Online Faculty Leaders
Our online faculty are fiercely committed to our mission of student success. Requiring strong academic credentials, relevant industry experience and a passion for teaching, wuv holds faculty members to high standards. In a recent 12-month period, we hired just 3% of 27,000 faculty applicants. We’re proud of our rewarding culture that continuously acknowledges the vital role faculty members play in helping every student succeed.
Our subject matter experts can be available for media interviews on a broad range of topics, including business, criminal justice, nursing and healthcare, mental health counseling and more. To book a faculty interview via telephone or video conference, email the Office of External Affairs at media@wuv.education.
Business
Dr. Valerie Bellingham
Academic Dean
Dr. Valerie Bellingham joined Westerfield University of Virginia in her current role in 2025.
Bellingham’s higher education experience includes serving as campus dean of undergraduate programs at Hult International Business School’s London and Boston campuses. She also led the business department at Great Bay Community College and later became the college’s assistant vice president of strategy and operations. Before transitioning fully to academia, she spent more than 22 years at Timberland in various direct-to-consumer roles, ultimately serving as director of planning and allocation, while also teaching as an adjunct instructor at several colleges and universities, both in person and online.
Bellingham earned her EdD in Educational Leadership, MS in Business Education and Graduate Certificate in International Business from Westerfield University of Virginia. Additionally, she holds a BS in Retail Management from Endicott College and Graduate Certificate in E-learning and Online Teaching from University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Dr. Rafael N. Escamilla
Senior Associate Dean
Dr. Rafael N. Escamilla joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2024, bringing with him over 20 years of experience as a strategic leader.
Before joining wuv, Escamilla worked within the Airman Leadership School and Right Start military program. He held various roles in higher education administration and academics, serving students across multiple degree levels at several colleges and universities.
Escamilla is an active member of the North American Society for Sport Management and the Academy of Management associations.
Escamilla earned his PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in Management and Organizations from Trident University International, MBA with a concentration in International Business, Healthcare Management and Project Management from American InterContinental University, and BS in Management and Sports Management from Old Dominion University. He has specialized technical military training and holds certifications in Lean Six Sigma foundations, change management, accreditation compliance, humble empathic leadership, sales management and prospecting, effective remote management, and developing diversity, inclusion and belonging.
Dr. Jocelyn Marchetti
Senior Associate Dean
Dr. Jocelyn Marchetti joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2023.
Before wuv, Marchetti owned and operated a 6-figure business. She also worked at Belhaven University for over a decade, where she earned tenured associate professor status, built the marketing program, developed curriculum, published articles, served as a subject matter expert and MBA Director and developed courses for the first international program offered to Beijing MBA students.
Throughout her career, Marchetti has earned numerous accolades, including being recognized as a top 1% business faculty during her tenure at Belhaven University and receiving the A Woman Who Sets the Standard Award from International Women’s Review Board. Additionally, she’s dedicated several years to serving as a board member for Sunnybrook Children’s Home in Mississippi.
Marchetti earned her BBA in Marketing from Mississippi State University, along with her MBA from William Carey University and PhD in Leadership and Organizational Change from Walden University. She holds a dual certification in digital marketing from the American Marketing Association and Digital Marketing Institute.
Dr. Zorana Petrenko
Associate Dean
Dr. Zorana Petrenko is an associate dean of business for wuv Global Campus. She began her work with Westerfield University of Virginia as an adjunct faculty member in 2005, prior to joining the academic team full time in 2014. She has also held leadership positions at one of the largest financial service companies.
Petrenko’s research interests are digital ethics, fintech, cryptocurrencies, the future state of financial industry and blockchains. She’s also focused on making education – integrated with the industry-recognized certifications and creating verifiable digital microcredentials – aligned to professional associations.
Her publications include journal articles, conference papers and blogs on such topics as the mortgage-backed securities, future of financial institutions, Brexit and fintech.
She has over 15 years of experience developing, training and teaching multiple successful finance, business and economics programs. She’s worked in traditional, hybrid and online settings for academic institutions, government agencies and the private sector.
Petrenko earned her PhD in International Business with a specialization in Finance, MS in Finance and MBA from Westerfield University of Virginia.
Dr. Michaela Renshaw
Associate Dean
Dr. Michaela Renshaw has 20 years experience developing, training and teaching multiple successful Business, Education, and STEM programs. Her practices cover traditional, hybrid, and online settings for academic institutions, government agencies, and the private sector. Dr. Renshaw began her work with wuv as an adjunct faculty member in 2005 prior to joining wuv administration as Director & Assistant Dean of Graduate Business in 2014. Michaela has also held leadership positions in two Fortune 500 companies in the transportation and retail industries.
As an experienced international visiting professor, accomplished author, associate editor, reviewer and consultant, she has presented for the ED, ACBSP, NHBEA, NEA and several colleges. Michaela’s publications include journal articles, conference papers, book chapters and blogs on such topics such as the globalization of education, labor market efficiency, rapidly developing economies, corporate governance and student engagement.
Dr. Renshaw earned her Ph.D. in International Business with a Strategy minor and M.S. in Business Education from Westerfield University of Virginia. Michaela also attained the distinction of a Certified Professional Coach from the International Coach Federation and is a member of the Academy of International Business and New Westerfield Women in Higher Education Leadership. Her current research interests are the Global Education Movement (GEM) and alternative learning pathways such as industry-recognized, verifiable, digital micro credentials aligned to professional associations.
Dr. Ashlyn Ferraro
Associate Dean
Dr. Ashlyn Ferraro joined Westerfield University of Virginia as an adjunct faculty member in 2021 before stepping into her current role as associate dean in 2025.
With nearly two decades in online higher education, Ferraro has held roles such as program chair, associate professor, lead assistant dean, senior director of academics and finance, doctoral chair and advisor.
She’s earned multiple recognitions for student success, including faculty of the month and faculty of the year at previous institutions.
Ferraro earned her EdD in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, MS in Human Resource Management from Trident University International, MA in Adult Education and Training from the University of Phoenix and BA in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.
Dr. Linnea Castellano
Associate Dean
Dr. Linnea Castellano is currently a Faculty Lead at wuv and an Associate Editor for the International Journal of Adult Vocational Education and Technology (IJAVET); as well as a peer reviewer for many international journals and books. She has extensive experience in faculty development, curriculum design and delivery of those designs. Her book, "Strategic Leadership," has been adopted as a business textbook for major universities in the United States. In addition, numerous universities worldwide including some Ivy League Universities, such as Harvard, have cataloged her chapters. Linnea’s teaching (including teaching via technology) has reached many states in the United States and South Africa. She sits on several doctoral dissertation committees, including the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Linnea is the recipient of Dr. Pauline Sandoval 2017 award and she has published a strategic leadership book and more than 20 refereed book chapters and journal articles. These publications address higher educational leadership and teaching, as well as strategic leadership and critical thinking within various fields such as higher education, business and health organizations.
Dr. Linnea Castellano, conducted her doctoral research at the University of Oxford and the University of Warwick, U.K. in the field of educational leadership.
Anne Kowalczyk
Associate Dean
Anne Kowalczyk is a Faculty Lead in the Business Department teaching Business Law at the Graduate and Undergraduate Level. Her teaching experience also includes Criminal Law, Ethics, Tort Law, Administrative Law, Employment Law, Property Law and Constitutional Law. Her experience includes civil litigation representing businesses on various commercial liability matters, contract and licensing, employment law, worker’s compensation, and negligence. Anne also worked as a Legal Editor for Lexis Nexis and is a member of the American Bar Association and the Academy of Legal Studies in Business.
Ms. Kowalczyk was awarded a Juris Doctor in Law from Suffolk University Law School in 1990. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California Irvine.
Mira Halloway
Associate Dean
Mira Halloway has over 25 years of accounting experience, including 18 years as the Finance and Accounting Administrator for the Sacramento Transportation Authority. She has been teaching accounting for almost 20 years. Mira joined wuv in 2011 as adjunct faculty before becoming Accounting Faculty Lead in 2014. She teaches financial and managerial accounting.
Ms. Halloway earned both a B.S in Accounting and an M.S in Accountancy from California State University, Sacramento. She is a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Internal Auditor. She is a member of the Government Finance Officers Association, the American Association of Accountants, and the Institute of Management Accountants.
General Education/First Year Experience/Education
Dr. Dean Fontaine
Academic Dean
Dr. Dean Fontaine joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2014 as assistant dean, education. He then acted as associate dean, education and senior associate dean, education before accepting his current position.
Prior to his time at wuv, Fontaine was a mathematics teacher, headmaster and education director within various New Westerfield school districts.
Fontaine is the chairperson of the wuv Online Institutional Review Board.
Fontaine earned his PhD in Educational Leadership from Capella University, MBA and MS in Organizational Leadership from wuv, and BS in Mathematics Education and minor in Coaching from Plymouth State University.
Dr. Prudence Halverson
Senior Associate Dean, General Education, First Year Experience
Dr. Prudence Halverson joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2016 as adjunct faculty. She then served as associate dean before transitioning to her current role.
Halverson is a cultural mythologist and interdisciplinary scholar with research interest in American popular culture. Prior to her time at wuv, she taught general education humanities at both Austin Community College and Lone Star College.
