The Office of Residence Life is made up of 15 full-time staff, 16 graduate staff, and 104 undergraduate staff members. Get to know our full-time and graduate-level staff better below!
The leadership team consists of the Director, the Associate Director, and two Assistant Directors.
Skip Begley | Director
My name is Skip Begley (he/him/his) and as the veteran of the Office of Residence Life, thank you for your interest in our staff positions! I have been at CWRU in a variety of positions in residence life since 2001, arriving from Longwood College (now University) where I was a Residence Education Coordinator. I have loved working in Residence Life since I was an RA - no other position in student affairs brings the sense of teamwork, the daily variety, the challenges, and the opportunities that Residence Life does. A wise ACUHO-I Intern of ours once remarked - "you don't choose the ResLife, the ResLife chooses you." True words indeed.
In my work, I concentrate on providing leadership for the department, developing the Residential Experiences, budgeting, and advising our Residence Hall Association. I believe that we can orient ourselves to our work in three ways - we can do things TO students, we can do things FOR students, but we do our best work when we do things WITH students. I find tremendous joy in building community with our students.
Working at CWRU has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career. I have been able to connect with some of the finest professionals I have ever known, work with students who are truly dedicated to making a difference where they live, and explore ideas and concepts about residential communities that have shaped me into the professional I am today. I hope that you find the same experience as well.
Favorite Restaurant: Pizzazz on the Circle
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Grab a pizza from Danny Boy’s and head to Rocky River Beach to eat dinner, watch the sunset, and then hit up Mitchell’s for some ice cream afterwards.
Devin Fabian | Associate Director
My name is Devin Fabian (he/him), and I joined the office as the Associate Director in October 2021. I work closely with Student Affairs and the leadership team on all things ResLife and provide overall guidance for the First Year and Second Year Residential Experiences at CWRU, office strategic planning & assessment, and our student support initiatives.
I earned a bachelors degree in history from the University of Pittsburgh in 2012, minoring in sociology and Italian language studies. In 2014, I completed my masters-level coursework in Higher Education Management. Hail to Pitt! I'm originally from Pittsburgh (Here We Go, Steelers!) and identify as a lifelong Yinzer. Prior to joining CWRU, I spent seven years in Pittsburgh at Chatham University, serving as a professional staff and as adjunct faculty. My academic focus areas have been student success & transitions, socialization & identity development, and social justice education.
When I'm not working, I spend most of my time being a full-time dog dad, doing random DIY projects, caring for my houseplants, expanding my culinary skills, and playing video games. Additionally, the way to my heart is good food, so I'm always on the hunt for pierogi, copious amounts of pasta, and sandwiches with french fries on them. In whatever spare time I have, I play tons of trivia and community based sports, too!
Favorite Restaurant: Pepper's
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Take advantage of the green space, parks, and walkability of the city. I live on the West Side and walk everywhere that I can! Main streets, movie theaters, wine bars, food trucks, and markets are all over the place.
Emily Aburaad | Assistant Director (Staffing Development)
Hi, I’m Emily (she/her) and I serve as the Assistant Director for Staff Development! I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in English from the University of Toledo and later earned a Master's degree in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University. At BGSU, I served as a Graduate Hall Director for 2 years.
My professional background also includes roles as an International Leadership Consultant for Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority, Leasing Manager, and Assistant General Manager for American Campus Communities at UToledo.
My journey in student affairs began as a Resident Assistant and an active member of my campus's Greek Life community, which fueled my passion for this field and the transformative impact the college experience can have on students. My experiences in undergrad led me to where I am today!
Originally from Toledo, OH, I proudly embrace my Ohioan roots—Midwest is best! When I'm not working, I love to cook and try new recipes, attend concerts, travel and explore new places, and read thriller/mystery books. At home, our cat Mish Mish (Arabic for "apricot") keeps my husband and I on our toes.
Favorite Restaurant: Shinto or Cilantro!
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: SHOP! We have so many great places like Crocker Park and West Side Market in the area.
