diamond mind - spring 2013

| www.temple.edu/rcc

Diamond MindThe Newsletter of the Russell Conwell Educational Services Center

Volume 4 : Issue: Spring 2013

The mission of the Russell Conwell Center (RCC) has

been to provide university access and comprehensive academic and educational support to talented students who were academically under-prepared, enabling them to achieve academic success leading to graduation. In addition to their academic under-preparedness, RCC students often dealt with other attributes that posed a challenge to their academic success and graduation; such as low income status, first generation college student, placement in developmental math, excessively high hours of employment, etc. As demonstrated through the volume of retention research, these factors pose a high attrition risk for students, and a combination of them increases their attrition risk significantly. However, the RCC Structured First Year Program combined with the drive and resilience of the students, has led to freshmen and sophomore student retention levels comparable or higher than the general student body.

Given the years of success the RCC has had in preparing students to pursue their academic goals, the RCC broadened its mission in 2012-2013 to offer services to all Temple students. At the be-hest of the University, the RCC expansion into a Temple Univer-sity Learning Center began. The RCC will continue to admit and support students in conjunction with its original mission, along with providing academic support to the Temple student body. These

The Russell Conwell CenterA Learning Center for Temple University

efforts will augment the work of faculty, academic advisors, and all staff in providing and teaching our student body. Moreover, the Russell Conwell Learning Center is able to provide the extra assis-tance that faculty and departments desire, but lack due to budget and time constraints.

In our expansion of student sup-port and service, we implemented several new initiatives in 2012-13 to support students, faculty and de-partments. In collaboration with the CST and University Studies, the RCC partnered a pilot program to provide academic coaching to students on warning, probation or experiencing academic challeng-es. The Academic Coaches were trained through a rigorous credit-bearing seminar in academic and educational theory and practice. The students who agree to the coaching program met with their

Academic Coach starting mid-Spring to review their study skills, note-taking, time management and other academic skills and strate-gies. Moreover, they had the op-portunity to gain insight from the Coaches in the nuances of college, social life, and the interpersonal adjustments that many college stu-dents encounter.

A second initiative involved the provision on Supplemental In-struction (SI), which is a proven, best practice retention model that targets courses with high rates of F/W/I grades. We identified cours-es at Temple that have proven to be challenging to all students and meet the SI criteria, and imple-mented two SI approaches this year to improve student learning and performance. The first ver-sion was a standard model where a tutor who received an “A” in the course was selected and trained

as an SI facilitator, sitting in on the class and leading a structured study group throughout the semes-ter.

The second model was in partner-ship with the Teaching and Learn-ing Center (TLC) and offered a unique academic intervention. In this model, TLC jointly provided the professor with a Mentor from the Provost Teaching Academy, in addition to the standard SI classroom facilitator. The faculty mentor met with the instructor to provide thoughts on how to create deeper learning experiences, lead-ing to improved performance.

For the students in CLA who par-ticipated, they experienced a 69% increase in their GPA from the past semester, while the participating students in DUS experienced a 37% increase. Moreover, partici-pating CLA students had a 24% higher GPA than students who were similarly referred, but chose not to participate. DUS partici-pating students experienced a 3% higher GPA than those who chose not to participate in the coaching support. We look forward to ex-panding our SI efforts to support faculty instruction and student learning in the 2013-14 academic year.

If you are interested in learning more about the new role and ser-vices offered by the Russell Con-well Learning Center, feel free to call 215-204-1252 and ask for me, or one of my Assistant Directors, James Sellers or Donesha Hood.

-Michael Stokes, Director

Students at Academic Coach training.


Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society

Chi Alpha Epsilon, or XAE was originally a psychology honor society, but today XAE incorporates a wide range of majors, as

well as recognizing high grade point average and specific character traits. Members are asked to embody five distinct qualities: Excellence, Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Ingenuity. Along with these characteristics XAE members need to excel academically, encourage others to excel as well and work together with peers who support the same goals. The requirement to be inducted is to have a 3.0 GPA or higher for two consecutive semesters as well as cumulatively. This year the Russell Conwell Center was proud to induct 16 new students on April 12th, 2013.

The details of the induction ceremony are kept secret, but there is a certain process students follow to be formally inducted. There are essentially two parts of the ceremony; one for the students to be inducted and another for the family. Families are given a PowerPoint Presentation in one room about the program, while the inductees participate in a ceremony where they learn about XAE’s values, and receive their tassels. Then the students rejoin their family who will pin them and complete the induction. Allyson Brown, the president of the XAE chapter, is responsible for saying the pledge and educating the new members about the history of Chi Alpha Epsilon.

In addition to the new inductees other students receive “pin upgrades”. While members must have a 3.0 GPA to get in, students who demonstrate higher academics and GPA receive pin upgrades. A student with a cumulative GPA of a 3.4 to 3.74 over two consecutive semesters will be upgraded to the Ruby level. A GPA of 3.75 to 3.99 can receive an Emerald pin, and students with a cumulative GPA of a 4.0 will be upgraded to the Diamond level. Pin upgrades encourage students to continue to strive to reach higher academic standards.

Being inducted is a very big honor for students. When asked how she felt about being eligible for induction into XAE, Rosalie Pena said, “I could not believe it! I was ecstatic. I was part of the first national honor society in my high school. [But] since Temple is so big I never thought nor looked into being a part of a national honor society and I am so happy that I am now!” Not only is the induction a tribute to the hard work that these students have completed, but also is used to perpetuate high grades. Students, like Verishia Coaxum, consider this honor as a motivator as they continue their time at Temple. “Being inducted into the XAE National Honor Society has motivated me to continue to strive for

Juwan Bennett

Chelsea Blaney

Samuel Botwinick

Verishia Coaxum

Joel Culbreath

Kayla Gregg

Javon Johnson

Jaslyn Johnson

Minh Le

Jamie Lewis

Michael Martin

Rosalie Pena

Lena Powell

Jamia Pugh

Lauren Selden

Sereyvibol So

better grades.” Coaxum says, “It has made me realize the rewards that come with hard work and dedication. I am excited to continue my career at Temple University and will strive to get the diamond upgrade.”