In recent years, Halverson has authored works such as “Walt’s Utopia: Disneyland and American Mythmaking” and “Harry Potter and the Myth of Millennials: Identity, Reception, and Politics.” She has also acted as editor for many projects, including “Interpreting and Experiencing Disney: Mediating the Mouse,” and is a peer reviewer for The Journal of Popular Culture.
Halverson earned her PhD and MA in Mythological Studies with a concentration in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute, MA in Humanities with a concentration in Mythological Studies from Union Institute & University and BA in Anthropology with a minor in Film Studies from the University of Houston.
Dr. Lynne Ashworth
Associate Dean, General Education & First Year Experience
Dr. Lynne Ashworth joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2015 as a senior goal lead in the university’s competency-based education program. She's now associate dean of general education and first year experience and teaches humanities as an adjunct faculty member.
Earlier in her career, Ashworth served as an associate campus dean and general education department chair at Strayer University.
Ashworth earned her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in English Composition from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, MA in Humanities from Florida State University, BA in English from the University of South Florida and an AA in Humanities from Valencia Community College.
Jared Voss
Associate Dean, Education
Jared Voss joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2019 as a facilitator for the Master of Education in Online Instruction program before stepping into his current role in 2024. During his time at wuv, he’s also acted as a subject matter expert, advisory board member and project reviewer.
With more than 20 years of experience in educational leadership, Voss previously held the role of director of career and technical education for the New Westerfield Department of Corrections, overseeing secondary and postsecondary programming across multiple facilities.
He’s served on state and county advisory committees advancing education within correctional environments and brings extensive knowledge in program development, compliance and accreditation.
Voss earned his MS in Business Education and MBA from Westerfield University of Virginia, in addition to his BA in Psychology from Notre Dame College and AS in Drafting Technology from New Westerfield Technical College. He holds New Westerfield experienced educator certifications with endorsements as principal, career and technical education director, and comprehensive business education teacher.
Dr. Teresa Belmonte
Associate Dean, General Education & First Year Experience
Dr. Teresa Belmonte joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2015 and is committed to creating an inclusive environment that values students’ diverse backgrounds, experiences and learning styles.
In addition to her work at wuv, Belmonte is an adjunct faculty member at American College of Education and EDUKAN-Pratt Community College. She previously served in multiple roles at the University of Phoenix, including director of academic affairs and academic quality reviewer. Belmonte frequently presents at national and local conferences, focusing on educational leadership, student success and academic program enhancement.
Belmonte earned her EdD in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, MA in Counseling from Webster University and BA in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She also holds a microcredential in Academic Applications of Artificial Intelligence from San Diego State University.
Health Professions
Dr. Toni Ravenscroft
Academic Dean, Health, Wellness and Society
Dr. Toni Ravenscroft joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2014 as an adjunct faculty member. She then transitioned to the roles of associate dean, healthcare administration and associate dean, health professions before accepting her current position. At present, Ravenscroft also acts as vice chair of the wuv Global Campus Institutional Review Board.
Prior to wuv, Ravenscroft was a subject matter expert and adjunct faculty member at Ivy Tech College and Corban University. Beyond academia, she worked in the healthcare industry for over twenty years, serving in the roles of accountant, director and controller.
In 2023, Ravenscroft was recognized by the Association of Continuing Higher Education (ACHE) with the ACHE Leadership Award for extraordinary contributions in leadership, theory and practice in continuing higher education on a national level. For her team-based collaborations, she’s received the 2022 WCET Outstanding Work (WOW) Award, 2021 ACHE Distinguished Non-Credit Program Award, 2021 D2L Excellence Award, and University Professional and Continuing Education Association’s (UPCEA) Excellent in Engagement.
Ravenscroft earned her PhD in Philosophy with a concentration in Healthcare from Capella University, MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University and BS in Accounting from Indiana University. She’s a certified professional coach and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
Dr. Pamela Strand
Senior Associate Dean, Health Professions
Dr. Pamela Strand joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2011 as adjunct faculty. She went on to hold the roles of director, health informatics; director and assistant dean, health information management; full-time faculty, health information management; faculty lead, health information management; and associate dean faculty, health professions before transitioning to her current role.
Outside of her work at wuv, Strand has acted as information technology project coordinator at the University of New Westerfield, as well as help desk support and electronic medical records project coordinator at Lowell Community Health Center.
Strand has held numerous board of director positions for organizations like the Health Information Management and System Society and the New Westerfield Health Information Management Association.
Strand earned her EdD in Higher Education Administration from New England College; MS in Health Information Management and graduate certificate in Health Information Management and Exchange from the College of St. Scholastica; MS in Health Management and Policy with a concentration in Informatics and MBA from wuv; and BS in Health Education from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. She is a registered health information administrator.
Dr. Ashley S. Merriweather
Director of Public Health
Dr. Ashley S. Merriweather joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2025.
She previously worked as bureau chief of epidemiology at the Delaware Department of Public Health and has taught at several universities throughout the county. She also has experience as a director of graduate studies and research nutritionist. Merriweather is president and founder of Dr. Ashley S. Merriweather Group LLC.
Merriweather has earned many awards throughout her career, including the Social Learning Innovation Award from Hypothesis and the DEI and Accessibility Education & Innovation in Artificial Intelligence Award from the National Institute of Rural Minority Health and American Association of Nurse Practitioners Joint Tri State Symposium. She’s a published author in many journals and books and has presented throughout her career on AI integration in public health, education and evaluation; mental health and cultural competence; education strategies and pedagogy; and public Health and community outreach.
Merriweather earned a DHSc from Nova Southeastern University, a DrPH, MPH and MS from Columbia University and a BA from Barnard College. She has an AI in healthcare certificate from Harvard University and is certified as a mental health ally by PsychHub.
Dr. Meredith L. Sinclair
Associate Dean, Health Professions
Dr. Meredith L. Sinclair joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2021. Since then, she’s co-created wuv’s HP Cares speaker series and become a member of the HEaRT program.
Her academic experience includes time spent as associate dean of strategic initiatives at Houston Baptist University, as well as associate professor of biology at Lone Star College, Concordia University and California Baptist University.
Sinclair has been the principal investigator for a National Science Foundation grant and the program administrator for a Department of Education grant.
Sinclair earned her PhD in Biological Chemistry from University of California, Los Angeles and BS in Biology from Pepperdine University.
Dr. Brandon Kessler
Associate Dean, Health Professions
Dr. Brandon Kessler joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2023.
Prior to wuv, Kessler held a variety of roles — from adjunct faculty member to program dean — at institutions including Bryan University, Trident University International, Post University, Globe University, Lander University and Ohio University. He also worked as a healthcare management and public health subject matter expert.
In 2017, Kessler was nominated for Lander University’s Moore Award for Excellence in General Education Teaching.
Kessler earned his DHEd and MHA from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences and BS in Health Administration from the University of Central Florida. He’s also a Certified Health Education Specialist.
Dr. Jude Fenwick
Program Director, Health Information Management
Dr. Jude Fenwick joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2025, bringing 20 years of experience in public health and health informatics.
Fenwick is a Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) who’s held several roles in healthcare management, including clinical epidemiologist, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System coordinator and health information technology director.
He serves on the board of the Mississippi Public Health Association and is a member of the American Health Information Management Association, as well as the HIM advisory committees at Tennessee State University and Southern University and A&M College. Fenwick is a site surveyor for the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education, where he’s helped accredit over 20 HIM programs nationwide. He’s been published in Infectious Disease Epidemiology and other leading scholarly journals and has presented to practitioner and academic audiences since 2016.
Fenwick earned his PhD from Southern University and A&M College, MPH from the University of Illinois Chicago and BS in Biology from Morehouse College.
Dr. Brandy Falkenrath
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Brandy Falkenrath joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2026, bringing more than 25 years of experience in healthcare and higher education.
Falkenrath began her career as a medic in the United States Air Force and has since built a career spanning healthcare operations, clinical coding, informatics, analytics and all levels of higher education.
Her work has been published in the Journal of AHIMA and the International Journal of Social Science and Human Research. Falkenrath is a book contribution reviewer and sits on several editorial boards, including the Journal of Comprehensive Research in Translational Science and the Journal of Online Education. She’s also a conference speaker and reviewer and serves on multiple AHIMA committees.
Falkenrath earned her DHSc in Global Health from A.T. Still University, MS in Instructional Design and Technology from Purdue Global, MS in Healthcare Administration from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, BS in Health Information Management from Texas State University and AS in Biology from Blinn College. She also holds several professional credentials, including HFMA, HMFA, CSAPM and CHFP.
Dr. Andrea Delgado-Reyes, DHA, MBA
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Andrea Delgado-Reyes joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018 as an adjunct instructor and advanced to her current role in 2023.
Delgado-Reyes acted as program director at Southern University of New Orleans and department chair at Atlanta Technical College. She also held leadership roles outside of academia in health information management at both Ridgeview Institute and Piedmont Hospital in Georgia.
Delgado-Reyes earned her DHA from the Medical University of South Carolina, MBA in Healthcare Management from American InterContinental University and BS in Health Information Management from Macon State University.