David Kahoun | Assistant Director (Independent Living)
Hey everyone!! My name is David Kahoun, and I’m so excited to be on the team here a CWRU. I am originally from the greater Cleveland area, growing up in Perry, Ohio. I went to undergrad at Malone University in Canton, Ohio and got my Master from Lee University in Cleveland, TN. After getting my masters, I went to work at Cleveland State University. Guess I have a thing for Clevelands… I am a huge Cleveland sports fan (Browns, Cavs, Guardians) and a big USMNT fan! I'm also a very active person. I love to run, snowboard, bike, hike, and really do anything outside. I’m also a huge extrovert, so as long as there are people and sunshine, I will be there!
I’m also a huge fan of music! I have a vinyl collection of over 100 albums and growing. I love a good album! Coldplay is my favorite band and I have seen them live 2 times. Ohh.. I’m also a big fan of electric cars, and hope to one day own a Rivian! #dreambig!
If you find me wondering about on campus, please feel free to say hi and introduce yourself! I love meeting new people and making everyone feel welcomed and that they matter. Hope to see you around!!
Favorite Restaurant: For pizza? Vero. For sushi? Sora. For anything else? Mabel's BBQ.
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Sports? Cleveland Browns. Leisure? West Side Market, Is it sunny? Then let's go to Edgewater Park!
The First Year Experience consists of four full-time professional staff members and four paraprofessional staff, who work together in paired A/RCD teams to oversee communities of 230-480 residents and between 6-12 RAs.
Shaunese Johnson | Residential Community Director, Cedar Magnolia
My name is Shaunese (She/Her/Hers) and I will be the RCD for Cedar Magnolia! For undergrad I attended La Roche University in Pittsburgh from 2012-2016 and majored in Communications and Child/Family Studies. I obtained my Master's Degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Slippery Rock University in 2019.
I was born in Pittsburgh and have been living in Northeast Ohio for two years now. I worked as an Area Coordinator for Residence Life at Seton Hill in Pennsylvania for three years overseeing first year communities. I worked at Kent State University as a Residence Hall Director overseeing both first year communities and upper-class communities.
A few fun facts about me: I enjoy reading a good book, gaming, traveling, thrifting, creating art, and being out in nature.
Favorite Restaurant: Bob Evans or Marco's
Favorite Thing to do in Cleveland: Spending time aimlessly wandering the museums and exploring the city
Elise Rolston | Assistant Residential Community Director, Cedar Magnolia
Hey y’all! My name is Elise Rolston and I am the ARCD for Cedar Magnolia! I graduated from CWRU in 2023 with a degree in Psychology and Cognitive Science. Currently, I am pursuing a dual Masters in Social Work and Business Administration.
I grew up in Northern Virginia, right outside DC, but have grown to love Cleveland and all it has to offer. When I’m not studying or working, I enjoy going on walks around campus (particularly around Wade Lagoon), working out, reading, or hanging out with my cat, Bingus. I also love exploring Cleveland and finding new restaurants!
Favorite Restaurant: Nano Brew or Cilantro Taqueria
Favorite Thing to do in Cleveland: Exploring new coffee shops or restaurants
Alex Morris | Residential Community Director, Juniper
Hello! My name is Alex Morris and I joined the department in the summer of 2023. I currently serve as the Residential Community Director for the Juniper community. I graduated in 2018 from Bowling Green State University with my Bachelors in Sociology then graduated in 2021 with my Masters in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
I grew up in Elyria, Ohio so I am familiar with the Cleveland area and what makes it a great place to call home. I spent two years in Pennsylvania and the past two years at Muskingum University. Northeast Ohio is home and I am so excited to be back!
My spare time includes walking my two dogs, reading, binging my anime addiction of the week and anything Pokémon related!
Favorite Restaurant: Trattoria
My favorite thing to do in Cleveland: is to go to the Feast of the Assumption in Little Italy!
Mikayla Heinrich Wong | Assistant Residential Community Director, Juniper
Hi! I’m Mikayla Heinrich-Wong and this is my first year as the Assistant Residential Community Director for the Juniper community. I graduated from Case Western with my bachelors in Computer Science and Contemporary Dance. I came back to Case Western and am currently pursuing my Masters of Fine Arts in Contemporary Dance!
I was born and raised on Oahu, Hawai’i and I still have not gotten used to the Cleveland winters! Spending the past 5 years in Cleveland, I really love the community’s passion for both sports and the arts.
