Career Center Team

Eileen Buecher assumed the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Career Success at UNT after 30 years of successive leadership roles at California Polytechnic State University, Emory, UNC Asheville, Carnegie Mellon, and the University of Pittsburgh.  She also has experience building career readiness and employer engagement programs at Berry College, Robert Morris University, and Chatham University.  She started as a student worker in a career services office, has experience in social work and nonprofits, and has demonstrated impact in the areas of external relations, employer development, career counseling and teaching, strategic planning and assessment, team building, business operations, consulting, and fundraising.  Eileen is committed to preparing all students to be career ready and achieve their goals in developmental, collaborative, and measurable ways.

Philip Aguinaga is the Assistant Director for Events and Employer Services. Philip earned an M.Ed. in Counseling and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of North Texas. Previously at UNT, he worked as an academic counselor and has spent years helping students develop their careers. Now at the Career Center, he enjoys helping UNT students find meaningful connections to potential employers by coordinating various events and fairs on campus. When he is not at UNT, Philip is spending time with family, watching sports, and listening to podcasts. He has been described as knowledgeable, understanding, and dedicated.

If you want to learn more about UNT’s career events, please email Philip at Philip.Aguinaga@unt.edu.

Lola Aje is a career coach supporting the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, where she is passionate about helping students discover their strengths and navigate their career paths with confidence. Lola earned her bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Benin. She is a Chartered Accountant (ACA) from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. She holds a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration and a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Texas. Additionally, she obtained the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential through the International Coaching Federation, bringing a well-rounded and holistic approach to coaching.

Driven by a deep love for supporting young people, Lola thrives on helping students uncover their purpose, passion, and path in life. What she loves most about working at UNT is the diversity and uniqueness of each student—every individual has their own story, and Lola is committed to helping them discover what works best for their personal and professional success.

Outside of her work at UNT, Lola enjoys spending quality time with family, close friends, and her church community, where she sings on the worship team. She finds joy in these connections, which keep her grounded and inspired.

Lola is often described as passionate, organized, and deeply caring, always willing to go the extra mile to support those she works with. The best advice that has guided her through life is: “Focus on your strengths, but know your limits.”

Dolores August is a Career Coach supporting the College of Music. She earned a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Historical Performance from Boston University, is a proud alum of UNT earning a Master of Music (MM) in Flute Performance, and earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Music Education and a Bachelor of Music (BM) in Performance from Florida International University. She has a background in solo, chamber, and orchestral performance, arts administration, as both a private and public school teacher, adjunct professor, church music director, music entrepreneur, and has performed musicological research related to performance practice. She enjoys meeting with UNT music students because they are hard workers academically and are dedicated to their music. She enjoys seeing the wide variety of paths students are taking, enjoys exploring additional career options with them, and is passionate about helping students realize their full potential. The best piece of advice she has been given is “Never compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on your own personal growth and success.” She has been described as caring, organized and motivated. When she is not at UNT, she likes to spend time going to movies, seeking out water, or performing with her organist husband and spending time with her two children.

Ready to see how Dolores can help you? Her office is located at Music 204 and may be reached by phone at 940-369-7583. Ready for a coaching session? Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

David Bekker is a Career Coach and supports students at the College of Engineering (CENG) at UNT Discovery Park. 

David earned an M.Ed. in Counseling from The University of North Texas (UNT) and a B.A in Radio Television, and Film from UNT. He has an extensive history of helping UNT students reach their academic and career goals. He has been an Academic Counselor for The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Senior Academic Counselor for UNT Athletics Student Services, and an Academic Counselor for The College of Engineering. David is dedicated in helping UNT students identify their academic and career goals and providing extensive options and pathways to meet these goals. David has been described as a creative, motivational, and caring.

Current undergraduate and graduate students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Marcy Bishop-Lilley is a Career Coach and supports students in Communication Design, Pre-Communication Design, Interior Design, Pre-Interior Design, Drawing/Painting, New Media, Photography, and Pre-Studio Art for these concentrations in the College of Visual Arts and Design. Marcy earned an M.F.A. in Painting and Drawing from the University of North Texas and a B.A. in Art Education from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. She likes helping UNT students by facilitating an environment in which students can find and acknowledge their strengths to pursue their dreams. When she is not at UNT, she is brunching, traveling, snuggling her puppies, and gardening with her husband. The best piece of advice she received was, “Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing gonna be all right.” She has been described as creative, calm, and thoughtful.  

