generation Student Success.
Kayla is a proud first-generation graduate and Virginia Tech alumna, class of 2017. Kayla previously worked as a Peer Career Advisor (PCA) for Career and Professional Development from 2014 to 2017, where she was able to both advise students and coordinate the Career Outfitters program. She has a passion for working with both students and employers. Additionally, enjoys helping students discover their own career ambitions, while supporting them through their professional growth and work-based learning experiences. Kayla continues to volunteer her time as an advisor for Virginia Tech’s chapter of Chi Omega and as Vice President of Blacksburg Young Professionals. When she is out of the office, Kayla enjoys spending time fashion styling and event planning, spending time with family and friends, listening to live music, visiting her favorite places in Blacksburg, reading, traveling, watching movies and tv series, and supporting the HOKIES!
Educational Background
Masters of Arts in Education – Higher Education Administration
Louisiana State University
Bachelor of Science in Apparel, Housing, and Resource Management
Major: Fashion Merchandising and Design
Areas of Focus: Event Planning and Food & Beverage, Marketing and Business Management
Virginia Tech
Professional Affiliations
Blacksburg Young Professionals (BYP) – Vice President
Cooperative Education and Internship Association (CEIA)
Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE)
Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
Grace Wagnon
Assistant Director, Career Pathways and College Relations
Hello! I’m Grace and I am excited to be a part of Career and Professional Development! Specifically, I work with students who are interested in pursuing careers relating to Public Administration, Education, and Human Services. I know everyone’s career journey’s are not linear and our unique talents and experiences can lead to a fantastic career. My undergraduate degree is in Public Health Sciences from Clemson University where I also have a graduate certificate in Youth Development Leadership. I am working to complete my masters in Public Administration and a graduate certificate in Organizational Communications Management here at Virginia Tech.
Leigh Anne Byrd
Assistant Director, Career Pathways and College Relations
Leigh Anne (she/her) has been with Career and Professional Development since June 2023. She is the lead for students interested in career pathways in Arts, Design, & Communication and Advertising & Marketing. At Virginia Tech, Leigh Anne has worked as an Academic Advisor in the Pamplin College of Business and the Department of Computer Science. She also worked as a Graduate Student Coordinator for the Via Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Prior to working at Virginia Tech, Leigh Anne worked as a Board Certified Music Therapist in the Montgomery County Public Schools. Leigh Anne is also a Certified Gallup Strengths Coach. She has always enjoyed working with students and looks forward to helping them navigate their career journey and leveraging their strengths.
Leigh Anne was born and raised in Blacksburg, VA and is a lifelong Hokie! In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, reading and participating in Musical Theatre!
Education
Masters of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction- Special Education
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Bachelor of Music- Music Therapy
East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
Claire Childress
Director, Career Pathways and College Relations
A Blacksburg native, Claire has worked for Virginia Tech Career and Professional Development for over 25 years. She leads a team of nine advisors who serve Career Pathways and Virginia Tech colleges, and an Administrative Assistant who serves Health Professions Advising. Our Career Pathways advisors and Claire assist students with career decision-making, gaining career-related experience, developing career readiness, and establishing their plans for after graduation.
A Certified Appreciative Advisor and 2012 graduate of the Appreciative Advising Institute, Claire is a passionate advocate for and practitioner of appreciative advising. A former President of the Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers, Claire served as Director of Professional Development for the Southern Association of Colleges and Employers from 2015-2017. Prior to her career in higher education, she worked in healthcare marketing/public relations and banking. Claire brings a global perspective to her work where she has traveled to over 10 countries and spent her junior year as an undergraduate studying abroad at the University of Reading in Reading, England. Claire loves being a wife and mother, cooking, reading, writing, traveling, and helping Hokies reach their dreams.
Educational background
M.B.A.