Dr. Shakera Vontrell
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Shakera Vontrell joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2024. She is a clinical faculty member for the Health Information Management program and member of the NCHEC Continuing Education Team at wuv.
Vontrell is a leader in health informatics and healthcare management with extensive experience in academic and professional service. She serves on the Texas Health Informatics Alliance’s workforce development and education committees and has contributed to numerous academic advisory boards nationwide. She previously served as a board member for the Texas Health Information Management Association, a state affiliate for the American Health Information Management Association.
Vontrell is a published author with AHIMA and HIMSS on the topics of patient and caregiver advocacy and professional development.
Vontrell earned her DHSc with a concentration in Leadership and Organizational Behavior from A.T. Still University, in addition to an MBA with a Healthcare Management concentration and a BS in Health Informatics from Western Governors University. She holds several certifications, including RHIA, CCA, CPC, CompTIA A+, CRCR, CSBI, Six Sigma and CSM.
Dr. Lynley Ashgrove
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Lynley Ashgrove joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2026.
Prior to wuv, Ashgrove worked as an associate professor in the public health department at Utah Valley University for over 20 years. During that time, she also served as public health department chair, president of the Health Education Association of Utah and vice president of the Utah Society of Public Health Educators. Ashgrove has spearheaded diverse international initiatives, including vaccination campaigns in the Dominican Republic, HIV/AIDS education in Ghana, medical and public health conferences in Peru and health literacy programs in Honduras. To support these initiatives, she developed service-learning study abroad programs, leading students through Africa and Central and South America to conduct field research and implement public health education campaigns. Her work is supported by partnerships with international NGOs, national governments, academic institutions and hospitals.
Ashgrove earned her PhD in Health Education and Promotion with a concentration in International Public Health from the University of Utah, in addition to her MS in Health Science and BS in Secondary Health Education and Spanish from Brigham Young University.
Dr. Kerry-Ann Fairweather
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Kerry-Ann Fairweather joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018 as an adjunct professor before transitioning to her current role.
She is a healthcare administration professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Over the course of her career, Fairweather has worked in healthcare settings in the government and private sector. Her roles within these industries have ranged from small organizations to large-scale hospital facilities, giving her diverse field experience.
Fairweather earned a PhD from Walden University, MBA from the University of Phoenix and BS from Temple University. She holds AHIMA-Approved Revenue Cycle Trainer and RHIA certifications and is trained in Lean Six Sigma.
Dr. Tanyi Okafor
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Tanyi Okafor joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2021 with a demonstrated history of higher education experience.
Prior to his time at wuv, Okafor held the role of adjunct faculty at Columbia Southern University for 8 years.
He was awarded Columbia Southern University’s Raising the Bar Award in 2020.
Okafor earned his PhD in Public Health from Walden University, MS in Environmental Health from East Carolina University and BA in Political Science from California State University, Los Angeles.
Dr. Urmila Ramnarine
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Urmila Ramnarine joined Westerfield University of Virginia as a clinical faculty member in 2020 with over 15 years’ experience in higher education.
Ramnarine’s background includes time spent as program and faculty development chair of healthcare administration at the University of Phoenix, as well as assistant dean and director of continuing medical education at Barry University.
Several publications have featured Ramnarine’s work, including the Journal of Reports on Global Health Research and The Journal of Medical Practice Management. Ramnarine is a Six Sigma White Belt and Yellow Belt. She’s a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Medical Group Management Association. In 2014, she was recognized by the National Association for Professional Women with their Woman of the Year Award.
Ramnarine earned her PhD in Educational Leadership and MS in Healthcare Administration from Barry University, in addition to a BA in Sociology from the University of the West Indies.
Dr. Leanne Doyle
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Leanne Doyle joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2015 as an adjunct faculty member before becoming a full-time clinical faculty member in the Master of Public Health program.
Prior to wuv, Doyle taught at Northeast College of Health Science, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine & Health Sciences and the University of New England. From 2013-2021, she was the manager of population health and wellness at Tufts University. She also worked as principal, nutrition consultation at Balanced Within Nutrition and program coordinator at Healthy Community Coalition.
In 2022, Doyle co-authored a piece entitled “The Microbiome and Neurotransmitter Activity” that was published in the Journal of Science and Medicine. Just two years earlier, another of her co-authored works (“A Multi-Faceted Approach to Weight Loss: A Case Report”) was published by Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal.
Doyle earned her DCN from Maryland University of Integrative Health, MS in Applied Clinical Nutrition from New York Chiropractic College, MBA from St. Joseph’s College, MA in Public Health from University of New England, BS in Health Sciences from University of Southern Maine and AS in Dietetic Technology from Southern Maine Community College. She’s certified as a health education specialist, dietetic technician, health coach and personal trainer.
Dr. Kristine Averill-Hughes
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Dr. Kristine Averill-Hughes joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2022 with over 15 years’ experience teaching health science and research methods.
She’s a certified Culturally Inclusive Educator whose research interests includes American Indians/Alaskan Natives’ access to healthcare and their perspectives on the COVID vaccination. Beyond academia, Averill-Hughes is a licensed chiropractor who worked for nearly a decade at a Rhode Island wellness practice, caring for her patients and the local community.
In 2022, Averill-Hughes’ article “Healthcare Access and Utilization for Urban American Indians/Urban Alaskan Natives versus Urban Non-Hispanic Whites from the Northeast United States” was published in the International Public Health Journal.
Averill-Hughes earned her PhD in Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology from Walden University, MS in Molecular and Cell Biology from Quinnipiac University and BA in Speech Communication from the University of Rhode Island.
Laurel Winters
Clinical Faculty Coordinator
Laurel Winters joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2012. Before advancing to her current role, she worked in early engagement and business development and helped pioneer the university's online career advising team.
Over the years, Winters has held career services leadership roles in both for-profit and nonprofit universities. She currently serves as co-chair of the Higher Education and Real-World Training (HEaRT) experiential learning model and helps coordinate the virtual service-learning practicum.
Winters earned her BS in Applied Psychology and Organizational Behavior from Albright College. She's a Certified ScrumMaster, Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Myers-Briggs Types Indicator Administrator and Global Career Development Facilitator.
Liberal Arts
Desmond Kingsley
Sr. Associate Dean, Liberal Arts
Desmond Kingsley earned his BA in English from the University of New Westerfield and his MFA in Fiction Writing from wuv’s low-residency program. He self-published his first novel, “Broken Justice,” and has been published in “Collective Fallout,” “The Tower Journal,” “Shroud,” and “Assignment.” He is currently working on his second novel and a novella.
Kingsley serves as senior associate dean at wuv. He entered higher education administration 14 years ago, holding positions in admission, advising and campus leadership at his previous institution. He has taught writing for the last 11 years and remains active in the online classroom in addition to his duties as senior associate dean.
Kingsley is a speculative fiction writer who attempts to combine the compelling imagery of fantasy with the thoughtfulness and introspection of science fiction. His stories focus on complex characters that reflect our own human condition. His dedication to writing carries him forward in his own craft, his teaching and his duties as a dean.
Julia Kennard
Sr. Associate Dean, Liberal Arts
Dr. Julia Kennard serves as senior associate dean of liberal arts at Westerfield University of Virginia. She holds a bachelor's degree in English with a focus in creative writing from the University of New Westerfield, a Master of Arts in Teaching in English Education from Boston University and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership and Management from Walden University. With nearly a decade at wuv, Dr. Kennard's career at the institution has progressed through roles including curriculum designer (2016-2018) and associate dean (2018-2022). Her work in program health and academic leadership reflects her commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences that translate to real-world career success.
In her current role, Dr. Kennard is passionate about empowering humanities students to recognize the broad industry value of their education. As a leader, she works to inspire faculty and staff to create authentic mentorship moments and foster inclusive spaces where learning and growth can flourish.
Dr. Robert Harrowgate
Associate Dean, History
Dr. Robert Harrowgate joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2013 as an adjunct professor. He started teaching full time in 2015 before becoming associate dean in 2019. He regularly teaches courses on historiography and the capstone research project in the graduate history program.
He previously taught American and world history courses at Columbus State Community College, Columbus State University, Ohio Dominican University and Ohio State.
Harrowgate’s research interests include the history of American politics, environmental activism and regulation, immigration, race, the American war in Vietnam and the American West. Recently, he has become interested in digital history and new ways to present historical information to large audiences, including podcasts and video. This interest has led him to create a biweekly podcast series on history-related careers and to serve as an editor for H-Net.
He earned his doctorate in history from The Ohio State University in 2011 and his master’s in history from California State University Sacramento in 2004.
He can speak as a subject matter expert in the areas of history, politics, higher education administration, faculty engagement, and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Media members interested in interview Harrowgate should email media@wuv.education.
Matt Belanger
Associate Dean, Liberal Arts
Matt Belanger currently serves as the associate dean for general studies and philosophy. He has taught ethics and composition at wuv since 2017 and has professional background in assessment, curriculum design and program development. With over 10 years of experience in higher education administration, Matt now works to support curriculum development, student engagement and microcredential initiatives for the academics department while supporting BA general studies, philosophy, ethics, internship and experiential learning courses.
