Staff
ELSS Staff
DirectorMonica Lawson
Monica Lawson is a visionary leader. Her work is transformative, in no small part, because she leads from the inside out, drawing on an abundant well of spirituality, creativity, and love. She is proud of her work with first-generation students--beginning with TRIO-Student Support Services and evolving to the suite of programs within Engaged Learning and Student Support (ELSS). Students feel valued in her presence because she recognizes their potential and creates space that engenders love and care. As a testament to the strength of her work and the quality of her relationships, many students remain connected to Ms. Lawson and her office, citing participating in meaningful learning experiences and being affirmed of their self-worth and brilliance as highly impactful. Monica thrives on helping young adults take steps toward creating lives that are good for them and their families, and she finds joy in celebrating their accomplishments and wins.
As a leader, she aims to recognize the possibilities in all people and situations. She is skilled at casting vision, and is particularly interested in working with people who find resonance in that vision. She holds a Master's degree in School Psychology from The University of Maryland, College Park and a Bachelor's degree in History/Politics from Drexel University. She recognizes that in order to be an effective education leader, she needs to engage in a continual process of learning and growth, and encourages her students and staff to do the same.
Assistant DirectorLisa Nardi
In cooperation with a small team of faculty and staff, Lisa Nardi founded the Faculty Think Tank and Scholars Studio. Developed to offer transformational learning opportunities, the sister programs provide a communal space for collaboration, reflection, and transdisciplinary learning. Using her strengths as a strategist, creative thinker, and qualitative researcher, she helps faculty draw on their passions to shape problem-based learning experiences that explore a range of issues, from mass incarceration and gender identity to mindfulness and the meaning of freedom. She has presented findings from Scholars Studio and the Faculty Think Tank at a variety of national and regional conferences.
Her work is informed by several years of teaching composition, creative writing, literature, and ESL at a community college. She holds a B.A. in English from The University of Findlay, an M.F.A. in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts, and a Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership with a concentration in Curriculum Theory and Development from the University of Maryland-College Park. She is a qualitative researcher with interests in transformational pedagogy, contemplative education, and decolonizing research methodologies. Her dissertation is a phenomenological inquiry into the pedagogy of bridging in Scholars Studio. She stays grounded with a steady practice of running, yoga, and photography.
Counseling Services SpecialistPatience Amankwa
Patience offers a unique approach to academic counseling and advising that emphasizes empowerment. She encourages students to know their academic plans and degree requirements, and she connects them with academic, mental health, and financial resources. The daughter of West African immigrants, she is tuned into the importance of honoring cultural diversity and acknowledging the dignity and worth of every person. She strives to help people replace the notion of "tolerating" difference with an attitude of accepting and embracing other cultures. Patience received her B.S in Social Work from Bowie State University, M.S.W. in Social Work from New York University, and she is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Morgan State University. Her academic interests include student engagement, performance, and persistence. In her free time, Patience enjoys music, film, and television.
Operations SpecialistQuentin Braswell
Quentin oversees the operations of Bulldog Scholars Academy and Operation Navigation. Having participated in Bulldog Scholars Academy and served as a mentor, senior mentor, and resident director in the Academy, he brings a range of perspectives and experiences with him. Quentin received his B.S. in Business Management from Bowie State University where he learned how to effectively work in teams, set goals and help people realize their potential--all important aspects of his current position. As a student, he joined Omega Psi Phi fraternity and Men of Ignite. These organizations instilled in him the importance of community and giving back. Whether distributing resources to communities in need or holding space for Black men to express themselves, he has been struck by not only the power of giving, but the spark it ignites in others who are, in turn, inspired to give back.
Program Administrative SpecialistAriel Walker
Ariel Walker is a dynamic woman whose educational journey and career path have been defined by a diverse range of experiences and a passionate pursuit of her interests. In her current role, she makes a meaningful impact by supporting students in their academic journeys and helping to create an environment that fosters learning and growth.
Ariel embarked on her academic journey at Bowie State University, graduating in 2015 with a B.S. in Social Work. This initial step laid the foundation for improving the lives of others through social and community engagement. Ariel’s journey took a turn when she decided to explore the world of fashion merchandising. In 2021, she earned an A.A.S degree in Fashion Merchandising from the University of the District of Columbia. This marked the beginning of her journey into the exciting and creative realm of the fashion industry. Committed to honing her expertise in fashion, Ariel continued her education by pursuing a Master of Professional Studies degree in Fashion Merchandising and Retail Management from the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (LIM College), which she successfully completed in 2022.
Ariel’s multi-faceted journey is a testament to her passion for learning, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence. With her solid educational background, extensive experiences, and her role in student support at BSU, Ariel stands as an inspiring example of the power of pursuing one’s passions, embracing change, and dedicating oneself to the betterment of others.