XAE is not all about “getting good grades”. It is a group where students can find peers who are dedicated to their studies as well. In order to encourage and facilitate relationships between the members, different events are held. The most recent was a basketball tournament between the new members and the staff of the RCC. To keep up high attendance of such events, Brown has said that she is going to talk to the new students to see what type of activities they like doing. XAE members also participate in a lot of community service activities, most notably working with St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and homeless shelters. Recently, members have been working with Philabundance to help the hunger problem in Philadelphia.

The XAE Honor Society allows students to connect with others who share their high standards in academics. It is a place where students continuously support each other. The sense of accomplishment by reaching this point in college more than speaks for itself. Sophomore Javon Johnson expressed feelings shared by many of her peers. “My hard work for the past two semesters finally paid off. I thought I was going to have a hard time just passing Summer Bridge, but here I am. It was so cool to see people from two years ago [from Summer Bridge] reach the same point that I am at.”

-Christina Betz, Editorial Intern

Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society2012-2013 Inductees

Joining the Ranks of the Honored


New Student ReceptionReceiving your college acceptance letter is a euphoric

time. Those acceptance letters represent all of the hard work you’ve pumped into your high school career. After the cheers, and sometimes tears, of joy, the next step is to visit each school to ensure it is the right fit for you. Temple University hosts “Experience Temple Day,” providing an opportunity for students and their family’s to visit the campus, enjoy lunch, meet with Temple representatives, and for those accepted through the Russell Conwell Center a chance to meet the staff they would be working with.

During these “mini-orientation” days, the RCC staff provide parents with a general overview of what the RCC has to offer such as scholarships, the laptop loan program, one-on-one tutoring services and much more. This overview is particularly beneficial for the students accepted because they

Preparing for the 2013 Summer Bridge ProgramGraduation and prom are over and students are preparing to

attend Temple University in the Fall 2013 semester. Many have heard of the renowned Summer Bridge Program, which prepares talented entering Temple freshmen for success in their freshmen year and thereafter. As I tell our students at the start of the summer, the Summer Bridge Program is akin to “academic boot camp.” It is rigorous and challenging, yet very rewarding and fulfilling. The Summer Bridge Program is an academic immersion program designed to prepare students for the transition to University academic and social life. Furthermore, the Summer Bridge will deconstruct students’ misunderstanding of collegiate norms and expectations, as well as provide new strategies and techniques for them to achieve academic success. Key to the transition to University culture is the development of students’ critical thinking and analytical skills, and the development of a community of learners.

The Summer Bride Program begins on 6/26 with the Opening Ceremony and student participation in New Student Orientation on 6/27-28. Formal courses begin on 7/8 and continue through 8/16. The Summer Bridge math and English courses were constructed with the assistance of the respective academic departments to parallel University courses. The math courses have differentiated levels to accommodate students’ varied skill levels, while the English courses are designed to increase students’ writing ability, argumentation and analysis. Moreover, students will complete a freshman seminar that prepares students for college while teaching them time tested acdemic skills and strategies that increase learning and classroom performance. The course will also facilitate their university acclimation. In addition to their academic endeavors, students will engage in various co-curricular and leadership activities that promote involvement, service and positive social interactions.

are able to see who might be their advisor, tutor or academic coach and ask them any initial questions they may have about college. This also allows students to have a sense of familiarity as they walk onto campus at the beginning of fall semester.

For many students and their families, attending the new student reception seals the deal. It is one thing to read information about Temple University but to actually attend the campus and meet those you will be working with makes it feel real. Creating bonds with their peers and advisors will give them a step up as they begin their freshman year and allow for a much more fluid transition in the fall. We are excited to welcome the class of 2017 and look forward to working with each scholar.

-Alexandra Olivier, Editorial Intern

After meeting with students at various Pre-Bridge events, they have shown to be enthusiastic and talented. The incoming class includes students in every college and represents a highly diverse group. A sampling of their profile reveals:

• Over 100 High Schools Represented (Northeast and GW f High School highest number)• The College of Science and Technology and Health vfffProfessions and Social Work are the Most Common Colleges• Undeclared Health Professions and Business are the Most Popular majors• Their average HS GPA is 3.28 with 4 students owning a perfect GPA (4.0 average)

• 21 students are entering with college credits

In the RCC, we are excited about the possibilities the future holds for our new class and look forward to celebrating their graduation 4 years from now.



College is one of the biggest times in anyone’s life. It is the stepping stone to the next phase in your career and life, and a crucial part in discovering who you are. Before the class of 2013 left, we asked them to reminisce about their time spent at Temple and with the RCC, as well as their feelings about impending graduation and their plans afterward. We would

like to wish our graduates good luck as they move on and pursue their dreams!

Congrats Graduates!

I am a little nervous about graduation, but at the same time it is a big accomplishment for me. I plan to take a year off from school to work and gain

some experience in the field and go back to get my Master’s degree. The things that that I will miss most about Temple and the RCC are the communication, family, tutoring, bonding, one-on-one time, peers and most of all the friends that I made who stuck by my side. Thank You RCC Friends and Family!!

-Lisa Crump

As I approach graduation, I’m feeling a mix of emotions. While I’m excited to enter a new stage in my life, I can’t help but feel a sort of sadness and anxiety

as I leave Temple and especially the RCC. I think that without the RCC, I would not have survived college. They were my support system for the past 4 years and have been extremely helpful with my goals in life. My future plans include producing a documentary focusing on child abuse and possibly working for a production com-pany. While the past 4 years have been the best years of my life, I’m excited to see where life takes me.