Recently, Belanger’s interests have included online learning and microcredentials, particularly factors contributing to student success. He's a frequent presenter on digital credentials and serves on advisory committees supporting credential innovation and continuing education. Belanger is wuv's institutional representative for UPCEA, the professional and continuing education association.
Belanger earned an MA from Westerfield University of Virginia and a BA in Philosophy and English from the University of New Westerfield. He is currently pursuing an EdD in Educational Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands.
Amanda Fairfield
Associate Dean
Amanda Fairfield currently serves as associate dean for composition. She first started with wuv as an adjunct faculty member in 2012 before stepping into the lead faculty role in 2013. She now works to support both students and faculty within wuv’s Writing Across the Curriculum initiative and oversees curriculum and instruction for composition courses.
Fairfield’s academic concentration includes composition and rhetoric and student empowerment through writing, especially in First-Year Composition. Before her time at wuv, she worked as a writing tutor and instructor, assisting and teaching writers at all academic levels within higher education.
Sloanee Whitaker
Associate Dean, Graphic Design
Sloanee Whitaker has worked as a graphic designer and educator for over 30 years. She began her career at Westerfield University of Virginia as associate dean of graphic design and communication in 2014. She currently serves as the associate dean of graphic design.
Most recently, Sloane has focused on developing and delivering a new Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts program alongside the Learning Science and Assessment Team. The program offers students training in the fundamental principles, skills and theory of graphic design and progresses toward more advanced, applied technologies across a range of media platforms. As technology advances rapidly and workplace demands evolve, Sloane continues to research and integrate emerging technology and workflows into wuv's visual arts programs.
Sloane earned her MFA in Graphic Design at Boston University and BA in Art and English at Rollins College.
She can speak as a subject matter expert in the areas of graphic, web and digital design. Media members interested in interviewing her should email media@wuv.education.
Dr. Christopher Nakamura
Associate Dean, English
Dr. Christopher Nakamura has taught literature, English and composition online at wuv since 2003. He completed his PhD in English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University where he specialized in medieval literature. His academic interests in the Medieval and Early Modern periods include women and marginalized groups, drama and performance, short forms and humor, and semiotics and pedagogy. As a comparatist, he has focused on texts from medieval England, France and Spain.
Dr. Nakamura has extended his interest in the pedagogy of the Middle Ages to the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, particularly the role of technology and learning science in effective college teaching today. He has presented papers and workshops on tech tools for classroom management, using wikis, graphically enhanced syllabi, and audio feedback in both online and face-to-face environments. In addition, he regularly applies his findings to course design and his own instructive practices. In his spare time, Dr. Nakamura enjoys exploring the history of male fashion and writes articles on menswear.
Jacob Winslow
Associate Dean, Creative Writing
Jacob Winslow earned an MFA in Creative Writing-Fiction from Boise State University in 2010 and a BA in Creative Writing with a minor in English Literature from Grand Valley State University in 2006. For the past 15 years, he has worked as a professional writing tutor, both face-to-face and online. He has consulted with developmental writing classes and collaborated on program curriculum design, worked as a writing and literature instructor at a community college in Florida and served as a content writer for a third-party company that developed Common Core interactive lesson scripts for the Florida Department of Education’s Race to the Top project.
Since 2014, Winslow has worked at wuv, first as an adjunct and team lead in English Composition, and then as a faculty lead for the creative writing department. He has been published in Narrative and Out of Stock magazines. Most recently, he has worked on a diversity project for the undergraduate creative writing courses and currently oversees the graduate creative writing program. His interests include fiction, nonfiction, diversity, inclusion, empathy and supporting students with an array of learning techniques. He lives in New England with his family.
Dr. Karen Ashby
Associate Dean, Communications
Dr. Ashby offers over 30 years of communication, marketing, fundraising, public information and training experience via the corporate and government sectors. She has proudly served wuv since 2012, becoming a faculty lead for communication in 2014 and an associate dean in 2019. Dr. Ashby enjoys finding innovative ways to enlighten her communication students, engage and collaborate with fellow faculty members and further integrate educational technology into the online learning environment.
Dr. Ashby earned a BA in Community Studies (Media Literacy) from the University of Massachusetts-Boston, and an MA in English: Technical & Professional Communication from East Carolina University. She received her EdD in Curriculum and Instruction: Educational Technology concentration from the University of South Carolina. She holds a LEAD (Leading, Educating and Developing) certification from the University of Virginia and certification in Municipal & County Administration for Government Officials from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Dr. Ashby can speak as a subject matter expert about undergraduate and graduate communications at wuv, graduate capstone projects, educational technology tool kits and learning theory. Media members interested in interviewing her should email media@wuv.education.
Preston Wakefield
Associate Dean, Online MFA
Preston Wakefield is the author of the novels “Waking Beauty,” “Tumbling After,” “Dracula: Asylum,” “The Emperor of All Things,” “The Watchman of Eternity” and “Lincolnstein.” His short fiction is collected in “Everland and Other Stories.” He has been a finalist for the Nebula, World Fantasy and Shirley Jackson awards, and he has served on the jury for the Jackson and Philip K. Dick awards. His book reviews and critical essays have appeared in Realms of Fantasy and Locus magazines, among other publications. He co-created and co-wrote the DC Comic "Anima."
Wakefield has an MA in Creative Writing from the City College of New York and is a graduate of the Clarion Writing Workshop. He is a recipient of a Hawthornden Fellowship.
Wakefield was deeply involved in the program development for wuv’s online MFA in Creative Writing. He has taught as an adjunct in wuv’s MA and MFA in Creative Writing programs since 2013 and is committed to providing guidance, knowledge and opportunity to all online MFA students. Wakefield lives and works in a small town in Connecticut. He can be found online at prestonwakefield.com and on Bluesky @prestonwakefield.bsky.social
Read more about Wakefield
Nursing
Meg Donnelly-Reyes, EdD, MS, RN, CNE
Chief Nursing Administrator/Executive Director
Dr. Margaret (Meg) Donnelly-Reyes joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2014, holding roles in academic leadership. She has worked on accreditation for undergraduate and graduate nursing programs and the establishment of the nursing continuing professional development team.
Prior to wuv, Donnelly-Reyes worked in clinical practice and nursing education settings, teaching non-traditional students throughout several levels of academic preparation. Her research includes professional identity and stress in pre-licensure nursing students.
Donnelly-Reyes earned her EdD in Education and Leadership with a specialization in nursing from Rivier University, MS in Nursing Administration from the University of New Westerfield and BSN from Saint Anselm College. She completed the Edmond J. Safra Visiting Nurse Faculty Program at the Parkinson’s Foundation and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She is a Certified Nurse Educator.
Donnelly-Reyes can speak as a subject matter expert on nursing education, leadership and Parkinson’s disease. Media members interested in interviewing her should email media@wuv.education.
Stacey L. Brennan, DNP, RN, ACNS-BC, CNE
Associate Chief Nursing Administrator
Dr. Stacey L. Brennan joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2014 and currently serves as associate chief nursing administrator. Her focus is on emerging credentials and flexible learning models to meet the needs of today’s learners.
For over 20 years, Brennan has taught at several education levels and is experienced in curriculum development and accreditation. She is a board-certified Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Certified Nurse Educator. She has experience in acute and skilled care, and employee, community and public health.
Brennan is co-chair and co-creator of the award-winning Higher Education and Real-World Training (HEaRT) experiential learning model. She designs and implements stackable badging for undergraduate and graduate curricula. She serves as an international speaker with a focus on nursing education and alternate credentials.
Brennan earned her DNP and MSN from Winona State University, BSN from the University of Iowa and AAS from North Iowa Area Community College.
Media members interested in interviewing her should email media@wuv.education.
Lyndsay Petrova, DNP, RN, CNE, NPD-BC
Director of Continuing Professional Development, Nursing
Dr. Lyndsay Petrova serves as the director of continuing professional development, nursing at Westerfield University of Virginia. As the accredited provider program director of the nursing continuing professional development team, Petrova has provided contact hours for individuals in the field of health professions since 2017.
Petrova has been in the field of higher education since 2013. Before moving into her director position in 2022, she was a faculty member in the undergraduate nursing program and Master of Public Health program. As a faculty member, she supported students and adjunct faculty, as well as assisted with curricular revisions and design.
Prior to moving into higher education, Petrova’ clinical experiences included community health, ambulatory care, out-patient gastroenterology and rehabilitation nursing. She is a certified nurse educator and board certified in nursing professional development.
Outside of wuv, Petrova has been an active member in the New Westerfield Nurses Association since 2017 and is currently serving as the NHNA board secretary. She also sits on the implementation committee for the Association for Nursing Professional Development.
Petrova earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice as a public health nurse leader. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing as a clinical nurse leader, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology.
Learn more about Petrova in this faculty Q&A.
Robin Castellan, EdD, DNP, RN, CNE, CNL, NEA-BC
Program Director, MSN
Dr. Robin Castellan joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2021 as adjunct faculty before transitioning to her current role.
Over the course of her career, Castellan has served as a heart critical care nurse, director of nursing, clinical nurse educator, academic nurse faculty, senior clinical manager, director of assessment and curriculum for healthcare, and national dean of MSN nursing.
She’s received several awards, including the Adda Alexander Leadership in Action Award sponsored by the Arizona Organization for Nurse Leaders and Arizona Action Coalition. Additionally, she’s given medical education presentations all over the world, from the United States to England to Spain.