Want to find out more about how Marcy can help you? Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Saydee is a current student of Masters of Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology through Brandman University. Prior to her career coaching position here at UNT, she was a high school teacher in Mason City, Iowa. Saydee taught an elective course called Iowa Job’s for America’s Graduates (iJAG) where she was able to prepare high school students for life after graduation. This position with iJAG she taught students career skills, soft skills, financial management, resume writing, interviewing skills, and counseled students using trauma informed care. Saydee worked as a social worker with the County of San Bernardino for over seven years, which included career counseling clients who were working with the welfare-to-work program and assessing clients with disabilities.

Saydee is passionate about helping those around her become the best versions of themselves. She thrives on curiosity and learning new things. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, their dachshund Waylon, and going on adventures with her teenager daughter. Saydee is excited for the opportunity to work with students and helping them find their passion and purpose in life beyond college!

Robyne Ciza is a Career Coach for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences supporting Communication, Dance & Theatre, Journalism, Media Arts and Technical Communication majors.

As a first generation University of North Texas Alumna, Robyne has earned both a Master of Business Administration in Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with a concentration in Public Relations. Passionate about bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, Robyne is eager to enable students to think deeply about their strengths and develop skills that ensure career readiness.

Corey Davidson is the Assistant Director, Technology & Experiential Programs for the UNT Career Center. He supports students in the following Colleges: Liberal Arts and Social Sciences – Mass Communications Majors (Communication Studies, Media Arts, Converged Broadcast Media, Professional Technical Communications, and Dance & Theatre); Mayborn School of Journalism; Music; Visual Arts and Design. Corey earned a B.A. in English from the University of North Texas. He likes helping UNT students because so many students come into the office stressed and overwhelmed by the thought of trying to plan their careers. He loves being able to help them break down the process and remove some of that stress. When he is not at UNT, he enjoys spending time with family, reading books, drinking coffee, playing and listening to music, and drinking more coffee. The best piece of advice he received was, “Pursue what you are passionate about.” He has been described as a context seeker who works from intellection and a place of humor whenever possible. Want to find out more about our internship programs related to majors within the Colleges of Music, Visual Arts and Design, Journalism, and Liberal Arts and Social Sciences-Mass Communications?  Students can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Want to find out more about what technology we are using to ensure the success of our students? Email Corey at corey.davidson@unt.edu.

LeAndra DiNicola is the Student Employment Coordinator. LeAndra earned a B.B.A. from Northwood University. She likes helping UNT students because they are the reason faculty and staff are here and she believes in providing excellent customer service to the entire UNT community.  In fact, having a student come in discouraged by the job search process and being able to help them locate, apply and land an on-campus position makes her day! When she is not at UNT, she is often gardening, reading, spending time with family, and her many rescue pets. The best piece of advice she received was, “Do the job you have now to the best of your ability. Always have pride in a job well done no matter how big or small.” She has been described as short, sassy, and customer-service oriented.

Want to find out more about our student employment opportunities, events, and newsletter? Email LeAndra at Leandra.Dinicola@unt.edu.

Jazmyne Dixson is Internship Specialist here at UNT in the Career Center. She supports students in the Colleges of Education, Merchandising, Hospitality & Tourism, Information, Engineering, and Science. She is a UNT Alumni, receiving both her Bachelors and Masters in Recreation, Event, & Sport Management. Jazmyne has served in various roles on campus and loves to attend Mean Green Athletics events. As a former UNT student, she is extremely passionate about assisting our students in reaching their professional and personal goals by connecting them with jobs, internships, and mentors that allows them to have impactful experiences to learn and grow from. Jazmyne hopes to connect student, faculty and staff on campus and continue to serve the amazing campus that once served her #GoMeanGreen

Amy Ferman is the Associate Director for Employer Services. Amy earned an M.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of North Texas (Go Mean Green!) and a B.A. in Communications from Stephen F. Austin State University. She has worked for UNT for 23 years and previously worked in the Registrar’s Office and the College of Business Academic Advising Office. She likes using the network she has formed over the years to help guide decisions and create meaningful connections for students. She enjoys working with employers who are loyal to UNT because of our students’ work ethic. When she is not at UNT, she is exploring Denton’s Downtown Square and enjoying its shops and restaurants.

