Exploratory Studies

• Email Dr. Francis Atuahene
• Lawrence Center, Room 222
• 610-436-3505

Bio

Dr. Francis Atuahene is an Associate Professor and Director of Exploratory Studies. As an academic advisor, Dr. Atuahene believes the first year in Exploratory Studies remains a critical pillar of student’s personal growth and academic success. Dr. Atuahene advises students to take advantage of the available academic support services and campus resources; develop great learning and study habits; find friends who will uplift and contribute positively to your thinking, but above all, get involved and have fun! Dr. Atuahene earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Higher Education Administration and Policy and a cognate in College Student Personnel. He earned a Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA), and Master of Public Administration (MPA) all from the Ohio University. He also received a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) degree in Political Science with Philosophy from the University of Ghana.

Schedule an advising appointment with Dr. Atuahene

• Email Dr. Ann Colgan
• Lawrence Center, Room 222
• 610-436-3505

Bio

Dr. Ann Lieberman Colgan is an Associate Professor and Director of the Liberal Studies Program. As an Exploratory Studies advisor, Dr. Colgan uses dialogic advising to understand her students as completely as possible. She works with students to explore their strengths and interests, and occasionally shares her own WCU undergraduate experiences. She wants students and families to recognize that success looks different for different individuals. Dr. Colgan earned her Doctor of Education Degree from Gratz College in Jewish Education and Jewish History. She also received her Master of Education degree in Secondary Education: Social Studies from Rivier University, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Anthropology from West Chester University of Pennsylvania.

Schedule an advising appointment with Dr. Colgan

• Email Dr. Juanita Wooten
• Lawrence Center, Room 222
• 610-436-3505

Bio

Dr. Juanita Wooten serves as an Exploratory Studies faculty advisor. She provides proactive advising to first-year students by supporting and guiding them toward identifying their academic and career goals. Dr. Juanita Wooten has worked for several years as an educator and administrator in higher education. Dr. Wooten earned a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in Higher Education Leadership from Wilmington University, Delaware. She earned a Master of Science (MSA) degree in Human Services Administration from Audrey Cohen College, New York, and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Psychology from SUNY Plattsburgh, New York.

Schedule an advising appointment with Dr. Wooten

• Email Dr. Courtney Lloyd
• Lawrence Center, Room 222
• 610-436-3505

Bio

Dr. Courtney Lloyd is an Assistant Professor and an Exploratory Studies faculty advisor. Through conversations with her advisees, Dr. Lloyd assists students to realize their academic potential and guides them in the decision-making process when choosing a major. With 13 years of experience working with WCU students, she is honest and transparent with each student that enters her office, but that is only because she cares about student success!  Dr. Lloyd earned a Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) and Master of Public Administration (MPA) from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. She also earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the Pennsylvania State University.

Schedule an advising appointment with Dr. Lloyd.

• Email Mrs. Linda Missanelli
• Lawrence Center, Room 222
• 610-436-3505

Bio

Mrs. Linda Missanelli is the Clerical Office Support Staff for both Exploratory Studies and Liberal Studies programs. She has a great understanding of the operations and activities in Exploratory Studies. As the first point of contact in our office, Mrs. Missanelli provides incredible support to faculty and staff to enhance our student success initiatives. Mrs. Missanelli’s advice to Exploratory Students is to go to class, study and get involved. Call 610-436-3505 to speak with Mrs. Missanelli about advising appointment. You may email Mrs. Missanelli at LMissanelli@wcupa.edu

• Email Ms. Catherine Purcell
• Lawrence Center, Room 222
• 610-436-3505

Bio

Ms. Catherine Purcell is the Student Success Coordinator for University College. As the Student Success Coordinator, Catherine seeks to help students redefine success for themselves, encourages students to set goals to stay motivated and organized, and assists students in the uncovering and utilization of campus resources and inherent strengths. Catherine is a proud WCU Alum, having received her Master’s in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs in May 2022. She also holds a Bachelor of Music from Catholic University in Washington, DC.

Schedule an advising appointment with Ms. Catherine Purcell