-Diana Brody

My most memorable moments have been apply-

ing for graduation,and partici-pating in the XAE induction!

-Joanna Lam


I am really going to miss Temple University. I met a lot of good people throughout my years and learned a great deal.

Temple has laid the foundation for my future which includes going to law school and obtaining my law degree.

-Shahiran Brown

My most memorable moment is when I was part of Temple Universi-ty’s Russell Conwell Center (RCC) Program. I remember when the RCC staff

awarded me the Intern of the Year and First Place Portfolio Competition Win-ner Award in May 2010. In the following months, I continued to work for the RCC as a Math Classroom Assistant where I assisted incoming freshmen in the six week Summer Bridge Program. I have waited for four years to receive my Diamond Pin Upgrade (Semester 4.0 GPA) and made my last farewell speech during the Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society Ceremony in April 2013. Within these four years, the RCC has continuously provided me with scholar-ship opportunities and unwavering support.

-James Tang

I am most excited about relocating to a new state to study Spanish. I thrive off of new beginnings. I will miss the

RCC immensely, especially, the staff and relationships I’ve gained from students and professionals. I will miss the small talk and quick advice from special individuals.

-D’Juan Lyons

Everlasting Memories with TU and The RCC!

In my memory, there are many great moments at Tem-ple. I went through so much. The bitter-sweet memories of

Summer Bridge, for example, remain like a vivid film in my heart. It was the start of the adventure and yet a crucial and decisive moment. Many moments were marked by friends from so many different backgrounds. Friends that became like family to me.

-Angelica Colon del Jesus

I am extremely excited to be graduating from Temple University. I’m proud of myself for making it through college

and for making my family very proud of me. Since I am a film student, I will be doing as much film work as I can after I leave Temple and will always remember being a student at this Uni-versity.

-Kevin LeCato


2012-13 RCC GraduatesSana Abdul-Malik - Psychology

Shannon Abraham - Advertising

Whittney Amos - English

Razie Amzovski - Early Childhood Education

Samantha Apollon - Broadcasting/Telecom/Mass Media

Karimata Bah - Public Health

Christopher Barmore - Mathematics

Christopher Benitez - Marketing

Sunyana Benjamin - Social Work

Betsy Benjamin - Anthropology

Paola Bome - Health Information Management

Carlzel Bostic - Finance

Yolanda Boykins - Anthropology

Kiana Bracey - Legal Studies

Asia Broadus - Communications

Diana Brody - Broadcasting/Telecom/Mass Media

Gianna Brown - Broadcasting/Telecom/Mass Medi

Shahirah Brown - Legal Studies

Mary Bui - Advertising

Taliba Campbell - African-American Studies

Judith Casanova - Film and Media Arts

Natasha Chase - English

Minghui Chen - Actuarial Science

Tien Chia - Criminal Justice

Christina Cintron - Criminal Justice, ProRanger

Rebecca Clymer - Chemistry

Jonathan Cofer - African-American Studies

Christie Cohen - Early Childhood Education

Diamaris Cole - Broadcasting/Telecom/Mass Media

Angelica Colon del Jesus - Psychology

Lisa Crump - Social Work

Christina Cruz - Public Health

Evan Demianczyk - Secondary Education, English

Catherine Duffield - Secondary Ed, World Languages

Mohammad El-Hajmoussa - Biology

Ashley English - English

Dalissa English - Finance

Ashlee Fuglio - Marketing

Hoi Fung - Health Information Management

Nasya Gay - Anthropology

Jasmine Gibson - Political Science

Jeta Gjana - Management Information Systems

Anthony Greco - Film and Media Arts

Brittany Guarniere - Early Childhood Education

Ivy Guinto - Psychology

Alise Hammond - Journalism

Rebecca Harding - Accounting

Emily Hart - History

Rasha Hasan - Accounting

Kyhna Hearn - Social Work

Ivan Herrera - Photography

Anna Hoang - Biology

Harry Hoang - Mechanical Engineering

Tiffany Hoang - Actuarial Science

Desirae Holland - Journalism

Jervaise Huang - Finance

Steven Inthavongsa - Information Science & Technology

Jafin Isac - Kinesiology

Emanuel Izilov - International Business

Jessica Jackson - Electrical Engineering

Aleksaida James - Communications

Yao Jiang - Finance

Jeffrey Jones - Therapeutic Recreation

Paul Kannadan - Biochemistry

Vatche Kaprielian - Information Science & Technology

Andrew Kim - International Affairs

Justin Kinney - Marketing

Rachel Knable - Communications

Julia Kochetkova - Psychology

Morav Kupa - Italian

Joanna Lam - Information Science & Technology

Moranda Lavasani - Strategic-Organizational Communications

Long Le - Health Information Management

Andrew Le - Accounting

Andrew Le - Criminal Justice

Kevin Lecato - Film and Media Arts

Undergraduate Degrees


Marina Leong - Accounting

Brian Littlepage - Civil & Construction Engineering Tech.