Pamplin College of Business, Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, Virginia
B.A. cum laude, Economics
Randolph-Macon Woman’s College
Lynchburg, Virginia
Professional Affiliations
Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE), Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE), Eastern Association of Colleges and Employers (EACE), National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
Prior roles in SoACE: Professional Development Task Force, 2019–2020, creating a new leadership and mentoring program for members; Nominating Committee, Fall 2017 and Fall 2009; Director, Professional Development, SoACE Board of Directors, 2015–2017; Local Arrangements Co-Chair, SoACE Conference Committee, Jan 2013-Dec 2014; Professional Development Liaison, Experiential Education Knowledge Group, 2012–2013; SoACE 2013-2014 Task Force for state/regional collaboration, 2013-2014.
Prior roles in VACE: President-Elect, President, Immediate Past President, 2008-2011; Co-Chair, Entertainment/Hospitality, VACE 2012, 2013, 2017 Annual Conferences; College Director, VACE Board of Directors, 2006–2008; Co-Chair, VACE 2007 and 2008 Annual Conferences; Program Co-Chair, VACE 2006 Annual Conference; Newcomers Co-Chair, VACE 2005 Annual Conference; Newsletter Editor, 2002–2005; Program Co-Chair, VACE 2004 Annual Conference; Entertainment Co-Chair, VACE 2003 Annual Conference; Program Team and Registration Team, VACE 2002 Annual Conference; Publicity Chair, Program Team, VACE 2001 Annual Conference; 2008 Patricia J. Carretta Special Achievement Award, 2003 VACE Emerging Leader Award.
Claire would love to meet you to talk about your career plans.
Catherine Copeland
Director, Career Technology and Assessment
Catherine has been with Career and Professional Development since 1989 with various roles and responsibilities, starting as liaison in the Pamplin College of Business, and currently as lead for data and assessment. This includes collection and reporting of First Destination data, meaning what new graduates do as a first career step after the undergraduate degree, whether continuing education such as graduate or professional school, employment, military service, or volunteering, and how they prepared and regrets.
Catherine believes in a career coaching approach, helping empower students to explore and pursue your unique and individual career interests and goals. Catherine has served as an advisor throughout her career; currently primarily to support the Health Professions Advising portion of CPD, through small group interview preparation and the Health Professions Advising Committee (HPEC).
Outside of work, Catherine loads her car with gear to hike, bike (in warm weather!), and paddle on lakes, and likes to read and travel near and far.
Education
M.Ed. Student Personnel Services
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
B.A. Political Science
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
Certifications
- International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP)
Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) - Adult Mental Health First Aid USA certification through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
Professional organizations and leadership
- Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE)
- Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
Service in eight different roles on the board of directors, including as president, over a 16-year period.
Sue Ellen Crocker
Office Manager
Sue Ellen has been with Career and Professional Development since the office was formed in 1993 with the merger of two fomer offices, University Placement Services, and Cooperative Education. Sue Ellen was with the Cooperative Education office prior to the merger. Sue Ellen served as president of the Virginia Tech Staff Senate for the 2004-2006 term.
Professional affiliations
President to New River Valley IAAP from 2007-2008
Anna Devlin
Assistant Director, Career Pathways and College Relations
Anna Devlin is a 2023 graduate of Virginia Tech, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology with a minor in Sociology. After graduation, Anna worked as an IT Recruiter, specializing in Software Development, where she gained valuable experience in matching talent with technology-focused roles and gained an understanding of the IT job market.
She has recently transitioned into her current role as Assistant Director for Career Pathways and College Relations at Virginia Tech, where she serves as the Pathway Lead for Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology. In this role, Anna bridges the gap between education and industry, ensuring that students have the skills, experiences, and connections necessary to excel in the ever-growing fields of Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, and IT.
In her personal life, Anna enjoys caring for her indoor plants and crocheting.
Meredith Gerber
Director, Career Exploration and Access
Originally from Virginia, Meredith returned to her home state to join the Career and Professional Development team in 2019. Currently she leads a team of five advisors who serve students in their first two years at Virginia Tech, any student exploring career options, graduate students, and underserved and underrepresented students to increase access to career development and meaningful work opportunities. Additionally, the Career Exploration and Access team provides career education training, tools, and resources for our broader campus community to support and empower faculty and staff to confidently share in the Career Everywhere mission.