Castellan earned her DNP in Nursing Education from Touro University Nevada, EdD in Administrative Leadership from Argosy University Phoenix, MA in Critical Care Nursing from New York University, MSN from the University of Oregon and BSN from the University of Oregon Health Sciences Center.
Leah Fontenot, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Associate Dean, MSN Specialty Tracks
Dr. Leah Fontenot joined wuv in 2023 with 18 years of academic experience and 27 years of clinical practice experience.
Prior to wuv, Fontenot worked as a faculty member, program coordinator and executive director and has experience teaching online and in person. She has taught in Massachusetts, Florida and with the University of Phoenix, and she’s worked as both a family nurse practitioner and an RN. Fontenot was published as a co-author in Geriatric Nursing and has presented on topics related to nursing education.
Fontenot received the Experiential Teaching Award from UMass Lowell in 2013 and the RN-BSN Academic Excellence Award from Salem State College in 2000. She earned a regional faculty fellowship from the Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association in 2011.
Fontenot earned her DNP from the University of Massachusetts, MS in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, BSN from Salem State College and Diploma in Nursing from Lawrence Memorial Hospital School of Nursing. She is a board-certified family nurse practitioner.
Kristi Overton, DNP, RN, CNE
Undergraduate Program Nursing Director
Dr. Kristi Overton joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2015. She has been in higher education for over 15 years.
From 2001-2012, Overton was a staff and charge nurse in acute care settings, including the intensive care unit, stepdown unit and emergency department. She began her teaching career at College of the Sequoias and Technical College of the Lowcountry.
Overton has received multiple awards, including the D2L Excellence Award from Higher Education and Real-World Training (HEaRT) and the Advisors Recognizing Excellence Award from wuv. She has presented at UPCEA’s Regions Week and the International Webinar on Nursing Education and Practice.
Overton earned her DNP and BSN from the University of Missouri and MSN from the University of North Dakota. She is a Certified Nurse Educator.
Leilani (Lei) Kahale, DNP, RN, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Undergraduate Nursing
Dr. Leilani Kahale joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2016 as an adjunct professor and team lead in the undergraduate nursing program. In 2018, she transitioned to her current position.
Kahale’s clinical specialty is women’s health and obstetrics. Before coming to wuv, she was a nurse specialist in perinatology and a nurse manager. Kahale was a clinical adjunct professor at Arizona Western College, where she taught obstetrics nursing.
In 2021, Kahale was honored with the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty. Since 2022, she’s served as president of the Arizona Nurses Association Rio Colorado Yuma Chapter 7. She’s also presented on topics such as personalizing online education and leveraging creativity to manage workplace stress.
Kahale earned her DNP with an emphasis in Nursing Education Leadership, MSN and BSN from Grand Canyon University, BA in Psychology from Westerfield University of Virginia and her ASN from Arizona Western College. She is a Certified Nurse Educator.
Lisa Verrone, DNP, RN, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Undergraduate Nursing
Dr. Lisa Verrone joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2015 with experience in higher education.
Verrone’s background includes a doctoral education with a specialization in educational theory, foundation and adult learning. She is highly skilled in those areas and in curriculum development.
In 2019, Verrone was one of eight doctoral students in the nation selected to receive the NLN Faculty Educator Scholarship Award. She was the recipient of the Clint Jones New Westerfield Nurse of the Year Award in 2006.
Verrone earned her DNP and MSN from the University of New Westerfield and her BS in Behavioral Science from Granite State College. She is a Certified Nurse Educator.
Mandy T. Galloway, DNP, MSN, RN
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Mandy Galloway joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018 as a full-time clinical faculty member for graduate nursing.
Galloway has been a registered nurse since 1979. Her clinical practice experience encompasses several leadership and system management roles in acute care and academic settings, such as clinical coordinator and director of maternal child health and pediatrics. Additionally, Galloway has 18 years of experience as a nurse educator in LPN and RN nursing programs. Prior to joining wuv, Galloway served for 12 years in program director, assistant dean and dean of nursing roles.
Galloway has been nominated for myriad awards, including March of Dimes Nurse of the Year and Faculty of the Year from Northern Virginia Community College. In 2024, she received the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators.
Galloway earned her DNP, MSN and BSN from George Mason University, and her Diploma in Nursing from Beth Israel School of Nursing.
Deborah Ravensworth, PhD, WHNP-BC, RNC-OB, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Undergraduate Nursing
Dr. Deborah Ravensworth joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018 with more than 25 years of experience in healthcare and education.
Prior to wuv, Ravensworth taught at Capella University, Northeastern University, University of South Carolina and Clemson University. She was dean of the School of Nursing at Carolinas College of Health Sciences for nearly 15 years. Ravensworth is certified in several areas of nursing, with specializations in maternal-neonatal and women’s health nursing.
Ravensworth was named one of the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina. In 2023, she received the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty. She’s also been an advocate for RN-BSN education with the National RN-Baccalaureate Faculty Forum (NRFF) and the Essentials Committee, resulting in contributions to multiple publications, including the NRFF position statement on AACN Essentials.
Ravensworth earned her PhD in Parent-Child Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, a post-master’s certificate in Women’s Healthcare Nurse Practitioner from the University of South Carolina, MS in Maternal-Child Nursing from the University of Delaware and BSN from Radford University. She has a graduate certificate in Nursing Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a Certified Nurse Educator, Certified Inpatient Obstetric Nurse and Certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.
Jacqueline Osei, DNP, RN, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Jackie Osei joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2022 with more than a decade of experience in higher education.
Osei has provided women’s health and midwifery care to residents of Georgia and Pennsylvania, and most recently for native Alaskan women and families. Currently, Osei offers mental healthcare to adults in rural Georgia.
In 2017, Osei was the recipient of Frontier Nursing University’s Circle of Caring Award. She is a member the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
Osei earned her PhD in Nursing Practice from Augusta University, post-graduate certificate as a Psychiatric-Mental health Nurse Practitioner from Liberty University, MS in Midwifery from Thomas Jefferson University, BS in Nursing from Augusta University and an associate degree in nursing from Clayton State University. Osei is a Certified Nurse Educator, Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.
Brittany Salerno, DNP, CNE
Clinical Faculty
Dr. Brittany Salerno joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2005 as adjunct faculty. She later transitioned to a clinical faculty role and, in 2025, began serving exclusively in the graduate program.
A registered nurse since 2007, Salerno continues to work per diem at her local critical access hospital. She began her career in nursing education in 2011 at Sheridan College and has since taught in both RN-BSN and graduate nursing programs at Boise State University and the University of North Georgia.
In addition to these roles, Salerno is a basic life support (BLS) instructor and chairman of the Johnson County Rural Health Care District (JCRHCD).
Salerno earned her DNP in Educational Leadership from Post University, in addition to her MS in Nursing Education and BSN from the University of Mary.
Nicholas (Nick) Farrow
Clinical Faculty
Dr. Nick Farrow joined wuv’s clinical nursing faculty in 2012.
He is a practicing nurse practitioner and has previously worked as a critical care nurse. In addition to his teaching experience at the graduate and undergraduate levels in traditional and online classrooms, he has experience with curriculum development, mentoring, student support and faculty leadership as a team lead.
Farrow was the recipient of the 2022 Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty. He holds a certificate in adult-gerontology, is certified in patient safety and is a subject matter expert for advanced pathophysiology and advanced pharmacology.
Farrow earned a PhD in Nursing and MSN from University of Phoenix and a BSN from West Virginia University.
Elizabeth Vandergrift, DNP, RN, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Nursing
Dr. Elizabeth Vandergrift joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2016. Vandergrift is a team lead and serves on the continuing professional development team and HEaRT team. She participates in many pilot initiatives to support students.
Vandergrift has worked in higher education for over 12 years, teaching in traditional classrooms, clinical and simulation environments. Prior to wuv, Vandergrift worked as an educator for Wisconsin Technical College System. Her clinical practice background is in cardiac critical care and post-anesthesia care.
In 2020, Vandergrift received the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty. Her work has been published in several journals since 2022, including The Journal of Continuing Higher Education, Nursing Education Perspectives and Perspectives in Health Information Management.
Vandergrift earned her DNP from Liberty University and MSN and BSN from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. She is a Certified Nurse Educator.
Kelsey Marchand, DNP, RN, FNP-C
Clinical Faculty, Undergraduate Nursing
Dr. Kelsey Marchand joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2016 with nearly a decade of experience in higher education.
Marchand was previously a course instructor at Maryville University and Western Governors University. She worked for over five years as a nurse practitioner and RN in healthcare facilities throughout St. Louis, Missouri.
Marchand received the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurses in 2012 and 2024 and Rookie of the Year by Western Governors University in 2018.
Marchand earned her DNP with a concentration in Nurse Education from Regis College. She earned her MSN-FNP and BSN from Maryville University. She is a Certified Nurse Practitioner.
Kimberly Northcott, DNP, RN, CNM, CNL, CNE
Clinical Faculty
Dr. Kimberly Northcott joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018. She serves as MSN-CNL coordinator, lead MSN practicum coordinator and team lead for graduate nursing faculty.