Anil Loungani - Film and Media Arts

D’Juan Lyons - Spanish

Niya Mack - Public Health

Evangelia Malahias - Biochemistry

Sheranda Martin - Strategic-Organizational Communications

Stephanie Martinez - International Business

Shannon McBride - Risk Management and Insurance

Eboni McClam - English

Sharnell McCleary - Public Health

Octavia McLean - Public Health

JaMina Midgette - Film and Media Arts

Lyudmila Migachev - Early Childhood Education

Yvette Mott - Nursing RN-BSN

Amanda Murphy - Early Childhood Education

Trung Nguyen - Human Resource Management

Hong Nguyen - Finance

Nhi Nguyen - Chemistry

Paulene Niessen - Therapeutic Recreation

Asheley Ollennu - English

Emy Oommen - Chemistry

Bernice Oscar - Anthropology

Ashley Pesin - Elementary Education

Sherin Philipose - Environmental Science

Vincent Rao - Chemistry

Shanise Redmon - Journalism

Danielle Rosati - Journalism

Alba Rushiti - Kinesiology

Gabriela Sanchez - Theater

Anthony Sarandrea - Film and Media Arts

Bridget Sawyer - Nursing

Noel Scales - Broadcasting/Telecom/Mass Media

Tyhesia Scott - Communications

Anthony Shepherd - Psychology

Jonathan Sheridan - Accounting

Charnee Smith - Broadcasting/Telecom/Mass Media

Shevon Smith - Kinesiology

Ashley Snyder - Criminal Justice

Ashley Snyder - Spanish

Ashley Snyder - Tourism & Hospitality Management

Ashley Snyder - Secondary Education, Social Studies

Tamanna Sultana - Chemistry

James Tang - Human Resource Management

Jasmin Taylor - Psychology

Gardhy Tejeda - Criminal Justice

Denisa Teme - Management Information Systems

Dyanta Timmerman - Social Work

Ngoc To - Finance

Charlie Tran - Criminal Justice

Nancy Tran - Health Information Management

Hoan Tran - Environmental Studies

Sarah Tucker - Legal Studies

Erik Waldman - Film and Media Arts

Tanisha Walker - Applied Communications

Kymberli Walters - Public Health

Marissa Williams - Psychology

Christopher Williams - Broadcasting-Telecom-Mass Media

Shawnna Williams - Painting

Asia Williams-Wilkins - Marketing

Tyneisha Wimbush - Public Health

Jianchun Yang - Actuarial Science

Richard Yoka - Kinesiology

Erdit Zenelaj - Accounting

Xiao Zheng - Accounting

Wenchao Zhong - Chemistry

Graduate/Professional DegreesJamal Benin - Ph.D, Urban Education

Deana Davis - Master of Social Work

Jessica Dixon - Master of Education, Dance

Suezette Fonseca - Master of Social Work

Rong Gao - Ph.D Pharmacy

Virginia Kocieda - Ph.D Microbiology Immunology

John Nguyen - MBA Business Administration

Patricia Smith - Master of Science, Quality Assurance/ Reg Affrs

Lauren Sykes - Master of Education, Early Education

Chen Tang - Master of Science, Financial Engineering


RCC Students on the Move!From Academic Coaches to members of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, the students at the Russell Conwell Center sure know how to stay busy. Thanks to programs like Summer Bridge, students are able to ease into college life, making their transition as smooth as possible. Because of this, incoming freshman feel more comfortable in joining different clubs and taking advantage of their opportunities at Temple University. We would like to review some of the amazing things the RCC students are doing as they travel their path to greatness. -Christina Betz, Editorial Intern

Tamika Adams is a rising junior with a Public Health major. Tamika graduated high school as the 2011 class Valedictorian and was part of the Health Occupational Students

of America (HOSA), the National Honor Society, the White William Scholars and the Ellis Trust. Currently, she is involved with the To Our Children’s Future With Health (TOCFWH) REACH Grant, which focuses on targeting nutrition and physical activity in Philadelphia. She will also be working at the Russell Conwell Center this academic year as an Academic Coach. Tamika is taking summer classes for the first time this year to stay on track and graduate in December of 2014.

Diana Brody graduated with a major in Broadcasting, Telecommunications and Mass Media. She spends a lot of her time with the Russell Conwell Center as an Ambassador, an Act 101 Association

Board Member and the Secretary for the XAE National Honor Society. Diana was inducted into the Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society in her sophmore year, and went on to achieve a place on the Dean’s List her entire junior year. Diana hopes to become a television producer in the future, and has already been very involved with production at Temple in the form of Temple SMASH! a popular sketch show run entirely by students. Recently, she studied production in London as part of the Study Abroad program, where Diana also worked as a Peer Advisor for the School of Media and Communication. Her dream job would to be work for famous award shows like the Emmys or Golden Globes.

Joel Culbreath is a Philadelphia native and graduated from William L. Sayre High School as the valedictorian. Joel says that despite being the valedictorian, attending college was a huge milestone for him, since he is a

first generation student. He is a social work major, and would like to graduate with honors, pursue his dream of receiving his Masters in Social Work, and perhaps even earn his PhD. Joel is involved with multiple RCC programs including the Freshmen Interest Group (FIG) and Man-to-Man. He was also appointed as a panelist for the high school reception program. As part of his dream to one-day work with a nonprofit organization in Philadelphia, Joel participates in the Urban Nutrition Initiative, which stimulates the growth of fresh produce in West Philadelphia.


Heba Elabed is a rising senior majoring in Psychology with a minor in Public Health and a certificate in Arabic. Heba is a tutor at the Russell Conwell Center. She is a member of

the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society where she was recently upgraded to the Ruby pin. She also serves as the Public Relations Chair in the newly created Student Interfaith Initiative. Aside from on-campus activities, Heba is also an active member in the Philabundance food drive that is available in her neighborhood churches and mosques, mostly in the Northeast region of Philadelphia. She will be working as an Academic Coach in the upcoming 2013-2014 year. Heba is not sure exactly what she wants to do after graduation, but hopes that she will be able to inspire and motivate those around her.

Giavanna Garsey is in the rising sophomore class of 2016. She is majoring in Tourism and Hospitality Management with a concentration in Hospitality Operations, and is pursuing

a general business minor. Gia is a Russell Conwell Center Ambassador and interns for the Apex internship. She is also an Academic Coach for the RCC. Gia enjoys volunteering at many events for Temple including Experience Temple Day and Open House. She will be working as a Classroom Assistant for the Freshman seminar course in the 2013 Summer Bridge Program, in an effort to help students adjust to the expectations of college life.