Want to find out more about how you can recruit UNT students? Email Amy at amy.ferman@unt.edu or call 940.565.2622.

Laura Garza is a Career Coach and supports students at the College of Engineering (CENG) at UNT Discovery Park.

Laura earned an M.S. in Counseling from Troy University and a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Maryland.  She also earned a Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity-Threat Detection through Webster University in 2017. Laura enjoys helping UNT students explore their majors and potential career paths which line up with their natural preferences. When she is not at UNT, she loves traveling. The best piece of advice she received was “Luck favors the prepared.” She has been described as a listener, creative, resourceful.

Current undergraduate and graduate students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

James Grandfield is an Internship Specialist at the UNT Career Center. He is an alum and earned his Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) with a focus on Organizations and Supervision in 2022 after working over 30 years in the Restaurant and Hospitality industry. While a student at UNT, James enjoyed working in two internships, and he had the opportunity to do a service-learning project with local non-profit charities. James is passionate about helping to facilitate creative and experiential learning opportunities for students.

When not at work, James enjoys getting out into nature and experiencing its beauty. His three cats help him stay grounded, and they remind him every day that we all need each other to thrive and be happy. He also rides a motorcycle to UNT every day.

James’ best piece of career advice for students comes from U.S. General and Secretary of State, Colin Powell, “Never let your ego get so close to your position that when your position goes, your ego goes with it.”

Hello! My name is Emily Harris, and I oversee the High School Career Connect Peer Mentor Program and Career Readiness Peer Mentor Programs within the Career Center. In addition to these areas, I also serve as a Career Coach generalist with a focus on supporting the needs of Journalism students and faculty. I am a first-generation college graduate with a B.S. in Psychology from Tarleton State University and an M.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of North Texas (Go Mean Green!). My background in higher education includes experiences in Orientation, New Student Programming, Career Coaching and Leadership Development. As a Career Coach, I get so much fulfillment out of supporting students through the many challenges associated with getting career ready and enjoy helping them recognize their value and develop confidence in their skills and experiences through individualized, one on one coaching. Student development is my passion and I absolutely LOVE this work! Outside of UNT, I serve as a Co-Lead Facilitator for the LeaderShape Institute where I get to travel and facilitate leadership curriculum to high school and college students across the nation. When I am not Coaching, I am mom to two little ones, several houseplants and an Aussie named Houston. I enjoy being outdoors and love camping, hiking, and traveling to National Parks with my family any chance I get, as well as exploring my creative side through art, graphic design, and interior design. 

Want to learn more about how Emily can help you get career ready? Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Amy Hicks is a Career Coach, and she supports Experienced UNT Alumni who graduated more than 1 year ago. Amy earned an MBA from Texas Woman’s University and a Bachelor of General Studies in Criminal Justice and Health Studies from Texas Woman’s University. Amy likes helping students and alumni by exploring opportunities and identifying strengths and skills to create action steps for professional growth. She works with clients to create connection strategies and effective documents, and to fully utilize tools and resources. Amy also teaches Professional Development Strategies in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. When she is not at UNT, she enjoys being a mom to three fantastic children, exploring nature and the outdoors, and listening to all types of music. The best piece of advice she received was, “just be yourself” and ”spend the time on it if you love it – learn how to change, eliminate, or become more efficient with other things so that you can.” She has been described as inquisitive, encouraging, and energetic.

Schedule an Appointment

Would you like to meet with Amy? Appointment options include in-person, phone, Zoom, and email.

• Experienced Alumni who graduated more than 1 year ago (except Business alumni) can register for an Alumni Small Group Coaching and Resume Refresh Session.
• Experienced Alumni who graduated more than 1 year ago (except Business alumni) can schedule individual appointments through Handshake.
• For assistance with appointment scheduling (including Handshake and Zoom), go to Schedule an Appointment.