When I’m not dancing, I like to watch movies, go to the beach, read some books, and hangout with friends!
Favorite Restaurant: Barrio
Favorite Thing To Do in Cleveland: Go to Trader Joe’s! (we don’t have them in Hawai’i)
Allie Lyncha | Residential Community Director, Mistletoe
Hi! My name is Allie Lyncha (she/her), and I joined the department in the fall of 2023. I serve as the Residential Community Director for the Mistletoe Residential Community, overseeing Norton, Raymond, Sherman, and Tyler. I graduated in 2021 from the University of Mount Union with my Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science, then with my Master of Art in Education, Higher Education Student Affairs in 2023 from The Ohio State University.
I grew up in Medina, Ohio, and Cleveland has always been one of my favorite cities. I am an avid Browns and Guardians fan, and find myself spending a lot of my time following how they are doing. Living in Columbus was a lot of fun, but Northeast Ohio is definitely where I call home.
If I am not watching a game, I am probably watching a Bravo reality TV show, reading, trying a new recipe, or hanging out with my cats, Tank and Cannon.
Favorite Restaurant: Mabel's BBQ
Favorite Thing to do in Cleveland: Hang out downtown on a gameday!
Maria Leonino | Assistant Residential Community Director, Mistletoe
Hi! My name is Maria Leonino (she/her) and this is my first year as the ARCD for the Mistletoe community. I graduated from the University of Mount Union in May of 2024 with my B.A in Public Relations. I am currently attending Kent State University to earn my M.Ed in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs. During my time in undergrad I was involved in a variety of different organizations that made me realize my passion was working in student affairs. I love the developmental aspect of college students and am looking forward to working with the students here at CWRU!
I am from Kent, Ohio, and I have lived there my whole life. My family is from the Akron area, so I am very thankful to still be close to them! I love spending time with my family and friends, reading, and exploring different places in Cleveland!
Favorite Restaurant: Mamma Santa’s in Little Italy
Favorite Thing to do in Cleveland: Guardians games with my family and trying new restaurants!
Tessa Conville | Residential Community Director, Clarke Tower
Hi there! My name is Tessa Conville (she/her) and I currently serve as the Residential Community Director for Clarke Tower. I joined the CWRU Residence Life team in August of 2021. Prior to working at CWRU, I served as an Area Coordinator for the Office of Residential Education at Hiram College from 2019-2021. I earned my B.S. in Psychology from Saint Vincent College in 2016 and my M.A. in Student Affairs in Higher Education with College Counseling from Slippery Rock University in 2019.
I was born and raised just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. While I miss home, Cleveland has a lot to offer from amazing people and food to always having something to explore. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my partner and cats (Sherlock and Watson), running, cooking, playing video or board games, or binging another tv show I can't stop watching!
Favorite Restaurant: Saucy Brew Works or Hofbrauhaus
Favorite Thing to do in Cleveland: Check out a new coffee place or restaurant and explore the hiking trails at the Cleveland MetroParks
Marnie Frost | Assistant Residential Community Director, Clarke Tower
Hi! My name is Marnie and I am the current Assistant Residential Community Director of Clarke Tower. So far I have loved this position and getting to work with such great supervisors, RAs, and residents.
I am originally from SW Michigan but graduated from Oberlin College in 2023 with a degree in Sociology (Yay NE Ohio!) At CWRU I am currently a graduate student at the Mandel School pursuing social work. In my free time, I enjoy facetiming my twin, going on runs, reading, and thrifting.
Favorite Restaurant: The Fairmount in Cleveland Heights!
Favorite Thing to do in Cleveland: Explore the metroparks! The lake and trails around the Cleveland area are amazing.
The Second Year Experience consists of four full-time professional staff members and four paraprofessional staff, who work together in paired A/RCD teams to oversee communities of 300-450 residents and between 6-12 RAs.
Nick Hanson | Residential Community Director, Carlton Road
Hello! My name is Nick Hanson (he/him) and I am the RCD for Carlton Road, aka "the top of the hill!". I earned my B.A. in Communication Studies from Baldwin Wallace University on the west side of Cleveland and my M.S. in Higher Education Administration from Florida International University in Miami. Prior to joining the Residence Life staff at CWRU, I served as a Resident Director at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, as a Residence Life Coordinator at Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa, and as an Assistant Residence Life Coordinator at FIU.
