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2024 Visiting Committee

Members of the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences Visiting Committee provide valuable guidance and support, leveraging their expertise and diverse skills to advance the college’s mission and goals.

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Marlena Bravender

View Profile: Marlena Bravender

Professional Highlights

  • Leadership Role in Educational Technology: As the Interim Director of Academic Technologies at Northeastern University, Bravender leads initiatives to integrate technology into education and develops faculty in its use.
  • Extensive Experience in Instructional Design: With over 20 years of experience, Bravender is a seasoned expert in instructional design, particularly in the areas of game-based learning and simulation-based decision-making.
  • Global Impact and Recognition: Bravender has consulted internationally to improve instructional technology practices and has received the National Education Association Learning and Leadership Grant, recognizing her contributions to the field.
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Javier Cardenas

View Profile: Javier Cardenas

Professional Highlights

  • Leadership in Sports Neurology: As a Professor and Chief of the Division of Sports Neurology at West Virginia University, Cardenas is a leader in the field of sports medicine, specializing in the treatment and prevention of traumatic brain injuries, particularly those related to sports.
  • Expert in Concussion Care: Cardenas is a key figure in concussion research and care, serving as a Senior Medical Advisor for the NFL's Concussion Protocol and advising organizations like the NCAA and USA Football.
  • Recognition for Contributions to Concussion Safety: His significant contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Arizona State University's Young Alumni award and the American Academy of Neurology Advocate of the Year award.
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Paulette Dilworth

View Profile: Paulette Dilworth

Professional Highlights

  • Leadership in Access and Engagement: Currently serves as Vice President for Access and Engagement at UAB, spearheading initiatives to support success for all students, faculty, and staff.
  • Award-Winning Contributions to Education: Recognized with prestigious accolades such as the National Council for Social Studies Exemplary Research Award and the Kipchoge Kirkland Teaching for Social Justice Award.
  • Extensive Scholarly Impact: Has an extensive number of publications and editorial contributions in the field of social education.
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Dan Mahony

View Profile: Dan Mahony

Professional Highlights

  • Distinguished Leadership in Higher Education: Dr. Mahony currently serves as the President of the Southern Illinois University System. 
  • Significant Academic Contributions: With over 60 journal publications and a co-authored book, "Economics of Sport," Dr. Mahony has made substantial contributions to the field of sport management. His research has been recognized with prestigious awards like the Earle F. Zeigler Award.
  • Recognition and Honors: Dr. Mahony's accomplishments have been acknowledged through various honors and awards, including West Virginia University's Legacy Award and the Order of West Range from his fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha. 
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Natasha Oakes

View Profile: Natasha Oakes

Professional Highlights

  • Leadership in Collegiate Athletics: Serves as Deputy Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) at West Virginia University, overseeing governance, compliance, and DEI initiatives within WVU Athletics.
  • Influence in Athletic Governance: Represents WVU on Big 12 and NCAA governance groups, contributing to policy and decision-making at the conference and national levels.
  • Commitment to Professional Development: A graduate of the Dr. Charles Whitcomb Leadership Institute.
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Jackie Riggleman

View Profile: Jackie Riggleman

Professional Highlights

  • Leadership in Sustainability and Project Management: Serves as a Project Manager with the Canopy Team, focusing on sustainability initiatives and strategic oversight.
  • Notable Achievements in Sports Facility Operations: Played a key role in opening Monongalia County Ballpark and oversaw major renovations and business planning for the Pittsburgh Pirates’ facilities as Director of Facility Operations and Strategy.
  • Recognition in Major League Baseball: Recipient of the MLB Katie Feeney Award for her exceptional contributions to the sports industry.
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Tom Williams

View Profile: Tom Williams

Professional Highlights

  • Transformational Leadership in Education: As the Superintendent of Kanawha County Schools, Dr. Williams has overseen significant initiatives, such as the major renovation of St. Albans High School. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the district through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Extensive Experience in Education: With over 40 years of service to Kanawha County Schools, Dr. Williams has held various roles, from classroom teacher to district leadership. This diverse experience provides him with a deep understanding of the educational landscape and the needs of students and staff.
  • Academic Achievement and Recognition: Dr. Williams holds an EdD in Educational Leadership from West Virginia University. His accomplishments in public school administration have been recognized at both the high school and district levels.

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