Brian Hirsch is the Senior Associate Director and supports the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Brian earned an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi, a M.Ed. in College Counseling and Student Personnel Administration from Southern Mississippi University, and a B.S. in Zoology from LA Tech. He likes helping UNT students because they are very coachable, they are very hard workers, and they care about what they do when they go out into the “world.” When he is not at UNT, he enjoys reading and hanging out with his family. The best piece of advice he received was “You need to learn to laugh at yourself.” He has been described as dedicated, focused, and a learner.

Want to find out more about how Brian can help you? His office is located in the Wilson Jones Career Center – BLB 195. Current undergraduate and graduate students can schedule an appointment through Navigate, and alumni can schedule an appointment through Handshake.

Elizabeth Hubbard is the Internship Coordinator for Logistics and Operations Management (LOM) students in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. She earned a Masters of Business Administration from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Arts from Brigham Young University – Hawaii. Prior to coming to UNT, she worked in high tech, taught at the University of San Francisco and Golden Gate University, then became a serial entrepreneur founding several technology-based entities. As a Certified Personal Finance Educator (CPFE), she helped people learn to control their personal finances instead of their money – or lack thereof – controlling them. Outside of UNT she is active in church, tutors and mentors students, and continues developing her craft of writing and editing award-winning and bestselling creative non-fiction books.

Elizabeth has a rich and varied academic heritage whose mantra is “the search never ends”. Her advice to students is to develop a love of learning and embrace the fact that you will never know everything. During her life she has taken formal and informal courses internationally in law, music, information systems and computer science, personal finance, creative writing, and publishing. “The more I learn, the more I realize how little I know.”

LOM students can schedule online or in-person appointments through Navigate

My name is Stan Hughes, and I am a Career Coach in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. I am an Army veteran who served in Desert Storm in 1990 where I was injured during battle. While my military career was cut short due to injuries, I still had a passion to help our veterans through volunteering and creating various programs. During my journey of serving our veterans, I assisted with homelessness, HIV counseling, money management resources, and helped to create outreach programs to better serve their daily needs. I felt I could better serve our veteran population through education. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois in 2012. I continued my education at Benedictine University where I received my master’s degree in Organizational Behavior in 2015 and an MBA in 2017. I look forward to helping/assisting our next generation of amazing UNT students.

An interesting fact about me is I love to grill. I am always trying new recipes and perfecting my grilling craft.

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Stacey Jones is a Career Coach and supports New College and all students at UNT at Frisco. Stacey earned a BAAS and a BS in Sociology from UNT.  She likes helping UNT students achieve their personal and career goals by developing their leadership skills. When she is not at UNT Stacey enjoys spending time with her family and taking long walks with her miniature Dachshund Ruby. She has been described as extremely organized, a good communicator, and very thoughtful.

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Beth Kent is an Associate Director and Career Coach who supports the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Beth earned a BBA in Management from Michigan State University.  Beth likes helping UNT students because she believes all students can find their ‘success’ when we take time to coach and guide them on developing their skills and talents, teach them to follow their passions and challenge them to be leaders.  When she is not at UNT Beth enjoys working in her yard and gardens, doing anything outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.  She has two grown successful kids and loves to travel to Colorado to visit her daughter and go hiking when she can.  The best piece of advice she received was “Life is short, take time to smell the roses and live with purpose!”  She has been described as detail oriented, strong and a good listener.

Want to find out more about how Beth can help you? Her office is located in the Wilson Jones Career Center, BLB 195 and students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Marcus King is a Career Coach supporting students in the College of Education. Marcus earned an Ed.D. in Ethical Leadership from the University of St. Thomas (Texas), a M.S. in Sports Administration from Eastern New Mexico University and B.A. in Political Science from Northeastern State University. Marcus has a robust background in college basketball coaching having navigated the dynamic landscape of collegiate sports for over two decades. Recognizing the importance of self-awareness and resilience in career choice he utilizes holistic student development, expertise in mentorship, aptitude for performance enhancement to be a resource for students preparing for their professional journey.

Chido Kwande is a Career Coach and supports the College of Engineering (CENG) at UNT Discovery Park. Chido earned a bachelor’s degree in Law at the University of Zimbabwe. She practiced Law for over 10 years in the corporate, real estate and civil areas.