Since returning to Cleveland in 2022, I have truly enjoyed engaging with the city and everything our community has to offer. I attended over thirty Cleveland Guardians games this past season- Go Guards! I also enjoy trying out the many different great restaurants and bars around the Greater Cleveland area. In my spare time, I enjoy sim racing and hanging out with my Blue Heeler, Loki. I am also a coach for the CWRU Varsity Football Team.
Favorite Restaurant: The Winking Lizard
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Going to Cleveland Guardians games
Isabelle Bazzy | Assistant Residential Community Director, Carlton Road
Hi guys! My name is Isabelle (Izzy) Bazzy, and I’m the Assistant Residential Community Director for Carlton Road. I’m originally from Macomb, MI, but I completed my undergrad at Wayne State University in Detroit, where I earned a Bachelor's degree in Global Studies, Political Science, and French. During my time at Wayne State, I was an RA for two years before stepping away my senior year to study abroad in Tours, France.
In 2023, I moved to Cleveland to attend law school at Case. I’m currently involved with the Journal of International Law and the Yemen Accountability Project.
Outside of school and work, I love playing video games. Call of Duty: Black Ops and Overcooked are some of my favorites!
Favorite Restaurant: Sora
Favorite Thing to Do in Cleveland: Go for walks in the Cultural Gardens
Lindsey Holub | Residential Community Director, Murray Hill
Hello! My name is Lindsey Holub (she/her) and I am the RCD for the Murray Hill Community. I earned my B.S. in Mathematics from Notre Dame College where I played on their volleyball team and was a resident assistant my junior year. I gained my M.Ed in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs from Kent State University with a certificate in career and academic advising.
At Kent State I served as an Assistant Residence Hall Director for two years in Residence Life and then worked as a full-time Residence Hall Director for 1.5 years.
I was born and raised in Newton Falls, Ohio and have lived in Northeastern Ohio my whole life. Majority of my time in Ohio has been in rural areas so I am so excited to be in the city. Not only do I get to continue working in students affairs, which is my main passion, but I get to engage in the CWRU and Cleveland community. I enjoy trying new restaurants, getting coffee, going to museums, and I also still play volleyball in my free time whenever I can!
Madalyn Fox | Assistant Residential Community Director, Murray Hill
Hiya! My name is Madalyn (Maddy) Fox (she/her) and I am the ARCD for the Murray Hill community. I have been at CWRU since 2021 where I graduated Magna Cum Laude with my Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History and Political Science on the Pre-Law track in May 2024. I loved CWRU so much that I decided to stay as a Masters student in Art History and Museum Studies where I specialize in global contemporary art! During my undergrad, I served as a RA for the Carlton Road Community and worked as a Central Office Student Assistant for ResLife.
I was born and raised in Canton, OH (Home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Candy Apples from Dance Moms) and grew up going to quite a few of the Guardian's games as a kid! When I am not working with our RAs or nose deep in research at the Cleveland Museum of Art, you can find me at Lekko Coffee, doing crafts, or watching stellar movies and TV shows.
Favorite Cleveland Restaurant: Amba (or really, any of Doug Katz's restaurants!)
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Explore local farmer's markets!
Brandon Eddinger | Residential Community Director, Fayette
Hello! My name is Brandon Eddinger (he/him) and I am the RCD for Fayette. I earned my B.A. in Marketing from Hiram College in 2019 where I also served as a Resident Assistant and Orientation Leader for 3 years. I also gained my M.Ed in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs from Kent State University in 2021. In addition to gaining an M.Ed, I also earned a certificate in career/academic advising. While at KSU I served as a Graduate Assistant for 2 years within Residence Life working in the residence halls. After gaining my degree I worked at the University of Akron for a year as a Residence Life Coordinator.
I have been a NE Ohio native all my life growing up in a small town called North Jackson just west of Youngstown. I originally planned on going to school for sports management/marketing but as I progressed as a student leader in my undergrad holding multiple positions I found my passion for working in student affairs. I quickly decided to pursue a career in student affairs and it has been a blast since. I am a big sports fan and love watching the Browns/Guardians but also enjoy being a Marvel movie/comic fan. Additionally, I enjoy games and hobbies, specifically Magic: The Gathering, and play it weekly with my friends.