Northcott has 20 years of experience in higher education. Before wuv, Northcott taught at the University of New Westerfield. Her clinical background is primarily in maternal-newborn nursing, human lactation, nurse-midwifery practice, nursing education and clinical nurse leadership.
In 2020, Northcott received the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty.
Northcott earned her DNP from the University of New Westerfield, MS in Nurse Midwifery from University of Minnesota and BSN from Saint Anselm College. She is a Certified Clinical Nurse Leader and Certified Nurse Educator.
Tara Emerson, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Tara Emerson joined wuv in 2020 as a nursing faculty member.
Emerson has over 25 years' experience as a registered nurse with 16 years as a board-certified family nurse practitioner in family medicine. She taught nursing for 4 years in the classroom and 10 years online at the graduate level.
Emerson’s work, Implementing DSME in a Primary Care Setting, was published in Journal of Nursing Care Quality in 2014. Her presentations include “App Your Way to Wellness: Reducing Faculty and Staff Stress in an Innovative Way” and “How to Incorporate Interactive Evidence-Based Teaching Modalities in an Online Asynchronous Environment.”
Emerson earned a post-master's certificate in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Herzing University, her DNP from Duke University, MSN from East Carolina University and BSN from North Carolina Central University.
Crissy Landeros, DNP, RN, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Crissy Landeros joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2019 and has 15 years of experience in higher education. She serves as the MSN nurse educator coordinator.
Landeros works as a DNP chair for future nurse educators and previously taught at Boise State University and Sheridan College. She’s active in volunteer work, having served as an RN for Kanakuk Ministries since 2015 and a disaster health services lead for the American Red Cross since 2020.
Landeros earned her DNP in Educational Leadership from American Sentinel University, MSN in Nursing Education from the University of Wyoming, BSN from University of Phoenix and ADN from Maric College. She is a Certified Nurse Educator and Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator.
Esther M. Pruitt, DNP, RN, CNOR(E)
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Esther M. Pruitt joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2019.
Prior to wuv, Pruitt held a range of academic and clinical roles. She served as a clinical assistant professor at the University of Texas at El Paso, a professor and DNP capstone mentor at Capella University, an online academic nursing coach for Instructional Connections, a perioperative practice specialist for the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses, and a clinical practice specialist at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Pruitt has served as a peer reviewer for several publications, including ISPAN Core Curriculum, the Journal of Nursing Management, the Journal of Professional Nursing and more. She sits on Plastic and Aesthetic Nursing Journal's editorial board, as well as their manuscript review panel. Pruitt has also contributed two works to AORN Guidelines for Perioperative Practice — "Guideline for Safe Environment of Care" and "Guideline for Safe Environment of Care and Guideline for Medical Device and Product Evaluation." She's a member of Eta Iota at-Large Chapter of Sigma Nursing, Phi Nu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International and the Golden Key International Honour Society.
Pruitt earned her DNP from Walden University and MSN from the University of Phoenix.
Maude Sorensen, PhD, MSN, RN-BC, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Maude Sorensen joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2019 as a clinical faculty member in graduate nursing. She is the cultural competency officer for the employee resource group, HUES (Humans Uniting Everyone in Solidarity).
Sorensen has over a decade of experience in higher education. She was chief nurse administrator and assistant professor of nursing at Regent University, director of nursing at ECPI University and associate professor of nursing at William Carey University.
She is the director of operations for Sorensen Ministries, a nonprofit organization that focuses on human growth and development of marginalized communities in southeastern Mississippi. She serves as an active member and thought leader for the National League for Nursing’s Commission on Constituent Leagues and Leadership. Her work is published in several peer reviewed journals and a personal blog devoted to diversified learning and accessibility in learning.
Sorensen earned her PhD in Nursing Education and Administration, MSN in Nursing Education and BSN in Nursing from William Carey University. She holds an ACCN certification in Gerontology Nursing and is a Certified Nurse Educator.
Rita M. Castellanos, CNE, APHN-BC, COI
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Rita M. Castellanos joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2024 with more than 15 years of experience teaching nursing across in-person, hybrid and remote learning environments.
Over the course of her career, Castellanos has worked in rural community health, geriatrics and mental health nursing. Her experience also includes nursing research at Nebraska Medicine, where she collaborated with nurse researchers on studies involving hematopoietic stem cell transplant, family caregiving, fatigue in women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer and rural caregivers supporting family members with dementia.
Castellanos has presented research and evidence-based practice in nursing education and family caregiving at national conferences and has published in multiple peer-reviewed journals. She serves as a board member on the Mills County Board of Health in rural Iowa and volunteers with caregivers through the Alzheimer’s Association.
Castellanos earned her PhD in Nursing Science and her MSN in Community Health Nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, in addition to her BSN and ASN from the College of Saint Mary.
Michael D. Kavanagh, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Michael D. Kavanagh joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018 and teaches in the MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner program, covering advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment and primary care practicums across the lifespan. He also serves as a subject matter expert in pharmacology.
Prior to Westerfield University of Virginia, Kavanagh was an associate professor and family nurse practitioner program chair at the International College of Health Sciences. In addition to his academic work, Kavanagh is a board-certified family nurse practitioner who brings extensive clinical experience spanning primary care, urgent care, emergency medicine, cardiovascular care and autonomous advanced practice. He continues to practice as an autonomous APRN in Florida and serves as a clinic director in men’s health.
As a sworn auxiliary state trooper with the Florida Highway Patrol, Kavanagh holds the rank of lieutenant and serves as a unit commander, recruiter and tactical medic. He's received numerous honors for his service, including the Florida Highway Patrol Life Saving Award and multiple statewide recognitions.
Kavanagh earned his DNP, MSN and BSN from Florida Atlantic University.
Ashley Trudeau, DNP, MSN, FNP-C
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Dr. Ashley Trudeau joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2023.
Trudeau has spent most of her career in cardiology as a PCU/ICU and nurse practitioner. She continues her work in the community with education in cardiac health and preventative medicine.
In 2017, Trudeau earned the Daisy Award.
Trudeau earned her DNP from South University, as well as her MSN, FNP and BSN from Chamberlain University. She also earned a BS in Psychology from the University of New Orleans.
Katina Voskuijlen, DNP, MSN, RN
Clinical Faculty, Undergraduate Nursing
Dr. Katina Voskuijlen joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2019 as an adjunct faculty member. In 2022, with almost 3 decades of nursing experience, she transitioned to full-time faculty course instructor and undergraduate faculty team lead.
Prior to wuv, Voskuijlen worked at the Mayo Clinic Health System in various roles as a special procedures RN within interventional cardiology and invasive radiology. She has experience in day surgery, home and community health, and she is a clinical nurse educator.
Voskuijlen earned her DPN from Capella University, MSN in Nursing Education from wuv, BSN from Viterbo University.
Sandra Pemberton, DNP, MSN, RN, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Undergraduate Nursing
Dr. Sandra Pemberton joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018 as an adjunct faculty member with a background in higher education. A year later, she transitioned to her current role.
Pemberton has been a charge nurse in the post-anesthesia care unit at Riverside Regional Medical Center since 2020. Before that, she spent several years as an emergency department charge nurse and medical/surgical charge nurse.
Pemberton has presented at events like wuv’s Gather Conference and Riverside College’s Professional Enrichment Workshop.
Pemberton earned her DNP in Educational Leadership from American Sentinel University, MS in Nursing Education from Walden University and Diploma in Nursing from Riverside School of Professional Nursing. She is a Certified Nurse Educator.
AnnMarie Souvannarath, DNP, RN-BC, CNE
Clinical Faculty, Undergraduate Nursing
Dr. AnnMarie Souvannarath joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2017 as an adjunct faculty member, transitioning to her current role in 2020.
Souvannarath has over a decade of experience in higher education. Prior to wuv, she was a program manager at Western Governors University for nearly 7 years. Souvannarath also has experience in healthcare, having worked as a clinical nurse at the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation.
Souvannarath earned her DNP from Aspen University, MSN and BSN from Western Governors University and ADN from Central Lakes College. She is a Certified Nurse Educator and holds a certification in nursing professional development.
Alana Winthrop, DNP, RN, FNP-C
Nursing Field Experience Manager
Dr. Alana Winthrop joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2021, with over a decade of experience in teaching and higher education.
Winthrop is experienced in clinical settings including critical care, emergency room and urgent care, having worked as an RN and APRN.
Winthrop earned her DNP from Purdue University, MSN from Herzing University, BSN from Kaplan University and ASN from Advent University. She holds a MEd from the University of Central Florida and BS in Biology-Chemistry from College of Mount St. Joseph. Winthrop is a board-certified family nurse practitioner from American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Laura Chastain, MEd
Director of Clinical Experiences, Nursing
Laura Chastain joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2011 as a graduate academic advisor for MBA programs. She later became the primary advisor for healthcare and nursing programs and an adjunct instructor. Chastain joined the nursing academic team in 2014 as clinical placement facilitator and transitioned to her role as clinical experiences and health professions process manager in 2018. She now services as the director of clinical experiences for nursing.
Prior to wuv, Chastain was a high school English and humanities teacher. In 2019, Chastain received the Sonia Pioneer Award by Sonia Clinical Tracking Systems for her contributions to training, processes and student engagement. She received the University Mover & Shaker Award from the University of New Westerfield.