Marc Anthony Harris-Gardner is a sophomore and is majoring in Media Studies and Production. Marc Anthony grew up in Yeadon, outside of Southwest Philadelphia. With dreams of becoming a successful Radio or

TV personality, his work with Temple’s Radio Stations W.H.I.P has given him some his most rewarding college experiences. He is currently the Radio Host for “King B With The Buzz” from “The Saga” as well as the Executive Secretary for the Student Run WHIP. In his spare time, Marc Anthony spends time as a member of both the Main Campus Program Board and Black Student Union. He also serves as the secretary for Unity in the Community.

Stephanie Hernandez would like to eventually attend law school and become a lawyer, building on her studies as a Criminal Justice major with a minor in Sociology. She is a member of the Criminal Justice Society, the XAE

National Honor Society, Temple’s Pre-Law Society and the National Society of Collegiate Student. She also founded, and is currently president, of the Temple Belly Dancing Club. Stephanie tutors English and Spanish, works as an English Classroom Assistant at the RCC and is a group leader at the Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia.


Javon Johnson is a rising junior with a major in Secondary Education and a minor in Spanish. She was a Math and English Tutor, and a Community Fellow for the Upward

Bound Program at Temple University. Javon works for the Russell Conwell Center as an Academic Coach and is a Classroom Assistant for the English class during the Summer Bridge Program. Javon volunteers at the Youth Build Charter and is a youth leader of Sharon Baptist Church’s youth ministry. At Youth Build Charter, a GED program for high school dropouts, Javon tutors students in English and Math. After graduating college Javon plans to attend graduate school, obtain a M.Ed. and become certified to be the principal of a school.

Dashaunta Hinmon is currently majoring in Social Work. She has volunteered for multiple community service projects including Jump Start, Fresh Serve, and Philabundance and is currently serving as the

Treasurer of the Temple University Belly Dancing club. Dashaunta is a member of the Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society. She also has a great deal of experience working with children and the community because of her affiliation with the Education Work AmeriCorps and the BMV Middle School, among her various other jobs. After graduation Dashaunta plans to work in the inner city as a Social Worker while completing her Master’s degree.

Lyda Kong was born in Cambodia, moved to the United States five years ago and is trilingual in Khmer (a Cambodia dialect), English, and Mandarin Chinese. A rising

junior with a major in International Business Administration and minor in Management Information System, Lyda has received many honors and awards such as the World Language Honor from the School District of Philadelphia. Recently, she began volunteering at the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) where she helps individuals prepare and file their basic income tax return. Lyda will be taking on the role of an Academic Coach this year as well. A participant in the Student Interfaith Initiative Lyda would like to start her own nonprofit organization after attending graduate school and earning a Master degree in International Business.

Lynn Hieu is a rising senior majoring in Neuroscience: Systems, Behavior and Plasticity. She is an active member of the ACT101 Association, the McNair Scholars Program and an inductee of the XAE Honors

Society. Lynn is also in the MARC (Minority Access to Research Careers) Scholars program, in order to start preparing herself for graduate school. In her MARC experience, Lynn was able to conduct research with Dr. Jacqueline Tanaka studying how the mutation of certain genes can lead to complete loss of cone function in canine models. The research was presented at the ABRCMS (Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students) in San Jose, California this past November, 2012. After graduation, Lynn would like to dedicate herself to research on neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Dementia.


Romer Acosta López was born in Santo Domingo, in the Dominican Republic. He is a native Spanish speaker and lived in the Dominican Republic for twelve years. He

has been living in Philadelphia since 2010. Romer is currently a rising sophomore with a major in Management Information System and a minor in Human Resources Management. He is an Ambassador for the Russell Conwell Learning Center, as well as an intern for the Achieving Professional Excellence (APEx) program within the Russell Conwell Learning Center. Romer will be working as an Academic Coach for the 2013-2014 school year. This summer, Romer is a classroom assistant for the 2013 Summer Bridge Program. He was awarded the “Outstanding Intern” of the year. Romer would like to work for a company such as Wal-Mart, Rite Aid, or CVS, as an IT Manager after he graduates.

Jameda Lemar is a junior psychology major. As a freshman, Jameda immediately began her work as a research assistant and co-authored a paper entitled “ Psychological Adjustment and Academic Achievement in Adolescent”.

She then presented this paper at the Lehigh Valley Psychological Association’s 10th annual Fall colloquium. She is currently working in two different labs with Drs. Larry Steinberg and Jason Chein. Jameda would like to continue her work in the field and attain a PhD in Psychology in order to make a difference in the lives of others.

D’Juan Lyons is a graduating senior majoring in Spanish Linguistics and is fluent in Spanish and can converse in Italian. He serves as a Writing and Spanish tutor at the RCC and would like to pursue

a career as an interpreter and language professor. D’Juan was a recipient of the Diamond Ambassadors Scholarship and had the opportunity to travel to the Dominican Republic and conduct research as a Ronald E. McNair Scholar. This program is for students that are looking to prepare for their Ph.D. D’ Juan was also the recepient of the W.W. Smith Senior prize, and the 2013 Diamond Award, Temple’s highest recognition for an undergraduate student. D’Juan also works as a Diamond Peer Teacher for Spanish 1003 and continuously makes Dean’s List with a 3.7 GPA. This year, D’Juan was selected to present a speech during the May Commencement ceremonies.He will be pursuing his Ph.D at the University of Maryland College Park.

Samantha McNulty is a native of Northeast Philadelphia and graduated from MaST Community Charter. Currently she is studying Environmental Studies and Geography and Urban Studies.

Samantha is an English tutor at the RCC, a member of Delta Phi Epsilon and Vice President of all Panhellenic sororities. She was selected from Temple’s Greek Community to attend the Northeast Greek Leaders Association conference this past February. Samantha has been participating in WAVE (Wonderful, Adolescent, Ventilator, Excursion) for Voorhees Pediatric Hospital since 7th grade, a program she greatly enjoys. In order to make a difference in the world, Samantha would eventually like to get a Masters in Environmental Studies, and go to Law School for Environmental Law.