Favorite Cleveland Restaurant: Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse and The Melt
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Get more tattoos at my favorite tattoo shop in cleveland. And also go out and eat a variety of food!
Isaias Treviño | Assistant Residential Community Director, Fayette
Hey y'all! My name is Isaias Trevino (he/him) and I am the ARCD for Fayette House. I have been at CWRU since 2019 and I'm currently working on my M.S. in Electrical Engineering and also finished my undergraduate studies in the same field. I did tons of research as an undergrad for CWRU, Cleveland State University, and the University of Michigan. I continue to do research in circuit design for medical device applications.
I grew up in as far south as you can go Texas, my house is a 10 minute drive from the Mexican-American border! I saw snow for the first time when I came to Cleveland and I have fallen in love with the hectic weather (believe me, it's better than 100 degrees year-round). When I'm not working or researching I love checking out record shops, vintage stores, and new food in the area! I also have a geriatric English Bulldog Mix, Neo, that loves to go on walks and play fetch!
Favorite Cleveland Restaurant: Szechuan Gourmet
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Enjoy some rockin' concerts at the Grog Shop or The Agora
Daniella Parks | Residential Community Director, Noyes
Hello! My name is Daniella Parks (she/her). I serve as the Residential Community Director for Noyes, a Second Year Experience Community. I am a two-time Slippery Rock University graduate, receiving my B.A. in Exercise Science in 2020 and my M.A. in Student Affairs in Higher Education in 2022. I joined the CWRU Residence Life team in the summer of 2022 and was an RCD for CedarMagnolia before joining the Second Year Experience team! I also get to be the executive advisor for the Residence Hall Association and the National Residence Hall Honorary here at CWRU.
In my free time, I enjoy binging a new TV show, teaching dance classes, trying new recipes, or hanging out with my fur babies, Oliver Thomas and Henry James.
Favorite Restaurant: Barrio
Favorite Thing to do in Cleveland: One of my favorite things to do in Cleveland is to see a show at Playhouse Square!
Anam Javed | Assistant Residential Community Director, Noyes
Hi, I’m Anam Javed (she/her), and I’m currently the ARCD at Noyes House. I’ve been at CWRU for a year now, pursuing a Dual Degree Master’s in Social Work and Nonprofit Organizations at the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. Having completed my first year, I’m gearing up for my second year. Originally from Pakistan, I completed my undergraduate degree in Political Science and Liberal Arts. With over five years of experience working with children and youth in the education and nonprofit sectors, my current focus in Northeast Ohio continues to be on supporting local communities, especially children.
Since arriving in Cleveland, I’ve grown fond of its unpredictable weather, leisurely mornings, and beautiful autumn evenings. I’ve explored much of the area and love the city’s diversity—it really feels like home now. Although the winds can be a bit annoying at times!
In my downtime, I enjoy spending time alone, catching up on hobbies, or relaxing with close friends. I love taking long walks or going for hikes. Cleveland’s food scene has been fantastic; I’ve tried various cuisines, but Indian food is definitely my favorite.
Favorite Restaurant: La Trattoria in Little Italy or Winking lizard
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Sightseeing specifically lakeside or parks enjoying sunset.
The Upperclass Experience consists of one RCD and four ARCDs, who together oversee a community of 900-1100 residents and 20 RAs.
Matt Dvorak | Residential Community Director, UCE
Hello! My name is Matt Dvorak and I am currently the Residential Community Director for the Upperclass Experience. Previous to working in UCE, I was the Residential Community Director for Murray Hill and then prior to my time with our second year students on Murray Hill, I served in Residence Life as a graduate assistant, living in and working with our Upperclass Experience for over 4 years. I also served as the Assistant Conference Coordinator for our Office of University Housing during that time.
I triple majored as an undergraduate here at CWRU, majoring in Sociology, History, and Women's and Gender Studies. During my time as an undergraduate, I worked in numerous capacities in the Office of University Housing over the course of 4 years. I have a Masters of Science in Urban Studies, and a Graduate Certificate in Local Management from the Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Urban Studies and Public Affairs.