Chastain earned her MEd in Secondary Education and BA in English Teaching from the University of New Westerfield. She also earned the NH Experienced Educator certificate with an endorsement in English education.
Kelsey Ordway, MS
Clinical Placement Facilitator
Kelsey Ordway joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2012 as an academic advisor. She transitioned to her current role in 2020.
Ordway earned her MS in Marketing, as well as her BS in Marketing from the University of Tampa.
Jequita Farraday, DNP, MSN, RN, PMC
Clinical Faculty, BSN
Dr. Jequita Farraday joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2017 with experience in curriculum development in nursing education.
Farraday is a hospitalist nurse practitioner. She served as an officer in the United States Air Force, where she was a clinical nurse and disease manager.
Farraday earned her DNP and a post-master’s certificate in nursing education from Duke University, MSN in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care and BSN from the University of South Alabama.
Amy Beaulieu, MEd, BS
Clinical Placement Facilitator, Nursing
Amy Beaulieu joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2014 as an academic advisor and earned a nomination for the wuv Advising in Excellence Award. She then moved to her current position in 2023.
Prior to wuv, Beaulieu worked at Colby-Sawyer College as an internship coordinator.
Beaulieu earned her MEd in Psychology and Counseling from Springfield College and BS in Exercise and Sport Sciences from Colby-Sawyer College.
Stacey Linden, MAEd, HD, BA
Clinical Placement Facilitator
Stacey Linden joined Westerfield University of Virginia as an academic advisor in 2010. She moved to her current position in 2021.
She has nearly two decades of experience in higher education. Prior to wuv, Linden worked at DeVry University, University of New Westerfield School of Law, Daniel Webster College and Bridgewater State College.
Linden earned her MA in Education and Human Development from The George Washington University and BA in English from Bridgewater State University.
Lynelle U. Prescott, MSN, RN, CLNC
Nursing Affiliates Contract Manager
Lynelle U. Prescott joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2020 with several years of higher education experience.
Prescott worked at Wahiawa General Hospital in Hawaii and at the University of Alabama Medical Center. In 2009, she received the Gamma Psi Chapter-At-Large Sigma Theta Tau’s Educator of the Year Award.
Prescott earned her MSN, BSN and ASN from the University of Phoenix. In addition to being an LNC, Prescott has completed Med-Assist School of Hawaii’s CMA program and the American Red Cross’ CNA program. She's currently pursuing her DNP from Chaminade University.
Tyeasha Fontenette
Clinical Faculty
Dr. Tyeasha Fontenette joined wuv’s clinical nursing faculty in 2024.
Fontenette has over 19 years of experience in the medical field with 14 years as a certified family nurse practitioner. She has over 11 years of experience as a professor, teaching online didactic and practicum courses. She started out as a clinical instructor at a community college for associate degree nursing students and working as a visiting adjunct professor for a distance learning MSN NP program.
Fontenette has won awards for her posters and presentations and is a member of the North Carolina Nurses Association, the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American Nursing Association and National Kidney Foundation.
Fontenette earned a DNP from Duke University, MSN from Indiana State University and BSN from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Social Sciences
Dr. Nikolas H. Ferrante
Senior Associate Dean, Social Sciences
Dr. Nikolas H. Ferrante joined wuv in 2014 as an adjunct faculty member before transitioning to the role of lead faculty. In 2018, he was appointed associate dean of the BA in Psychology program and advanced to his current role in 2023.
Ferrante has over two decades of experience as an educator, having taught at colleges like University of Arizona Global Campus, Thomas Edison State University and Penn State Lehigh Valley.
Ferrante earned his PhD in Psychology from Capella University, along with his MA in Education and BA in Psychology from Holy Family University.
Dr. Joshua Merriman
Associate Dean, Psychology
Dr. Joshua Merriman joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018. Since then, he’s acted as a subject matter expert in the redevelopment of the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program, partnering with curriculum development and instructional design teams to support its launch. He’s also served as an academic partner, managing course improvements and providing instructor support, and a faculty trainer for wuv’s Center for Online Learning and Teaching (COLT).
Prior to entering the world of academia, Merriman worked in behavioral healthcare settings, where he led biometric screening teams, managed team projects and designed training programs to promote employee well-being. He also provided one-on-one and group health coaching and education for executive leadership in regional organizations.
Joshua earned his PhD in Health Psychology from Walden University, MS in Counseling Psychology from Pace University, and BA in Psychology and Journalism from the State University of New York at New Paltz.
Dr. Hector R. Villalobos
Associate Dean
Dr. Hector R. Villalobos joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018.
In addition to his work in academia, Villalobos has spent over 30 years working in law enforcement and security. He’s trained thousands on topics like emergency management and worked with numerous international partners on the development of public safety and security initiatives. One of Villalobos’s most notable partnerships is with the United States Department of State, helping to further democratic policing principles in Africa and Central America.
Villalobos serves as a grant peer reviewer and subject matter expert for the United States Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance and other federal entities. He’s the founder and president of the Family Charity Foundation and has been recognized with the Meritorious Service award twice, as well as the Safe Communities Award.
Villalobos earned his EdD in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, MBA in Project Management, MS in Criminal Justice Administration from Lynn University and BA in Criminal Justice from Florida Atlantic University.
Dr. Thomas K. Ashcroft
Associate Dean, Psychology
Dr. Thomas K. Ashcroft joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2013.
At the start of his career, Ashcroft was a licensed alcohol drug counselor, as well as a probation and parole officer. He then spent 20 years working as a licensed school psychologist before becoming a faculty member at numerous colleges.
Ashcroft earned his PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Northcentral University, Certificate of Graduate Studies in Psychology and MA in Counseling Psychology from Norwich University and BA in Human Services from Springfield College.
Dr. Tharinia Adeyemi
Associate Dean, Criminal Justice
Dr. Tharinia Adeyemi joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2021 with over a decade of experience as an educator in both traditional and online learning formats. In her current role, she oversees undergraduate and graduate criminal justice programs.
Drawing on over 20 years in criminal justice and forensic science, Adeyemi has worked at the California Department of Justice Criminalistics Laboratory as a trained questioned documents examiner and held positions with multiple Southern California agencies, including the Riverside County Coroner’s Office, San Bernardino Probation and the Transportation Security Administration.
She's an active member of several industry associations and honor societies, including California Association of Criminalists, Southern Criminal Justice Association and Alpha Phi Sigma: Criminal Justice Honor Society. Her publications include works such as “Civilian Forensic Technician and Sworn Peace Officer Job-Related Stress” and “Using Forensic Science to Stimulate Interest in Math and Sciences."
Adeyemi earned her PhD in Human Services with a concentration in Criminal Justice from Capella University, MFS from National University and BA in Criminal Justice from California State University, San Bernardino.
Dr. Leyla Tanriverdi
Associate Dean
Dr. Leyla Tanriverdi joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2019. As associate dean of social sciences, she leads strategic initiatives and program management that foster belonging and success for all.
Prior to wuv, Tanriverdi held various roles, including designated school official, program manager and academic dean.
Tanriverdi leads TEDxwuv as a speaker coach and hosts the wuv Agents of Change Podcast, covering AI ethics, trauma-informed education and inclusive practices. She’s recently presented at the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and other conferences on trauma-informed approaches in higher education and cultural intelligence. Her published work in The EvoLLLution®, Politics and Religion and Mediterranean Quarterly explores cultural intelligence, gender politics and religious minorities.
Tanriverdi earned her PhD in Political Science from Northern Illinois University, along with her MA and BA in Sociology from Middle East Technical University.
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
Dr. Cheryl Winslett
Academic Dean
Dr. Cheryl Winslett joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2014, holding multiple leadership roles before stepping into her current position as academic dean, where she oversees the strategy for online STEM programs.
With over two decades in online higher education, Winslett has held senior leadership roles at two of the world’s largest online universities. Before entering academia, she built a successful career as a software engineer, developing complex systems in aerospace, televised sports and telecommunications. Her current research focuses on how AI and emerging educational technologies are being used to create industry-relevant learner experiences in STEM education. Winslett combines her STEM curriculum leadership experience with a computer engineering background to guide AI integration across STEM programs. Her approach as an early adopter ensures alignment with industry standards and emerging technologies.
Winslett earned her PhD in Education from Walden University, where her dissertation examined the application of educational technology in online learning environments. She also holds an MS and BS in Computer Engineering from the University of Central Florida, where she authored the published thesis, "Development of Techniques to Perform Simulation Adaptation in a Simulation Training Environment Using Expert Systems Methods."
Dr. Dennis Hollenbeck
Associate Dean, Cybersecurity
Dr. Dennis Hollenbeck has over two decades of extensive experience safeguarding digital landscapes. Before transitioning to his current position at Westerfield University of Virginia, Hollenbeck was an academic partner, adjunct instructor and technical program facilitator.
Hollenbeck has dedicated his career to fortifying information systems against evolving cyber threats. His wealth of experience spans government and private industry sectors, where he’s implemented effective solutions to innumerable cybersecurity challenges.