Prior to joining the Career Center, Chido worked in the Computer Science Department holding various positions as Office Associate, Administrative Specialist and Snr Administrative Specialist. In all these positions Chido had the pleasure to guide and support students in their UNT academic journey’s. Chido is focused on student success and ensuring students realize their career goals.

When she is not at UNT, she likes to host events, spend time with her family and try new recipes.

Janice Lader is a Career Coach and supports the College of Health and Public Service. She earned an M.Ed. in Student Affairs from Regent University and a B.A. in English from Regent University. She likes helping UNT students because she enjoys getting to know students and helping them to identify career paths based on their interests and goals, and then establishing the route necessary to successfully reach their destinations. When she is not at UNT, she is spending time with her daughter and two dogs, going to concerts and live theatre performances, working on her creative writing, and taking on DIY projects at home. The best piece of advice she received was, “If you bang on enough doors, one is bound to open.” She has been described as compassionate, motivated, and creative.

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Hannah MacIntyre is a Career Coach supporting students in the College of Education. Hannah is a current Ph.D. Candidate in CAS/Anthropology at Washington State University where she also earned her M.A. in Anthropology. She earned her B.A. in History right here at UNT. (Go Mean Green!) Before joining the Career Center Team, Hannah served as a Public Anthropologist advancing government, Tribal, and community partnerships, research, and digital presence strategies. Hannah has experience teaching in a wide variety of educational settings; in addition to teaching college courses (Introduction to Anthropological Theory and Gender in Cross-cultural Perspectives), she taught high school (Government, Economics, US History, and World Geography) in the DFW Metroplex, and prior to that worked in public health outreach and education.

When not at work, she enjoys time with family, gardening, dancing, riding her bike, and checking out all that Denton has to offer. Hannah is excited to be back at UNT as a Career Coach; she values relationship building and report and is excited to help COE students discover their unique paths to greatness!

Olegario Madera, M.B.A., M.A., is dedicated to empowering students at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business to achieve their academic and professional aspirations. With over a decade of experience in higher education leadership and student success, Olegario brings a strategic and holistic approach to career coaching. His expertise includes career exploration, professional development, and helping students create actionable plans to excel in today’s competitive job market.

Olegario holds a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. This unique combination of business expertise and an understanding of interpersonal dynamics enables him to provide students with comprehensive guidance that addresses both their professional goals and professional development. Olegario spent over seven years at Stephen F. Austin State University working with a federally funded college and career access program. During this time, he established a strong track record of helping students navigate their journeys from enrollment to graduation and ultimately launching meaningful careers. His ability to connect with students, create impactful strategies, and collaborate with campus and community partners has made him a trusted resource for career development. As a first-generation college graduate, Olegario understands the transformative power of education and mentorship. His coaching philosophy is rooted in helping students align their career aspirations with their academic achievements and personal values, empowering them to make confident decisions about their futures.

Olegario is committed to continuous professional development, regularly expanding his expertise in areas such as leadership, career counseling, and project management to stay aligned with industry trends. Outside of his work, he enjoys engaging in community initiatives and fostering connections that inspire growth and innovation.When he’s not coaching, Olegario is a devoted family man who loves spending time with his wife and two daughters. His personal experiences inspire him to give back to his community and guide others toward success. Olegario values building strong relationships and creating opportunities for others to thrive, making him a compassionate and resourceful career coach.

Want to find out more about how Olegario can help you? His office is located in BLB 195 – G. Brint Ryan College of Business, Wilson Jones Career Center (Office H). Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Anna Motes is a Career Coach and supports the students at the College of Information (COI) at UNT Discovery Park.

Anna has a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science, both in Mathematics, from Texas A&M University in College Station. Before coming to UNT, Anna worked in the K-12 Education sector, managing an after-school math program. Anna likes helping UNT students because she loves to build relationships with her students, and she is continuously impressed by their hard-work and passion for their education and their futures. When not at UNT, Anna can be found reading mystery novels, watching baseball, doing puzzles, playing board games, and crafting. The best piece of advice Anna has received is “Who dares to teach must never cease to learn.” Some words that describe Anna are compassionate, problem-solver, dedicated, detail-oriented, and lifelong learner.

Ready to see how Anna can help you? Her office is in the Learning Technologies department of Discovery Park, room G-153.