When I am not here at CWRU or down the street at Cleveland State, I am likely out and about enjoying the Cleveland food scene. I love Cleveland sports, and am a Fantasy Football fanatic. I've spent nearly 10 years at CWRU now, and I love being able to call Cleveland home.
Favorite Restaurant: I really go through phases with this, but right now, Washington Place Inn and L’Albatros
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Explore Cleveland’s food, coffee, and bar scenes.
Sue Kim | Assistant Residential Community Director, UCE
Hi, I am Sue Kim. It is my second year in RL team and I am grateful for joining the team again.
I graduated from University of Wisconsin for art history. Now I am currently pursuing my Juris Doctor Degree in CWRU and it is my final year in law school.
For my fun activities, I love to go hiking and running, which I do not have much time for these days in fact. Also I love traveling, exploring new cities and places. And I watch a lot of cute animal feeds on YouTube.
Favorite Restaurant: Sushi Eun or Cilantro (It is a hard choice!)
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Edgewater park. Running or enjoying the beach there is my favorite thing to do in Cleveland.
Thomas Lipker | Assistant Residential Community Director, UCE
Hello everyone! My name is Thomas Lipker and I am an Assistant Residential Community Director for the UE. I attended CWRU for my undergraduate education where I double majored in economic and music with minors in accounting and business management. I am currently pursuing my Juris Doctor Degree and a Master’s Degree in Compliance and Risk Management.
During my time at CWRU, I held multiple on-campus jobs which included working as a facilities assistant during the summers, and being a staff assistant to the music department during the academic year.
During my free time, I enjoy biking around campus, playing music and hanging out with my cat, Rocky (named after Rocky Road Ice-Cream).
Favorite Restaurant: Siam Cafe
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Walking/driving through the Cultural Gardens and going to a Guardians game.
Keno Benjamin | Assistant Residential Community Director, UCE
Hello! My name is Keno Benjamin, and I am one of the Assistant Residential Community Directors for the UCE. Before attending CWRU, I obtained my Bachelor's in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Psychology at the University of Miami(FL). I’m currently pursuing a Masters of Public Health with concentrations in Policy & Management as well as Health Promotion & Disease.
Partaking in this position is a continuation of my journey of working with Residence Life as I also worked as a Residential Assistant throughout my undergraduate experience, so I’m excited to see what awesome opportunities continue to present themselves throughout my tenure in this position.
Outside of the walls of a classroom and/or the Residence Life offices, I enjoy reading, writing, biking, listening to music, spending time with friends/family, and finding new creative adventures.
Favorite Restaurant: BRAVO! Cucina Italiana
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Listening to music while biking through the various parks Cleveland has to offer.
Emma Mitchell | Assistant Residential Community Director, UCE
Hello! My name is Emma Mitchell and I am in my second year in the Masters of Social Work program at the Mandel school here at Case with a concentration in Community Practice. During my undergraduate career, I majored in Sociology and minored in Social Work and African American Studies.
I have been an RA in the UCE community for the past 2 years. When I am not on campus I am usually enjoying the company of loved ones outdoors or at various restaurants. I also really enjoy reading, cooking, and baking!
Favorite Restaurant: Shooters on the Water
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Visit the Lake!
The Independent Living Experience consists of one Assistant Director and four GRDs, who together oversee a community of 380-500 residents.
Miquela Hampton | Graduate Resident Director, Hazel Apartments
Hi my name is Miquela! I'm from Columbus, OH but moved to Cleveland for both my undergraduate and graduate studies. I attended CWRU for my undergraduate degree where I studied nutrition and psychology. I'm in my second year of graduate school and I attend Cleveland State University in pursuit of my Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy!
During my undergraduate experience at CWRU I dedicated a large portion of my time advocating for other students through my positions in the Black Student Union and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. I also held multiple on-campus jobs including being an orientation leader, tour guide, student panelist, and many others. My path in residence life began when I became a resident assistant, and I'm now returning for my second year in this role
In my free time I like to spend time with the community at The Word Church, explore new food places throughout Cleveland, and read novels. I also like to venture out to new adventures whether that's trying a new restaurant, traveling, or going skydiving!
Favorite Restaurant: Heck's Cafe
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Going to concerts or going to the solstice steps at Lakewood Park.