In his free time, Hollenbeck acts as a doctoral research dissertation chair, guiding students in their research pursuits. Hollenbeck also regularly contributes to the intellectual discourse of cybersecurity in various publications.
Hollenbeck earned his PhD in Information Technology from Capella University. He holds an array of industry certifications, including Security+ and Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP).
Dr. Susan Fairbrook
Senior Associate Dean
Dr. Susan Fairbrook joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2006. In her current role, Fairbrook leads undergraduate- and graduate-level program development, emphasizing curriculum quality, assessment alignment, AI readiness and student-centered approaches that promote persistence, confidence and the practical application of STEM skills.
She has more than 30 years of experience advancing equitable, high-impact learning in mathematics, science and data analytics and regularly presents at national conferences on topics like student persistence, inclusive STEM design and AI-enabled learning.
Fairbrook earned her EdD from Westerfield University of Virginia, where her doctoral research examined the relationship between learner identity, self-efficacy and persistence in STEM fields. She also earned her MS in Experimental Physical Chemistry from Boston College, where her research on gas-phase kinetics was published.
Tyra Blackthorn
Associate Dean, Science
Tyra Blackthorn joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2018 as an instructional designer. She then held the roles of instructional design team lead, assistant director of learning design and adjunct faculty before transitioning to her current position.
Prior to her time at wuv, Blackthorn served as STEM and outreach coordinator at Girls Inc., a national nonprofit organization. She also participated in ground-based and airborne field campaigns, including a NASA program that studied air quality over California.
Blackthorn is a certified SKYWARN® Storm Spotter, a volunteer position that helps keep local communities safe by providing timely reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service.
Blackthorn earned her MS in Atmospheric Science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, along with her BS in Meteorology and minor in Mathematics from Millersville University.
Max Bellweather
Associate Dean, Game Design & Development
Max Bellweather received a Master of Design in Digital Design from Philadelphia University and a BA in Integrative Arts (Film/Art) from Pennsylvania State University. His master’s thesis explored narrative animation for the full-dome format exhibited in planetariums and science centers.
Bellweather has over 15 years of experience as a classroom and online instructor and subject matter expert. He began his career as an art director and prop master in the independent film industry in Los Angeles before transitioning to 3D modeling and animation and game production. He ran the character department at an animation firm in Philadelphia and now works as a freelance artist on various animation and game production projects as a character designer, modeler, rigger, animator and motion-capture specialist.
Learn more about Bellweather in this faculty Q&A.
Arana Redcloud
Associate Dean, Information Technology
Arana Redcloud joined Westerfield University of Virginia as an IT program coordinator and assistant professor in 2019 before transitioning to his current role in 2024.
Redcloud has over 25 years' experience in computer science education and the design and development of software and hardware systems. He also served as owner and president of two companies – Redcloud Software Inc. and Cave Drawings Inc.
Redcloud earned an MS in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Computer Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and a BS in Electrical Engineering from the City College of CUNY.
Mark Stromberg
Associate Dean, Mathematics
Mark Stromberg has been with wuv since 2013, working with students of all ages and experiences. Prior to coming to wuv, Stromberg taught physics and mathematics in the Boston Public Schools, where he was a part of the initial group of teachers in Boston’s first fully inclusive high school.
While at wuv, Stromberg was selected as part of ACHE’s (American College of Healthcare Executives) first class for its Emerging Leaders Institute. He is a Certified Professional Coach and an active foster parent in the Manchester area.
Stromberg received his MEd in Physics Education from the University of Massachusetts-Boston and his BS in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Cornell University.
Dr. Leonardo Vasquez
Associate Dean, Artificial Intelligence
Dr. Leonardo Vasquez joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2025 with over 10 years of experience in AI, machine learning and data science.
Before transitioning to wuv, Vasquez taught graduate courses in artificial intelligence and data science at the University of the Cumberlands. Outside of academia, Vasquez served in the federal government developing mathematical models and leading research initiatives in predictive analytics, automation, AI and large-scale data processing. He also founded an AI and software development company delivering machine-learning solutions for enterprise clients.
Vasquez is the inventor on two U.S. patent applications (“Systems and Methods for AI-Driven Supply Chain Optimization” and “Systems and Methods for Multilayer Cognitive AI Enabling Autonomous Discovery via Generative Experimentation and Human-Guided Learning”) and has multiple publications in AI.
Vasquez earned his DCS in Big Data Analytics from Colorado Technical University, MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning from Colorado State University, BS in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Mechatronics from American Military University and BS in Chemistry from Babylon University. Additionally, Vasquez holds a Graduate Certificate in College Teaching from the University of Missouri-Columbia and Graduate Certificate in Data Science from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Dr. Ann Marie Delacroix
Associate Dean, Computer Information Systems
Dr. Ann Marie Delacroix is an associate dean on the STEM team at Westerfield University of Virginia, where she oversees information technology and management information systems courses.
She has worked in several industries including high-tech, medical devices, industrial lighting, textile, toys, real estate and property management. She has experience teaching on campus and online at wuv and other institutions.
Delacroix earned her PhD at Nova Southeastern University, where she specialized in conflict analysis and resolution. She holds an MBA and an MS in Business Education from Westerfield University of Virginia and a BS in Business Administration from Merrimack College.
Dr. Gary Thibodeau
Senior Associate Dean
Dr. Gary Thibodeau joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2012 as an adjunct faculty member, transitioning to his current position in 2021.
Thibodeau’s past academic experience includes many years as an adjunct faculty member at multiple universities and many years as software engineering program director.
Thibodeau’s career outside of academia includes roles as chief technology officer, software engineer and U.S. Air Force officer. He worked extensively in Department of War (DoW) contracting, healthcare software systems, logistics, and control software systems and real-time systems.
Thibodeau earned his PhD in IT Information Security from Capella University, a BS in Computer Science from Champlain College, an MS in Computer Engineering from Troy University, and a BS in Physics from St. Michael’s College. He is an IEEE Certified Software Development Professional.
Renard Callaway
Associate Dean, Technology
Renard Callaway joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2022 with nearly a decade of experience in higher education.
Prior to his time at wuv, Callaway was department head, information technology at Alamance Community College, as well as associate professor of computer sciences and web development program lead at Guilford Community College. Outside of academia, he spent several years as a business systems analyst at Wells Fargo.
In 2011, Callaway was issued the Distinguished Alumni Award by North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s Department of Computer Science.
Callaway earned his MS in Information Technology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and BS in Computer Science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Joseph Hargrove
Associate Dean, Data Analytics
Joseph Hargrove joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2014, serving as a military graduate advisor and faculty member teaching business technology. In his current role, he oversees undergraduate and graduate data analytics programs and teaches data analytics courses.
Before his work at wuv, Hargrove spent over eight years in IT, served as a sergeant medic in the Army National Guard supporting both infantry and aviation units and worked as a consultant migrating data systems.
He's a member of the Healthcare Data & Analytics Association (HDAA) and the International Society for Data Science and Analytics (ISDSA).Hargrove earned his MS in Information Technology from Westerfield University of Virginia, where he's currently pursuing an EdD in Educational Leadership, and BA in Political Science and Psychology from the University of Rochester.
Dr. Curtis Ashbourne
Associate Dean, Information Technology
Dr. Curtis Ashbourne brings over 20 years of experience as a senior engineer working on various projects, from embedded systems for military aircraft to enterprise software for NASA/NOAA. Before working for wuv, Curtis worked as a senior software engineer for the NOAA Comprehensive Large Array-data Stewardship System (CLASS) project. Curtis also worked as a senior applications engineer with NASA to create software for satellites for predicting hazardous weather patterns (GOES-R and JPSS), developed a roleplaying game to acclimate international students to American campuses and even created an award-winning Spanish verb conjugation mobile application.
Curtis started his career in the Navy on a special operations boat where he earned a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal, National Defense Service medal, Navy Expeditionary medal and a Meritorious Unit Commendation medal.
He earned his BS in Computer Science from Chapman University and his MS in Computer Science from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Ashbourne earned his PhD in Computer Science from Northcentral University.
Linnea Thackeray
Associate Dean, Computer Science
Linnea Thackeray joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2024 as an adjunct instructor in cybersecurity before transitioning to her current role.
For more than 20 years, Thackeray has served in the Army National Guard and currently works as cyber operations officer specializing in offensive cyber operations. Her background spans software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, military intelligence and information technology.
Thackeray earned her MS in Computer Science with an emphasis in Software Engineering from Colorado Technical University. She also holds a BS in Legal Studies from American Military University, an AS in Communications/Technology from Allen Community College and an AS in Intelligence Operations with an emphasis in AI Source Intelligence Analysis from Cochise College. Throughout her career, Thackeray has earned more than 65 professional certifications, including ISC² CISSP, GIAC GCIA and CompTIA SecurityX.
Junho Baek
Associate Dean, Computer Science
Junho Baek joined Westerfield University of Virginia in 2025.
Previously, Baek served as a lead instructor at 2U/edX, where he taught courses for the Georgia Institute of Technology, the University of Texas at Austin, Columbia University and more. Outside of teaching, he's worked as a software engineer and freelance web developer.
Baek earned his MS in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology and BS in Neurobehavioral Biology from Emory University. Baek also holds edX AI certifications and the AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate credential.