Lena Powell is a rising sophomore with a double major in Geography and Urban Studies and Spanish. She is a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, a tutor for

the health-care non-profit Puentes de Salud and works for the admissions department as a S.M.A.R.T. Owl Ambassador. She interned at the Earth Force Summer of Service, helping with three environmental summer programs and is a member of Temple’s Geography and Urban Studies Student Association. Lena was part of the LASS program, and lived with a host family to experience everyday life in Costa Rica. Working as an Academic Coach has allowed Lena to help other students make the transition to college. While Lena does not know exactly what she would like to do after graduation, she would love to go into the field of service, like the Peace Corps, and gain additional field experience before going to graduate school.

Jamia Pugh is a rising junior and Media Studies and Production major, with a certificate in the specialization in Spanish. Jamia has already completed two internships; one with Temple’s Student

Radio Station W.H.I.P. and another as a promotions intern at WIFIAM1460.com. She is also a proud member of the Black Student Union, the Main Campus Program Board and the Ladies of Elegance Step Team. Jamia would like to pursue either radio, or television as a full-time career.

Marco Sifoni is a rising senior with a major in Sport and Recreation Management. Marco has been the manager of the Temple University Men’s Basketball team since 2012. He is also a dedicated member of both the Sport

and Recreation Professionals Association and the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management Association. Marco recently volunteered at Vogt Recreation Center, a local playground, and the Carousel House for an event called RecFest, which offers different activities for the disabled community. Marco has been an active member of the Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society since 2011 and the Golden Key International Honor Society since 2012 and received Academic Achievement Awards for the fall and spring semesters of his freshman year.

Alexis Rylander is a rising senior majoring in biology. She is a recipient of the W.W. Smith Scholarship and a 2012 inductee into the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honors Society and a Resident Assistant at Hardwick Hall.

Alexis is a participant in the the Minority Access to Research Careers(MARC) Scholars Program. As a member of MARC, Alexis conducted research with Dr. Peter I. Lelkes on the Molecular Characterization of Embryonic Stem Cells that was presented in San Jose during the ABRCMS (Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students) . Outside of Temple, Alexis is a volunteer for the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra. Thanks to the RCC, Alexis has volunteer and research experience that will be essential for her success in graduate school.


Xiao Yang is originally from Brooklyn, New York, but graduated from Samuel S. High School in Philadelphia. Xiao is a junior majoring in Finance and minoring in Management Information System

and participates in two Fox School professional student organizations: ASCEND and Financial Management Association. Through these groups Xiao has been able to volunteer her time to many worthy causes, including the organization and overseeing, of the Fall 2012 Red Cross Blood drive that included 76 volunteers and over 150 donors. She is also a member of numerous honor societies including The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, the Golden Key International Honour Society, the Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society, a Wellgates International Distinguished Scholar and a recipient of W.W. Smith Charitable Trust Scholarship. Xiao was the preceptor in the PDW internship. Xiao plans on graduating in May 2014 and working for an investment firm before obtaining an MBA.

Rondaya Woodbury has felt strongly about community service and helping others since a very young age. She started working with the Red Cross in middle school and has been volunteering in retirement homes, daycares

and cleaning up parks since her youth. She is now currently a senior studying Secondary Education and English. Her awards since entering Temple include the Joseph P. Goodwin scholarship, membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society for Education. She helps tutor high school students at the school she works for and serves as the Vice President of Operations in Temple University’s Asian Student Association. Rondaya would like to teach and inspire her future students to succeed in all of their endeavors.

Jasica Truong is a rising junior on the Pre-Pharmacy track with a major in Chemistry. She is a member of the Temple University Chemical Society and the Pre-Pharmacy Association, as well as mentee in the College of Science and

Technology Alumni Mentoring Program. Jasica has also received many awards for her academic and leadership qualities including induction into the Alpha Epsilon Delta Honor Society, the Gold Leadership Certificate from the RCC, the W.W. Smith Charitable Trust Scholarship and 2nd place in the Professional Development Program’s Portfolio competition. Jasica has also had the opportunity to visit and take a tour of Merck Pharmacy’s Chemistry and Biology labs. She joined the ranks of the Russell Conwell Center’s Summa Cum Laude Club in 2012.

Rovina Simon was born in Brooklyn, New York and grew up in Long Island, New York. She is enrolled in the College of Health Professions and Social Work studying Kinesiology.

She attends the Newman Center, which is a Catholic Church, located on Temple’s campus and currently volunteers with Urban Blazers at Kipp Philadelphia Charter School. Urban Blazers is a service learning organization that promotes character development in its students. Rovina is on the E-board for Nsoromma, a new West African dance and drumming group as well as part of the Haitian Students Organization, and the Exercise Science Association. She plans on attending graduate school for either physical or occupational therapy and hopes to one-day work with either children or athletes. Rovina will be one of the new Academic Coaches in 2013-2014.


Justin Kinney, Marketing - FallGeorge Koshy, Biology BS - Fall

Elizabeth Laov, Early Child-Elem Ed - Spring Moranda Lavasani, Strategic Comm. - Fall

Minh Le, Therapeutic Recreation - FallMarina Leong, Accounting - FallYee Luu, Public Health - Spring

Catherine Luu, Psychology - FallD’Juan Lyons, Spanish - Spring

Carolyn Mack, Public Health - SpringNiya Mack, Public Health - Fall, Spring

Joney Mai, HRM - SpringRoman Marchuk, Speech, Language Hearing

Science - FallKaitlyn Marfilius, Early Child-Elem Ed - Fall

Sharnell McCleary, Public Health - FallMolly McCourt, Pre-Pharmacy - Fall

Sheeba Memon, Inform. Scien. & Tech. - FallNina Miranda, Natural Sciences - Fall

Brittany Mooney, Speech, Language Hearing Science and Psychology - Fall, Spring

Megan Mulray, Tourism & Hospitality Mgmt - Fall, Spring

Amanda Murphy, Early Child Elem Ed -SpringTenee Nelson, Tourism & Hospitality Mgmt -