Prior to her role at Virginia Tech, she worked in career development and/or academic advising at Washington and Lee University, Bloomsburg University, and College of Charleston. She has enjoyed assisting students in identifying, exploring, and planning to reach their academic and career goals for the last 20 years. She continues to be energized by working with students individually, excitedly learning each of their stories, and by working with campus partners to create quality career development programs for students.
Key responsibilities
- Liaison to Academic Advising Initiatives, University Studies, and Transfer Student Initiatives
- Liaison to First Year Experience Council
Education
M.S. Counselor Education
Specialization: Student Affairs Administration
Radford University, Radford, Virginia
B.A. Psychology
University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
Professional affiliations and certifications
- National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
- National Career Development Association (NCDA)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE)
- Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
- Strong Interest Inventory Certification
- Dependable Strengths Certified Facilitator
Heidi Gilbert
Career Education Specialist | Career Advisor
Heidi joined Career and Professional Development in June 2015. Over the years, Heidi has taken on various roles and now specializes in working with students who are exploring careers and career pathways of interest. She enjoys learning about new careers and helping students explore and plan a path to achieve their career goals.
In her current role, Heidi serves as a career education specialist. She develops training and resources to expand access to career information and resources across Virginia Tech campuses, fostering a Career Everywhere culture. Heidi coordinates the Career Champions program, a professional development initiative for Virginia Tech faculty and staff at any Virginia Tech campus. She also designs and manages the CPD Career Readiness Toolkit, a collection of resources and activities that faculty and staff can use to integrate career information into their work with students.
Key responsibilities
- Career Champions Program for Virginia Tech faculty and staff
- Content Developer and Coordinator for CPD Career Readiness Toolkit
Educational background
M.S. College Student Personnel Administration
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO
B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology
Winona State University
Winona, MN
Kassee Gutiérrez-Sosa
Career Advisor, Career Exploration and Access
As of June 2024, Kassee serves as a Career Advisor for Career and Professional Development, after having served for two years, August 2022 through May 2024, as our graduate assistant while she pursued and completed her M.A.Ed in Higher Education and Student Affairs at Virginia Tech. While completing her graduate studies, Kassee gained experience working with and supporting first-generation college students, creating career development materials for Liberal Arts students, advising students from a variety of colleges on career development topics, and working with experiential learning programs. Kassee is also an alumna of James Madison University where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. At JMU she also completed two minors, one in Sociology, and the other in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Kassee enjoys learning about each student’s individual career development and academic journey to understand how to best support them, especially underrepresented and underserved students. Kassee is particularly interested in learning more about supporting students with disabilities in their career and professional development journey. In her free time, Kassee enjoys reading, crocheting, working on puzzles, cooking, and hanging out with her cat, Taquito.
Education
Master of Arts in Education, Higher Education and Student Affairs
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Jen Heinold
Assistant Director, Health Professions Advising
Jen joined the Health Professions Advising (HPA) Team in June 2024. In addition to meeting with students, Jen is responsible for the Mock Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) sessions and the fall Healthcare Admissions Advantage event.
Prior to joining the HPA Team, Jen worked in Career and Professional Development for nearly five years, focusing on students majoring in the sciences as well as completing additional training on students with disabilities and the federal job search process. She has worked with college students for many years as an admissions counselor and then an academic advisor, both at Virginia Tech and the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.
Education Background
Master of Education
Educational Organization and Leadership
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Bachelor of Arts
Major: Economics, Minor: History
Eastern Illinois University, Charleston IL
Professional Affiliations
National Association for the Advisors of Health Professions (NAAHP)
Southeastern Association for the Advisors of Health Professions (SAAHP)
Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
Alyssa Henderson
Assistant Director, Career Pathways and College Relations
Alyssa joined the Career and Professional Development team in August 2021. As a former undeclared student, she enjoys guiding students through the career exploration process, from self-reflection to discovering future possibilities. Alyssa utilizes her past experience in recruitment and a variety of industries, including digital marketing, financial services, and hospitality, to inform her career coaching. She thrives in finding connections between seemingly unrelated areas and empowering students to recognize their full potential while pursuing their personal definition of success.