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate or email Anna at anna.motes@unt.edu. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Sonya Pagel came to the University of North Texas from Black Hills State University (BHSU), where she taught as a Professor of Communication for twenty years. She received her Ph.D. in Organizational Communication from Ohio University. Sonya loves teaching. While at BHSU, she was awarded the College of Liberal Arts 2018-19 Award for Outstanding Teaching. She has taught Organizational Communication, Conflict Management, Small Group Communication and Leadership, Interpersonal Communication, Managerial Communication, Communication for the Professions, and Public Speaking. Sonya is also passionate about career development. She enjoys teaching UNT students how to discover new career paths, find jobs and internships, write effective resumes, and interview with confidence. A piece of advice, given to her by her father, that she continues to live by is “Pursue your dreams.”

Karla Perez is the Career Services Coordinator. She looks over the front desk students and works with the Student Employment team. Karla is a UNT Alumni; she earned a B.S. in Business Computer Information Systems and is currently working on her M.S. in Advanced Data Analytics. Karla has previous experience working at the Career Center as one of the Student Employment Assistants before transitioning to her current role. She loves to help students and supervisors with the on campus hiring process. When she is not at UNT, she is reading, baking, playing video games, and playing with her pets.

Jacob Rios is the Employer Development Coordinator for Employer Services within the Career Center. Jacob earned his B.S. in Business Administration from the University of California, Riverside graduating with Honors and as Valedictorian through the on-campus University Honors program. While completing his undergrad, Jacob had the opportunity to publish his research on the impact of Servant Leaders in a virtual work environment. Before joining the UNT team, Jacob held the position of Training Program Manager for a wealth management firm within the DFW area. He is fond of connecting with students, faculty, staff, employers alike and looks to do his best when serving the amazing community at UNT. When not at work, Jacob enjoys going on adventures with his younger brother, reading, trips to the movie theater, and following NFL football.

Jacob’s favorite quote is “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it” from William Arthur Ward as it serves as a friendly reminder.

Hello there! My name is Sarah Spath, and I am transitioning from an Internship Specialist to a Ryan College of Business Career Coach at the UNT Career Center. I received my Bachelor in Business Administration and Masters of Accounting from the University of Michigan in addition to my Masters of Higher Education from UNT. I like working with UNT students because of their openness, drive, and persistence. I learn from students as much as they learn from me. Every student has a unique background and perspective that has brought them to UNT, and I enjoy learning about their stories. When I am not at UNT, I enjoy going for walks, dancing, baking, indulging in reality shows, playing board games, traveling, and spending time with the people that mean the most to me. The best piece of advice I have ever received is to focus on what makes me happy. It sounds so simple, and I’ve heard it time and time again, but it has taken a while for me to truly understand how important it is to design your own life to continually refill your energy and happiness to sustain through the inevitable stressors and pressures that life may bring. If I could describe myself in 3 words, they would be: empathetic, passionate, and analytical.

Students can schedule an appointment through Navigate or email Sarah at sarah.spath@unt.edu.

Kate is currently serving the College of Science as a Career Coach. She is a First Generation, University of North Texas Alumni who completed her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with Honors in the Spring of 2022. Kate has a strong desire to guide students in their professional and personal development. She excels in encouraging and motivating students to accept and love who they are due to her strong belief that success comes from being confident. Kate’s mission is to be a resource to young professionals of UNT, due to her background of being a young professional herself. She aims to help them see that they are extraordinary just as they are by helping them eliminate comparison and overcome other mental barriers.

“Being a young professional is hard, especially if they are First Generation because you are essentially traveling into a deep dark unknown. I want to shed some light, and bring some guidance to those students and help them become their best selves.

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an online or in-person appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available to connect with a Career Coach on the Alumni page.

Clarence is a Career Coach for the College of Health and Public Service (HPS). He has his B.S. in Business Management from Alabama State University and his MPA from Louisiana State University. Clarence has a passion for helping students as he strives to help them translate their skills and experiences into internships and job opportunities. Clarence has worked with various political and policy organizations including Louisiana’s Public Affairs Research Council, The Southern Education Foundation, The Congressional Black Caucus, and various projects throughout Alabama’s 7^th Congressional District. He has also worked in various communities within cities such as Montgomery, Al; Memphis, TN; Syracuse, NY; and Washington D.C. Working in these various communities and with these different organizations has allowed Clarence to work with very diverse populations, which has enhanced his love for equity, inclusion, and people in general.