SpringKieu-Uyen Nguyen, Secondary Math Educ -

SpringVu Nguyen, Environmental Science - Spring

Paulene Niessen, Therapeutic Recreation - FallSylmarie Nunez-Luna, Marketing - Spring

Evangelia Ofidis, Chemistry - FallShyam Patel, Finance - Fall

Megan Plescha, Advertising - Spring Aldo Profka, Biology BS - Fall, Spring

Rachel Quinn, Theater - FallJennifer Ramos, Marketing - Spring

John Lorenzo Rivera, Undeclared -Fall,SpringLynette Rodriguez, Tyler School of Art - Fall

Danielle Rosati, Journalism - FallMichael Samarco, Elec. Engineering - Spring

Noel Scales, BTMM- SpringDominique Scaltrito, Business Mgmt. - Fall

Lauren Selden, Asian Studies - FallBethanie Sessoms, Tourism & Hospitality

Mgmt - FallPatricia Smith, Public Health - Spring

Taylor Smith, Law - Spring

Dilnoza Ahrorova, Kinesiology - Fall, SpringShannon Abraham, Advertising - Fall

Shahriar Absar, Accounting - FallIbtihal Al-Froukh, Undeclared - FallAnthony Audia, Kinesiology - SpringKarimata Bah, Public Health - Fall

Inna Barasyuk, Legal Studies - SpringChristopher Barmore, Mathematics - Spring

Amber Barr, Undeclared - FallJuwan Bennett, Criminal Justice - Fall, Spring

Diana Brody, BTMM - Fall, SpringStephen Brydzinski, Advertising - Fall, Spring

Peter Caban, Biology BS - SpringJudith Casanova, Film and Media Arts - FallKristen Ceriale, Philos. & MSP - Fall, Spring

Danny Choummanyvong, Mech. Eng. - SpringAngelica Colon del Jesus, Psychology - Fall

Timmer Dass, Accounting - FallCedric Destin, Elec. Engineering - Fall, Spring

Enea Dhimitri, Criminal Justice - SpringJacqueline Donohue, Psychology - Fall

Heba Elabed, Psychology - SpringRichard Fogel, BTMM - Fall

Melanie Gampon, Public Health - FallSaye Gongloe, Engineering - Fall

Deanna Gormisky, Advertising - FallAnthony Greco, FMA- Fall, Spring

Kayla Gregg, Criminal Justice - SpringSaurav Guru, Elec. Engineering - Fall, Spring

Kelly Ha, Undeclared - SpringMariam Haj, Engineering Technology - Fall

Emily Hart, History - SpringShannon Haugh, BTMM - Fall, Spring

Jalissa Hernandez, Public Health - Fall, SpringStephanie Hernandez, Criminal Justice - Fall

Christina Howarth, Early Child,Elem Ed - FallLingxi Huang, Biology BS - Spring

Yingying Huang, Undeclared - Fall, SpringEmanuel Izilov, International Business - Fall

Aleksaida James, Communications - FallChante Jennings, Marketing - Fall

Jaslyn Johnson, Neuroscience and Bio. - Fall, Spring

Jessica Jones, Marketing - SpringVatche Kaprielian, Info. Science & Tech. - FallAndrew Kim, Mechanical Engineering - Spring

Allyson Brown, Early Child-Elem Ed - Spring

Angelica Colon del Jesus, Psychology - Spring

Evan Demianczyk, Secondary Eng. Ed. - Fall

Jacqueline Donohue, Psychology - Spring

Catherine Duffield, Sec. World Lang. Ed - Fall

Brittany Guarniere, Elem Ed- Spring

Ivy Guinto, Psychology - Spring

Joyce Hackett, Speech, Lang., Hearing Science - Fall, Spring

Shara Howard, Journalism - Spring

Vatche Kaprielian, Inf. Scien & Tech. - Spring

Kaitlyn Marfilius, Early Child-Elementary Ed -Spring

Lyudmila Migachev, Elem Ed - Spring

Jennifer Ngo, Environmental Science - Spring

Paulene Niessen, Therapeutic Recreation - Spring

Lynette Rodriguez, Tyler School of Art - Spring

Ashley Snyder, Criminal Justice - Fall, Spring

Lytia Solomon, Criminal Justice - Spring

James Tang, HRM - Fall

Andrew Taylor, Composition - Spring

Mina Youssef, Psychology - Fall

Ashley Snyder, Criminal Justice - FallJulia Stief, Tourism & Hospitality Mgmt - Fall

Xinyi Tan, International Business - FallJames Tang, HRM - Spring

Alex Tran, Accounting - SpringSokharat Um, Engineering - Fall, SpringThuy Vuong, Undeclared - Fall, Spring

Erik Waldman, FMA - Fall, Spring Jazmine Washington, Advertising - Spring

Marissa Williams, Psychology - SpringBrian Wilson, BTMM - Spring

Savannah Wilson, MSP - SpringTyneisha Wimbush, Public Health - Fall

Wajiha Yassin, Marketing - SpringMina Youssef, Psychology - SpringXiao Zheng, Accounting - Spring

RCC Students on the Fall 2012 and Spring 2013 Dean’s List

Students with a Perfect 4.0 GPA!


With the support of Temple University, the

Russell Conwell Center (RCC) created the Emerging Scholars Program, a new retention program to support incoming undergraduate students. The Emerging Scholars Program provides talented high school students who demonstrated academic promise with admission to Temple University. Students in the Emerging Scholars Program are not required to attend the Summer Bridge Program; they enrolled directly into the fall semester and received academic services throughout their freshmen year. Though talented, the Emerging Scholars also demonstrate the need for academic support. As such, the program services were developed to ameliorate their academic challenges and prepare them for University success. The Emerging Scholars Program provides participants with a scholarly and supportive educational and social community to facilitate their goal of a timely graduation and a quality Temple experience.