In addition to advising, Alyssa is the Program Manager for the Peer Career Advisor (PCA) Program. She enjoys training and mentoring our talented PCAs who represent an assortment of academic programs across Virginia Tech! Outside of work, Alyssa enjoys singing and musical theater, playing video games, visiting theme parks, traveling, and trying new ice cream flavors.
Career Pathways Specialties
- Business Management, Administration, and Finance
- Hospitality, Tourism, and Events
Education
Master of Education, Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs
Graduate Certificate in Career and Academic Advising
Kent State University, Kent, OH
Bachelor of Science, Economics
Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Jim Henderson
Director, Employer Engagement and Recruitment Services
In June 2009, Jim joined the Employer Relations team within Career and Professional Development after 17 years working with the Capital Group/American Funds. His previous experience includes various leadership roles within Operations, Customer Service, and Human Resources departments. His primary role in HR was as a corporate recruiter specializing in college recruiting.
Employers, please contact Jim to discuss how your company can better position itself as an employer of choice to the Virginia Tech community. There are many branding opportunities available and a clear recruiting strategy is vital in today’s environment. See employer services for more information.
Educational background:
M.A. Education and Human Resource Development
George Washington University
M.S. Business Administration
Radford University
Radford, Virginia
Professional certifications:
Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
Certified Diversity Recruiter (CDR)
Professional affiliations:
- Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- Roanoke Valley Chapter (RVSHRM)
- New River Valley Chapter (NRV SHRM)
- Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
- Eastern Association of Colleges and Employers (EACE)
- National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
Patricia Hughes
Administrative Operations, Health Professions Advising
Patricia began her career at Virginia Tech in 2013. After spending time in the Center for International Research, Education, and Development as a Financial and Program Assistant she transitioned to an Administrative Assistant position to the Executive Director. At the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine’s Academic Affairs office she was an Office Assistant. Patricia joined the Health Professions Advising team within Career and Professional Development as the Administrative Operations Coordinator.
Prior to coming to Virginia Tech, she spent 35 years in commercial printing as a customer service representative, sales representative, bookkeeper and an estimator.
She holds a B. S. Degree in Education with a minor in Home Economics from Radford University.
Annie Laib Jenkins
Associate Director
Annie joined the Health Professions Advising (HPA) team within Career and Professional Development in September, 2019. In her role, she oversees a team focused on supporting students and alumni interested in careers in healthcare and health sciences, supports individuals with applications to professional school in health sciences, co-instructs the Careers in Medicine course, and coordinates programmatic offerings offered by Health Professions Advising.
Prior to her role in Career and Professional Development, Annie worked with the School of Neuroscience at Virginia Tech and formerly with the Department of Bioengineering at the University of Maryland. In those roles, she enjoyed serving many pre-health students through both their academic and pre-professional journeys. Annie is passionate about working with pre-health students and enjoys assisting students with health profession exploration, preparation, and application processes.
Educational Background
- Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction (focus on Instructional Design and Technology)
- Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
- M.A. in Higher Education, Student Affairs, and International Education Policy
- University of Maryland, College Park, MD
- B.S. Animal and Poultry Sciences
- Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
- B.S. Psychology
- Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Professional organizations, training, and certifications
- National Association of Advisors for the Health Professions (NAAHP)
- Zoned In Badge: 15 weeks of Safe Zone training including Safe Zone 101; Trans Safe Zone 101; and Asexual and Intersex Identities and Experiences
- Adult Mental Health First Aid USA certification through the National Council for Behavioral Health
Krystal Johnson
Assistant Director, Career Exploration and Access
Krystal Johnson joined Career and Professional Development in June 2023. Originally from Virginia, Krystal has been afforded career opportunities in Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Krystal has enjoyed her various counseling, career advising, and academic advising roles. Before joining CPD, Krystal was an academic advisor at North Carolina Central University, UNC-Chapel Hill, and NC State University. Krystal is thrilled to be back in her home state and working with students at Virginia Tech!