When Clarence is not at UNT he enjoys watching Netflix and spending time outdoors and lives by the motto that “life is about people. If you learn how to treat people fairly and communicate with them effectively, you will be successful.”

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Shunta Thomas is the Associate Director for College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, College of Health and Public Service, and Mayborn School of Journalism.

Shunta earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Illinois State University and a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Accounting from Tennessee State University. She also earned the following Texas Educator Certificates – Principal, Business, Marketing, ESL. Shunta has a lifelong passion and track record for helping youth exceed and reach their highest potential.

When she is not at UNT, she is volunteering in her community through the local high school, women’s clubs, and church. The best piece of advice she received is always strive for excellence, reflect on the learnings along your journey, and share your talents and gifts.

Want to find out more about how Shunta can help you? Her office is located in GAB 220AA.

Current undergraduate and graduate students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Kate Thompson is an Career Coach for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences here at UNT in the Career Center. She is a UNT Alumni, receiving both her Bachelors and Masters Degree in English. Working with students is a passion of hers, and she has previously taught English at both high school and collegiate levels. She is excited to collaborate with the amazing folks here at UNT and to help prepare students for success in a dynamic professional landscape!

Jaime Thomson is the Project Specialist for the Wilson Jones Career Center in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business.  Jaime earned a B.A. in History from Texas A&M University.  Before joining the Career Center, she worked in several UNT and UNT System departments, including the College of Education, the Office of the Chancellor, and the Office of Strategic Infrastructure, Planning & Construction.  Jaime can usually be found making spreadsheets, scheduling appointments for students, and doing her best to keep the office running smoothly.  She is excited to be part of the transformation that takes place when students embark on their career journeys.

Outside of work, Jaime enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and going to estate sales and thrift stores.  Her other hobbies include crochet, reading, and listening to music.  The best piece of advice she has ever received is “blessed are the flexible, for they shall never be bent out of shape.”

My name is Ashley Waggoner, I am a Career Coach for the Ryan College of Business in the Career Center at the University of North Texas. I am a born and raised Texan from the beautiful city of Denton, Texas and a proud UNT alumni, with a degree in Integrative Studies, specializing in Psychology and Hospitality Management.  I am extremely grateful and excited to be working at my alma mater, University of North Texas, where I am able to connect with employers and students.  My favorite part about my job is watching success stories happening, with recruitment success with employers coming to campus and helping prepare our students for their future successes.  Helping people, coordinating events, and recruiting have been passions within my career journey, now I am able to do these every day.  When I am not at my Mean Green home I enjoy being with my family, gardening, anything outdoors, and enjoying the little things in life. I live by one quote through my professional and personal journey in life because it reminds me to believe in myself and what I create around me, “If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced”-Van Gogh.

Torie Ward is a Career Coach for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at UNT’s Career Center. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Arts in History from Texas Tech University.

With a background in supporting UNT students through roles in the Toulouse Graduate School and Admissions, Torie is passionate about empowering students to uncover their strengths, set goals, and take meaningful steps toward their futures. She is excited to collaborate with the UNT community and help students prepare for success in their unique professional journeys.

Dee Wilson is a Career Coach and supports the College of Merchandising, Hospitality & Tourism (CMHT) and Spanish. Dee earned an M.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of North Texas and a B.B.A. in Business Administration & B.S. in Government from Texas Woman’s University. She worked 10 years in CMHT teaching the professional development course, processing internship approvals, conducting employer outreach to develop employment opportunities with industry recruiters, and coordinating career events. Dee likes helping UNT students because she enjoys seeing students succeed in developing themselves, discovering their passions and finding a career that is rewarding to them. When she is not at UNT, she spends time with her family, watches and attends sports events, watches movies, and goes to concerts/plays. The best piece of advice she received was “Be humble and listen more than you speak while showing interest in others.” She has been described as caring, detail-oriented, and dependable.

Want to find out more about how Dee can help you? Her office is located in Chilton Hall, Room 333. Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.