The initial class of Emerging Scholars consisted of 67 students who were welcomed into the program through a series of summer activities designed to connect the students to the program and to one another. These community building activities enabled the Emerging Scholars to gain an early and in-depth understanding of Temple resources and facilities, while providing a “jump-start” to the expectations and

The First Year in Review of the Emerging Scholars ProgramA New Retention Initiative

Students in the program took advantage of numerous resources designed to assist them in meeting their academic and career goals.

Among the support services were: • Academic Learning Specialist

• Undergraduate Academic Coaches

• Free printing in the RCC labs

• RCC laptop loan program

• Emerging Scholars Scholarship Program

• Professional Internship Program

• Technology Certification Series

• Excel in Math Workshop Series

• RCC tutors and Study Groups

• and much more

demands of college. Through ongoing activities and events during the academic year, the Emerging Scholars are thoroughly acclimated into the Temple culture. This has led to a high rate of retention and grade point average attainment. At the end of the first year, the average cumulative GPA of the Emerging Scholars is a 2.81 with 40% at a 3.0 or higher.

While all of the services

have proven essential to the program, one of the paramount services is the support and guidance of RCC Academic Coaches. A group of talented undergraduate students were selected and trained to serve as Academic Coaches to the incoming class (you may see their profiles on the RCC webpage at www.temple/rcc). The Academic Coaches assisted the participants in

transitioning to a scholarly mindset and developing the skill set required for academic success.

Academic Coaches taught and mentored students in collegiate time management, study skills, note taking, test taking, and university resources and culture. One of the most profound areas in which the Coaches impacted student acclimation has been providing accessibility and understanding of how a successful student operates. Moreover, their ability to understand and identify with the challenges that incoming freshmen encountered allowed them to alleviate many of the stressors the Emerging Scholars experienced. Equally important was the programmatic efforts to increase student engagement and connection with the program and the University. The Academic Coaches sponsored community building events culminating in a Multicultural Talent Show on April 26th in the Student Center. Various student organizations (Ladies of Elegance Step Team, Temple University Belly Dances, Accapella, Tap etc.) demonstrated their talents and culture celebrating both the end of the academic year and the diversity that comprises Temple University.

We are excited to serve the Emerging Scholars and look forward to their future successes and the addition of the fall ‘13 incoming class.


Academic Coaches assisting Emerging Scholars as they study.


Spotlight: Christina Cintron

Christina Cintron is one of the many Russell Conwell Center students who have set their eyes on a specific goal and are

working towards achieving it. Initially unsure of what she wanted to pursue, Christina took elective courses in Criminal Justice – instantly she fell in love. With a fierce interest in Psychology, Christina decided to major in Criminal Justice and minor in Psychology. A Philadelphia native, Christina set her sights on working in law enforcement through the ProRanger program.

The ProRanger program is a highly competitive, paid internship program that is administered by the National Park Service and Temple University. According to the ProRanger Philadelphia website, “The program was established to recruit, train and employ law enforcement park rangers for the National Park Service. Upon graduating from Temple University and successfully completing the ProRanger Philadelphia program, participants are placed in a permanent career tenure law enforcement park ranger position with the National Park Service.” Students in this program undergo training and academic courses that accompany the internship before becoming a ProRanger.

We sat down with Christina to find out what her experience has been like and what her future plans are.

Why did you choose the ProRanger program?

I was in class with a friend of mine and I didn’t know anything about ProRanger or National Park Service because I’m a girl from the city. There was a presentation and after class our professor called us to the side – we thought we were in trouble – and basically recruited us to be apart of the program. It sounded like a great opportunity and I didn’t really know what I wanted to do after graduation so I joined the program. By September I will have my official placement.

Since you were recruited, did you have to fill out a particular application? What was the application process like?

I had to file an application and do an initial fitness test. Then, I interned at Sandy Hook Recreational Park in New Jersey – I loved it there. I have another fitness test I am currently preparing for. The fitness test is an arduous process that includes an agility run,

a 1.5 mile run, a maximum bench press and a sit and reach which tests your flexibility. I usually prepare by going to the gym, or to Yoga, but I’m no gym rat.

What are the steps that lead to your official placement?

First I completed the academy, then completed the certificate program. I chose to postpone my graduation to May 2013 because I wanted to complete the certificate program. Since I’ve completed it, I’m now in a period of “non-competitive status” which means

I’m at the top of the list for job placement. I don’t have a preference of where I end up so long as it’s near

some type of civilization. I grew up in the city and don’t want to be too far from one. I’d love to be at a park where there’s recreational activities, I don’t want to be at a historical park – I’m worried I’d get bored. I don’t want to feel like a mall cop.

What would your average day as a Park Ranger look like?

We’re law enforcement so we enforce the rules of the park. Depending on the park, I can have EMS duties, work with animals – we do it all.

How do you get involved with the ProRange program?

They’re not in the process of hiring a cohort just yet but you have

to look out for when they are in the process of recruiting. Usually through the Career Fairs and presentations at classes so keep your eyes open!

What are your future plans within the field of Criminal Justice?

ProRanger is definitely a stepping stone. I’m not sure if I’ll move up within the program or move onto something else in the future but I’m excited to start.

What’s your advice for students who are unsure of what they want to pursue?

I didn’t pick my major until the end of my sophomore year and I feel like during your freshman year you should take a variety of classes, talk to professors and counselors, research different majors and programs at Temple, use the Career Center – don’t stress it! Explore all of the programs and find what fits you.

-Alexandra Olivier, Editorial Intern

Staying Fit and Preparing to Save Lives- All in a Day’s Work

diamond mind - spring 2013

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