Key Responsibility
- Liaison to the Beyond Boundaries Collaborative District
Education
Master of Arts
Program of Study: Community Counseling
University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science
Major: Psychology
Minors: Family Studies, Women’s Studies
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Melinda Malloy
Career Advisor, Career Exploration and Access
Melinda is new to the Career and Professional Development team as of June 2024. Before that, she was teaching special education at the middle and high school levels for ten years. She believes in building relationships with students to help them achieve their goals and meet their maximum potentials. She is an avid hiker, reader, and is a New Englander at heart (but loves the New River Valley!).
Education
M.S., Special Education
BayPath University, Longmeadow, MA
B.S., Psychology
University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT
Susan Meacham
Career Advisor
Dr. Meacham joined the Career and Professional Development team in January 2024. She grew up in Blacksburg and earned degrees, an undergraduate and later a doctorate, in Human Nutrition and Foods (and Exercise) from Virginia Tech.
Throughout her career as a department chair, faculty member, and equitation team coach she enjoyed supporting students in varied capacities. In addition to teaching and research she dedicated time to program development, course advising, precepting experiential learning activities and serving on professional program interview and admissions committees. The derived the most enjoyment from advising students as the prepared for admission applications and interviews for credentialed health professions programs – primarily dietetics, nursing, medicine, and dentistry.
As a life-long learner, she thrives on advancing her skills to assist students as they explore options and find their pathway forward to improve the health of others, humans and animals, locally and globally.
Education
Ph.D. Human Nutrition and Foods
Nutrient supplementation and bone health in college female athletes (dissertation)
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
M.S. Foods and Nutrition
Energy nutrient metabolism in skeletal muscle of genetically lean and obese animal models (thesis)
University of Georgia
Athens, GA
B.S.
Human Nutrition and Foods
Science of Food (option)
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
Jenean Meadows
Enrollment Coordinator for Experiential Learning Programs
Jenean currently serves as the Experiential Programs Enrollment Coordinator in the office of Career and Professional Development at Virginia Tech. Jenean has 26 years of service with the university. Her current role with the Cooperative Education and Internship Program allows her to assist students with transitions to and from a workplace environment during college.
Jenean’s CliftonStrenths include Communication, Responsibility, Adaptability, Belief, and Woo. She gets a lot of energy from people and loves to make new connections.
Professional Affiliations
Cooperative Education and Internship Association (CEIA)
Tracy Newton
Administrative Associate
Tracy has been a part of the Virginia Tech community for over twenty years and transitioned to join the Career and Professional Development team in 2021. She is a United States Army Veteran, having served in Germany and a founding and active member of the Virginia Tech Veterans Caucus.
In her current position she is responsible for variable financial, grant and scholarship components. Her professional and educational background in law and legal contracts is paramount in the application of procedures, policy interpretation, and contractual responsibility within the Career and Professional Development office.
Professional Affiliations
- Associate Member of the American Bar Association (ABA)
- Commissioned Notary Public in the Commonwealth of Virginia
- Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- New River Valley Chapter (NRV SHRM)
Edward Raimundi
Assistant Director, Career Pathways and College Relations
Edward is the Pathways Lead for both the Agriculture and Food Pathway and the Natural Resources, Sustainability, and Energy Pathway at Virginia Tech. Joining the Office of Career and Professional Development in 2024 as an Assistant Director of Career Development and College Relations, Edward collaborates closely with other career advisors to support a diverse range of career pathways in business, government, and non-profit sectors. Originally from New York, he earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees from the University of Louisiana Monroe. Edward has gained valuable experience across multiple states, including Louisiana, Texas, and Pennsylvania, with roles at the University of Louisiana Monroe, Texas Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Texas at Arlington, and Duquesne University. He is dedicated to advancing the career and professional development of students at Virginia Tech.
Education
Master of Arts
University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe LA
Bachelor of Science
University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe LA
Barb Reibsamen
Program Coordinator, Professional Development and Experiential Programs
Barb Reibsamen joined Career and Professional Development in December 2024, and is very excited to be back in her home state of Virginia after spending 15 years in the Pacific Northwest. She brings over 25 years of experience in youth mentoring programs, coaching athletics, account management, and customer service. Barb loves watching all sports, camping in her teardrop camper, spending time outdoors hiking, and working in her vegetable garden.
