Raritan Valley Community College

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Advising & Counseling - Meet the Staff

Hello! My name is Mary O’Malley. As the Executive Director of Enrollment Services, I also serve as director of Advising and Counseling Services. I work with the staff in Advising & Counseling Services to assist you with the transition to college; to help you learn to use the College catalog, Lion’s Den, and other resources to participate fully and effectively in your college experience; and to help you plan for transfer to 4 year college, if that is your goal. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Montclair State, my Master’s degree from the University of South Carolina, and a Certificate in Advanced Graduate Study from the University of Pennsylvania. I have worked in college student services at The College of Wooster, Franklin & Marshall College, Delaware County Community College, and Bergen Community College, before coming to Raritan Valley in 2005. In my spare time, I enjoy bicycling, hiking, gardening, traveling, photography, and spending time with my nieces and nephews.
Hello, my name is Donyea T. Collins. I have been an Academic Advisor for several years and love the satisfaction and self-worth I get from helping students navigate through their college experience. I obtained my Bachelors degree in Mass Communications from Barber-Scotia College (Concord, NC) and am currently working on completing my Masters in Education at Concordia University (St. Paul, MN). Some of the things I enjoy outside of work are family, fatherhood, writing, reading, and music. Email me!
My name is Kristen David and I have been an Academic Advisor at RVCC since 2002. In 2006, I became a mother and decided to work part-time to devote more time to my son. I find Academic Advising very rewarding because I sincerely love helping students with their academic concerns, decision making abilities and goals. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Communicative Disorders from the University of Rhode Island. I loved URI so much, that I continued my education there and received my Master’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in College Student Personnel. In my spare time I enjoy cooking, drawing, and spending time with my family. I am a loyal NY Jets & Mets fan and travel up to R.I. whenever I get the chance. Email me!
Hi, my name is Greg DeSanctis. I have been an Academic Advisor at RVCC for two years. Prior to becoming an advisor, I spent six years working in the Financial Aid Office at RVCC. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in Labor Relations and am completing work on my Masters degree in Education from the University of Phoenix. I serve as the advisor for both NJ STARS and RVCC Honors programs. I know that navigating your way through college can be extremely challenging. I am here to help guide you and alleviate any concerns you have surrounding your academic progress at RVCC. My door is always open and I welcome your visit…so stop by anytime! In my spare time I enjoy lifting weights, jogging and playing sports (softball and football). I am a devoted PSU alumnus who can be found every Saturday during the fall watching Penn State football. Email me!
Hi! My name is Christine Foster Cates. I received my B.A. in Communications from Utica College of Syracuse University and then because I loved my college experience so much decided, “how can I make this a career” and went on to get my M. Ed. in Student Development Administration from Seattle University. I have worked in various capacities in higher education over the last 10 years, Residential Life, International Services, Disability Services, and most recently in Academic Advising. Before coming to RVCC a few years ago, I worked in Ecuador, South America as well as Atlanta, GA. At RVCC I enjoy helping students reach their potential and teaching “The College Experience” course where I have been able to help students adjust to the new experience of college life and learn about the great opportunities that are available to them. In my free time I love to travel, make creative things, and enjoy time with family and friends. I look forward to meeting you so stop by and say hi when you get a chance! Email me!
Hello, my name is Naomi Gelfand. My undergraduate degree is in Secondary English Education, and my master’s degree is in Student Personnel Services. I have been working as a college counselor since 1990, first at Berkshire Community College in Massachusetts and now at RVCC since February 2006. My primary focus has been transfer counseling, and I have helped thousands of students move on to get their bachelor’s degree, which I find very gratifying. When I’m not working, I might be spending time with my family, singing in a choir, reading, enjoying theater or movies, biking or hiking, and generally trying to enhance my life and have fun. Email me!
My name is Bambi Kuhl and I have been a Counselor at RVCC since October, 2006. As a counselor, my focus is to help to students learn to successfully navigate life’s obstacles so that they will obtain their degree of choice at RVCC. I received a B.A. in Psychology and English from Livingston College, Rutgers University, an M.A. in English from Rutgers University, and am a Certified Social Worker. My interests include movies, theatre, writing, tile making, and ongoing attempts at training a very bad dog. Email me!
My name is Barbara Luby and my goal is to help you get the most out of your education here at Raritan Valley Community College. I enjoy working with students in any capacity, whether assisting with academic planning, overcoming personal obstacles or teaching a Psychology class. A graduate of Kean University, I earned my BA in Psychology in 1991 and an MA in Behavioral Science in 1993. I have been working in a college environment since then, coming to Raritan Valley Community College in 1996 as a Counselor. In my spare time, I like to be with my two dogs and three children and enjoy tennis, bridge, theater, film and reading. Email me!
My name is Lisa Spencer and I received a BA in Sociology from Mount Holyoke College. I am a certified School Social Worker as well as a Substance Abuse Coordinator with advanced standing. My background is in the prevention field. Prior to RVCC, I presented drug education programs in Hunterdon County schools in grades K – 12. I am Secretary to the Juvenile Officers’ Association of Hunterdon County and Past Chair of the Central Hunterdon Municipal Alliance which funds drug education programs using confiscated drug money from the State. I have been honored as Hunterdon County’s Volunteer of the Year by the Governor’s Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse and at Hunterdon Central Regional High School’s Golden Rule Dinner for commitment to service in the community. I currently serve on several Hunterdon County committees. I am a huge country western fan, and garden to de-stress. Email me!
