Shelley Dempsey, Assistant Provost for Graduation and Retention
Dr. Shelley Dempsey oversees all services and programs hosted by the Graduation and Retention Network.
Our Mission
The Graduation and Retention Network's focus is to increase student retention and progression towards their degrees.
Our Staff
Amanda D. Therrell, GARNET Director
Amanda is responsible for leading academic programming and for forming and implementing new initiatives for GARNET.
LaNae' Budden, Director, First-Gen Center
Dr. Budden is responsible for leading the First-Generation Center and connecting first-generation students with resources to successfully navigate their progress towards graduation.
Melissa Kupfer, Assistant Director, First-Gen Center
Melissa supports the development of students’ academic and personal goals by providing opportunities for student engagement within the University community.
Meghan Lipinoga, Manager of Finance and Assessment
Meg manages GARNET's budget and is responsible for all data and assessment collection and reporting.
Helen Le, GARNET Assistant Director
Helen provides leadership for the Academic Services department and collaborates with our Student Services Coordinator to provide instructor and student support.
Kelly DeShazo, Student Services Coordinator
Kelly provides instructor and student support and advisement. She serves as a liaison between our Academic Services team and the University.
Savannah Brown, Special Projects Coordinator
Savannah manages new and unique projects including publishing, website design, and grant proposals.
Curtis Pernell, Graduate Student
Curtis is currently completing a practicum experience and assists GARNET with research and planning for our upcoming First-Gen Center.
Serenity Jenkins, Undergraduate Assistant
Serenity, Early Education '24, serves as a student administrative assistant in our front office.