Ashley L. Roberts
Assistant Director, Events and Marketing
Ashley has been with Career and Professional Development since May 2015. In her role, she oversees the event and marketing team, coordinates CPD career fairs, serves as a liaison to fair coordinators across campus, and manages social media channels.
Before joining our team, she worked as a project manager with Continuing and Professional Education for four years. During that time, Ashley managed events ranging from 10 to 1,500 people, taking place all over the Commonwealth, as well as nationally and internationally. Prior to her arrival at Virginia Tech, Ashley served as a program coordinator at Radford University for five years in the Governmental and Nonprofit Assistance Center.
In her free time, Ashley enjoys music, all things pop culture, and spending time with her family and beloved dog, Spencer.
Certifications
Certified Digital Marketing Professional
Professional Certified Marketer
Becca Scott
Director, Professional Development and Experiential Programs
Becca is a lifelong Hokie and third generation Hokie alumnae! She currently serves as Director for Professional Development and Experiential Initiatives for Career and Professional Development. In her role she leads a team of professionals who manage and support career readiness and work-based learning programs and events for the career center. In addition to her role as a team and program leader, she serves on the department’s leadership team, consults with employers on recruiting efforts for co-op and intern experiences, and works with faculty to design and create work-based learning experiences for students.
Becca has worked at Virginia Tech in career services for over 26 years and throughout her time in the career center she has coached 1000s of students along their career journey and also held several college and career liaison roles, developed and managed the Peer Career Advisor Program, led the professional competency career readiness initiative, managed a career closet, taught career exploration courses, and developed career and experiential learning curriculum. She is also a Gallup Certified CliftonStrengths Coach and a Past-President of the Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE). Becca lives in Blacksburg with her husband and enjoys live music, long walks listening to podcasts and books, and hanging out with her friends and family in her favorite Blacksburg places.
Education:
M.A.Ed. in Student Personnel Services/College Student Affairs
B.S. in Family and Child Development
Virginia Tech
Professional Affiliations:
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
Cooperative Education and Internship Association (CEIA)
Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE)
Eastern Association of Colleges and Employers (EACE)
Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
Kelly Shannon
Marketing Manager
Kelly’s journey at Virginia Tech began in 2000, where she held various administrative roles. While these positions provided valuable experience, Kelly wanted a creative outlet. This desire led her to pursue a B.A. in communication from Virginia Tech, graduating in 2007. Following graduation, she joined the Office for Diversity and Inclusion, further honing her skills. In 2013, Kelly found her creative home at Career and Professional Development as marketing manager.
Now, Kelly manages the creative direction at Career and Professional Development, where she crafts compelling visuals and narratives that inspire students, staff, faculty, and campus partners. As marketing manager, she orchestrates impactful campaigns, guides staff on effective marketing strategies, and mentors the marketing and graphic design student interns.
Kelly is a champion of brand consistency, ensuring every touchpoint reflects the department’s vibrant personality. Through storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she produces engaging content that resonates with students and empowers them to achieve their career goals.
Kelly has a boxer named Jasmine who weighs 54 pounds. Jasmine demands lap time each evening . . . did I mention that she weighs 54 pounds? 😃
Certifications:
Digital Marketing Institute: Certified Digital Marketing Professional
American Marketing Association: Professional Certified Marketer in Digital Marketing
New River Community College: Career Studies Certificate – Visual Communication Design
Suzanne Shelburne
Associate Director, Career Exploration and Access-Graduate Student Engagement
Dr. Suzanne Shelburne is from the New River Valley and was a high school social studies teacher for many years. She graduated from Virginia Tech in May 2022 with a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. Suzanne supervised preservice teachers in their field placements while pursuing her degree. After graduation, she worked in the Student Success Center and taught UNIV 1004: College Success Strategies. Suzanne joined Career and Professional Development in May 2023.