My name is Elizabeth Sullivan and I have been with RVCC for 8 years. I started as an Academic Advisor, and in 2001 became the International Student Advisor. My responsibilities include the admission process for all international F1 status students, assisting with the F1 visa process, advisement on immigration policy and procedure and the maintenance of all F1 student records at RVCC. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Education from East Stroudsburg University. I enjoy spending time with family, US travel, walking/hiking and good food. I look forward to assisting you. Email me!
My name is Lisa Villanueva. Although I am fairly new to the RVCC community, I have been in Academic Advisement for approximately six years. I obtained my Bachelors degree in Sociology with a minor in Secondary Education and Youth Service from Queens College (CUNY). I am currently the assigned advisor for students enrolled in the Electric Utility Program here at RVCC. I truly enjoy establishing lasting relationships with students and assisting with their academic growth throughout their college experience. I believe that the advisement process should not just take place during registration; it is not just a sign off on a form. It is a dual opportunity for students to connect with college professionals and for college professionals to better understand the needs of the students. On a personal level, I enjoy sharing a good laugh with those dear to me as well as spending a night out in the city with friends. Email me!
My name is Anne Walters, and I began working at the college in 1995 when I was hired to run the new Information Center. In 2000 I became an Academic Advisor where I have been happily working ever since. I thoroughly enjoy interacting with students of all ages and helping them with their academic concerns, challenges and goals. I am also in charge of the Lifelong Educational Opportunity (LEO) Program for adult students who are continuing their education or who are going to college for the first time. I have an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from Raritan Valley Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Drew University. I am currently in the process of earning my Master’s Degree in Family Studies and Human Services from Kansas State University. I am passionate about art and plan to earn another Master’s Degree in Art Therapy in the near future. I enjoy creating art in all forms; listening to music, especially jazz; watching documentaries and movies and practicing yoga. Email me!
My name is Jeffrey Warren. I am a Counselor and the Coordinator of Brothers Helping Brothers (BHB). BHB provides supportive services to minority males attending RVCC. I provide students with academic, personal, career, group and some transfer counseling as well as help them register/select classes. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Youngstown State University and my Master’s degree in Community Counseling from Saint Bonaventure University. I have a 10 year old son and I love watching college basketball. Email me!
My name is John Wheeler. I have been an Academic Advisor since 2001, and I also teach English as an adjunct instructor. I assist students with academic questions and concerns, with the transfer process, and with the process of acquiring and maintaining F-1 international student status. I received my Bachelor’s degree from George Washington University, and Master’s degrees from University of Connecticut and SUNY-Oneonta. I enjoy exercise, reading and music of all kinds, and I am a New York Giants fan. I look forward to assisting you! Email me!
Hello, my name is Bruce Yellin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from Rutgers University and a Bachelor's in Education from Temple University. I've worked for 20 years in the field of public mental health as a manager in program development and operations, as well as a clinician providing counseling and coaching for clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, family issues, and addictions. I believe in listening closely to what the person wants, providing empathy and acceptance to build trust, and then working collaboratively to help students reclaim their inner resourcefulness and power. I use evidenced-based techniques including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral techniques that are action-oriented as research has shown that small, consistent steps of progress can engender self-confidence and hope. In my spare time, I love watching foreign films and documentaries, cooking ethnic dishes, hiking and I have a special interest in building and participating in Native American sweat lodges and have been a member of The Mankind Project (www.MKP.org) for 13 years. Email me!
Hello my name is Eileen Liebmann. I joined the staff of Advising and Counseling over two decades ago. My extensive work experience at the College includes being secretary to the Dean of Students as well as serving as administrative assistant within the Advising and Counseling Department. The student enrollment growth and quality of services required to meet their needs has greatly expanded during this time. The most enjoyable part of my job is assisting students, whether they are choosing to participate in the study skills workshops, encouraging them to take advantage of our CA101 sessions designed for all first time, full time students, scheduling personal counseling services, contacting special services, helping international students, just to name a few. I enjoy the interaction with our professionals as well as students. I hold two degrees from RVCC, and I am a member of Phi Theta Kappa. My classroom experience contributes to relating to the students and their issues. As a local resident of Branchburg, I also appreciate the convenience of the programs offered at the Theatre. My family frequently makes use of the programs offered at the college. I enjoy reading, trips to the shore, cooking, and family time. Email me!
My name is Donna-Marie Marhevka. I have been an Administrative Assistant with Advising & Counseling Services for over two decades. I assist the counseling staff on a daily basis and support the needs of the RVCC students as well. I am an upbeat and friendly individual and a good listener. My enthusiastic attitude and dedication is one of many reasons why I like being part of the RVCC Community and having the opportunity for always improving our counseling services. In my spare time, I love traveling all over the United States and spending time with friends. Email me!