ASPIRE Program
Staff
The ASPIRE/Student Support Services staff is available to assist program participants with both academic and personal concerns. Students may make appointments or simply drop by our offices to talk with staff members. We are here to help students achieve success at the University.
The ASPIRE staff includes:
(Left to right) Deborah McCune, Jennifer "Jenny" Jones, Maija Braaten, Jean Patterson, Dr. R. Denise Myers.
Dr. Myers is responsible for the overall operations of the ASPIRE Program. She provides leadership, creativity, and direction to the team. As a first generation college student from a low-income family, Dr. Myers appreciates the importance of a strong network of support for academic success, and is a strong advocate for student issues and student empowerment.
Ms. McCune works with all enrolled students with disabilities, regardless of ASPIRE/SSS membership. She coordinates access and services for qualified students, including classroom accommodations, testing modifications, alternate format texts/materials, sign language interpreting and priority registration. She also coordinates with other departments to address housing-related needs, physical campus accessibility, accessible parking and other disability-related requests.
Email her at mccuned@montevallo.edu
Ms. Jones works with students during their application and intake process into the ASPIRE/SSS program and develops an educational action plan with each SSS student. Additionally, Ms. Jones designs and coordinates cultural, career, and personal issues programming for SSS students and serves SSS students as an academic advisor and liaison to a variety of campus resources.
Email her at jonesjl@montevallo.edu
Ms. Braaten coordinates tutoring, provides training and support for tutors, develops handouts and resources on study skills-related topics, and facilitates academic success seminars. Ms. Braaten also provides academic advising and counseling assistance, and updates the ASPIRE/Student Support Services' website.
Email her at braatenmm@montevallo.edu
Ms. Patterson provides secretarial and office support functions for ASPIRE Program and Disability Support Services staff and students.
Email her at patterj@montevallo.edu
All students needing academic assistance are encouraged to come to our offices, meet our staff and learn about how the ASPIRE Program can contribute to their college success.