Key Responsibilities
- Liaison to the Graduate School
- Liaison to Cranwell International Center
Education
Ph.D. Curriculum and Instruction
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
M.A. English
Radford University, Radford, Virginia
M.A. History
Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
B.A. Social Science
Emory and Henry College, Emory, Virginia
Cody Smith
Assistant Director, Employer Engagement and Recruitment Services
Cody joined the Employer Engagement and Recruitment Services team in Career and Professional Development in September of 2024. Prior to joining the team, Cody served in various roles across the university including as a Hiring and Onboarding Specialist for Dining Services, where he primarily focused on hiring and onboarding student employees, and as a Program Coordinator on the Professional Development and Experiential Programs team within Career and Professional Development, where he focused on facilitating quality experiential learning programs for students and employers.
Employers, please contact Cody to discuss how your company can better position itself as an employer of choice to the Virginia Tech community. There are many branding opportunities available and a clear recruiting strategy is vital in today’s environment.
Educational Background:
Masters in Human Resource Development (MHRD)
University of Arkansas
B.S. in Sociology and B.S. in Criminology
Virginia Tech
Professional Affiliations:
- Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM)
- New River Valley Chapter
- Association for Talent Development (ATD)
- Cooperative Education and Internship Association (CEIA)
- National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
- Eastern Association of Colleges and Employers (EACE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE)
- Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE)
- Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
- Arkansas Association for Colleges and Employers (AACE)
Cindy Wagner
Administrative Assistant
Cindy has been with Career and Professional Development since November 2024. She assists in processing travel and other administrative tasks. She has also enjoyed working on the Virginia Tech campus in other departments.
Julia Ward
Julia has worked with Career and Professional Development since July 2021 and serves as an Assistant Director for Professional Development and Experiential Programs. Julia manages Virginia Tech’s on-campus internship program for undergraduate students. This experiential learning program, Campus internEXP, provides students with paid opportunities to build upon CPD’s 7 Professional Competencies for career readiness. In addition, the program increases equity and access to opportunities for students to apply what they are learning in the classroom to a career related experience on campus.
Educational Background
Masters of Education in Counselor Education
Concentration in College Student Development and Counseling
Virginia Commonwealth University
Bachelor of Science, Human Development
Minor in Psychology
Virginia Tech
Professional Affiliations
Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers
National Student Employment Association
Cooperative Education and Internship Association
Southern Association of Colleges and Employers
Donna Weikel
Manager, Employer Engagement and Recruitment Services
Donna joined Career and Professional Development in 2008. In her role as Employer Engagement & Recruitment Services Manager, Donna coordinates on campus interviews, information sessions, campus visits and manages use of interview space in our building. Please contact Donna if you would like plan a visit to campus or discuss other opportunities to engage with students.
Educational Background
AAS in Business Administration
New River Community College
Professional Affiliations
- Virginia Association of Colleges & Employers (VACE)
- National Association of Colleges & Employers (NACE)
Crystal Wiltsee
Operations Manager
Crystal joined Career & Professional Development in 2017 and has expanded her role to Operations Manager. Her professional roots are in Social Work and Counseling which make a great fit for supervising 6-8 students each semester on the frontline, organizing training and networking events for all 36 CPD student employees, and working closely with our diverse staff.
Bachelor of Social Work
Radford University
Radford, VA
Associate of Arts, General Studies
New River Community College
Dublin, VA
Associate of Arts, Travel and Tourism
National Business College
Roanoke, VA
Anya Work
Assistant Director, Career Pathways and College Relations
Anya serves as the Pathways Lead for both the Architecture & Construction Pathway and Technology, Engineering, and Manufacturing Pathway. Originally from New Orleans, Anya obtained her bachelor’s degrees in English and Art History from Hollins University. While working in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Academic Programs Office at Virginia Tech, Anya obtained her master’s degree in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs and is currently working on her doctorate in Higher Education. For nine years prior to joining CPD, Anya has supported students as a tutor coordinator, instructor, academic advisor, and academic coach at Virginia Tech and Western Carolina University. She enjoys getting to know the students she works with, learning about their experiences and what motivates them as they navigate all things career and professional development. In her free time, Anya enjoys hiking, roller skating, and traveling.
Education
M.A.Ed., Higher Education and Student Affairs
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
B.A. English
B.A. Art History
Hollins University, Roanoke, Virginia