Carly Snow | Graduate Resident Director, PMAs
Hello! My name is Carly Snow and I am the Graduate Resident Director for the Property Management Apartments in the Independent Living Experience. I am from the small town of Burton, Ohio about 40 minutes northeast of Cleveland. I completed my undergraduate degree in social work and criminology at Chatham University in Pittsburgh. I am currently an advanced standing student at the Mandel School at Case completing my master of social work. During my undergraduate experience I loved volunteering my time at community events and participating in our social work club and honor society.
I love to travel, and I definitely prefer the beach over the Mountains. I have been a lifeguard and aquatics supervisor for 5 years now, so I love anything to do with the water! I enjoy spending my time outside, playing with my cats and dog, and listening to live music whenever I get the chance. I am new to Case Western, but I am so excited to be a part of this community and be back home in Cleveland. If you see me around campus don’t be afraid to say hi!
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Go to the Beach or a good Browns game!
Favorite Restaurant: Condado
Alayna Johnson | Graduate Resident Director, Triangle Tower 1
Hi everyone! I’m Alayna, and I am from Canton, Michigan. I completed my undergraduate studies at Wayne State University in Detroit, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Theatre. Currently, I’m pursuing a Master of Science in Applied Anatomy at Case Western Reserve University.
My journey in Residence Life began during my sophomore year at Wayne State when I became a Resident Advisor, a role I held until I graduated. During undergrad, I was also deeply involved on campus, serving on the E-Board for the African American Psychology Student Organization and Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology.
In my free time, I love exploring new restaurants, catching the latest movies, traveling, volunteering, and playing the piano. I’m fairly new to the Cleveland area and am excited to get to know the city better.
Favorite Restaurant: Pacific East Japanese Restaurant
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Explore Downtown Cleveland
Fatimah Elghazawi | Graduate Resident Director, Triangle Tower 2
Hello! My name is Fatimah Elghazawi and I am the Graduate Resident Director for Triangle Tower 2. I grew up overseas in Cairo but was born in Cleveland, and I most certainly consider it the greatest city! I attended Denison University for undergrad and received degrees in International Studies and French. While at Denison, I was involved in Residence Life as an RA for three years! I am currently a second-year law student at Case Western Reserve University School of Law.
Other than working with the awesome crew in Residence Life, I’m actively involved at the law school. I’m President of our Muslim Student Organization, I’m a member of the Case Western Law Review, and I take part in volunteer efforts supporting refugees and immigrants in the region.
When I’m not in class or working, you’ll find me baking, reading a novel, crafting up a new project, or planning my next trip abroad. I’m a huge coffee fan, so I love exploring coffee shops around Cleveland as well!
Favorite Restaurant: L’Albatros (honorary mentions: coffee at Roasted or Dahlia Coffee, dessert at The Vegan Doughnut Co.)
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: going to Guardians games and exploring the Metroparks with my shih-poo, Tut.
The Office of Residence Life couldn't function without the stellar support of our administrative staff!
Kim Blackmon | Administrative Assistant
Hi, my name is Kimberly Blackmon and I am the Administrative Assistant for Residence Life. I have been with the department for 35 years! Yes, 35 years! I enjoy my job because I get to interact with so many staff and students within and outside of the department. I have found the key to my job is being able to work with so many different types of personalities and being able to build individual relationships with all of them. This has made my job both fun and rewarding. I'm always here ready to listen and assist whenever I can. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends.
Favorite Restaurant: Oaks and Embers
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Plan a party
Gerri Collier | Department Assistant
Hello, my name is Gerri Collier and I started working at CWRU in Residence Life in 2014. I love working at CWRU and I love working with, as I call them, “my scholars”. Here in Residence Life, our goal is to help students transition from being away from home, in most cases, for the first time; into college, and help them achieve their academic goals by helping direct them to overcome their hurdles. The scholars keep me on my toes as I watch them go from undergraduates to flourishing young adults who have become graduates and leave home for a second time.
I think Cleveland is the best place on earth to live; the people are friendly and helpful. I love the four seasons that we have here in Cleveland, but; fall is my favorite season. I've lived in numerous states but I always come home to Cleveland where my heart and family are located.
Favorite Restaurant: Angie's Soul Food
Favorite thing to do in Cleveland: Host gatherings with family and friends