Welcome new staff members to Appalachian State University's Reich College of Education (RCOE). Read on to learn about everyone and why they joined the staff at App State.
Ana Creighton
James Center for Student Success and Advising - University Program Associate
Creighton is a key member of the James Center team, responsible for managing and supporting a range of programming and operational activities. Her role involves maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant policies, procedures, and technologies, as well as managing financial records, securing necessary resources, and leading teams. She also ensures the smooth implementation of James Center initiatives and collaborates with staff to enhance the Center’s impact and effectiveness.
Creighton earned a Bachelor of Social Science in psychology from Minuto de Dios University in Bogota, Colombia.
Prior to App State, Creighton was a basic skills instructor at Wilkes Community College.
Why Appalachian?
“I chose to work at Appalachian State University because it’s a key institution in the region with a stunning location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The blend of a professional and familiar environment fosters both growth and a sense of community. AppState’s strong focus on career development aligns perfectly with my goals, offering numerous opportunities for advancement while being part of a respected and supportive institution.”
Sonia Dardon
Office of the Dean - Administrative Support Specialist
Dardon’s responsibilities include providing administrative assistance to the Assistant Dean for Partnerships and Innovation
Dardon earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Galileo University in Guatemala, and a Master of Advanced Studies in social security from Pablo de Olavide in Seville, Spain.
Prior to App State, Daron was the executive director of social benefits for the Guatemala Institute of Social Security.
Why Appalachian?
“Appalachian University offers a supportive environment for staff development, diverse academic programs, and a strong commitment to sustainability, plus a vibrant community and beautiful mountain setting.”
Emma Hatfield-Sidden ’08 ’19
Office of Field Experiences - Clinical Field Experiences Supervisor
As a clinical educator, Hatfield-Sidden attends supervisor meetings with clinical educators, checks in regularly with student teachers and principals, and grades and provides feedback on weekly assignments. She conducts at least three formal observations for each student teacher and completes three Certificate of Teaching Capacity (CTC) rubrics as well as an Educator Dispositions Assessment for each student teacher. Additionally, she develops growth plans as needed and shares them with the Director of Clinical Education, leads seminars and regional meetings, and provides leadership and support to the Office of Field Experiences as requested by the Director of Clinical Education.
Hatfield-Sidden earned a Bachelor of Science in special education and a Master of School Administration from Appalachian State University. She is currently enrolled in the Ed.D. in educational leadership program at App State.
Prior to joining the Office of Field Experiences, Hatfield-Sidden served as the principal for the App State Academy at Elkin laboratory school. She brings experience as an exceptional children’s coordinator in Catawba County Schools, an assistive technology coordinator in Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools, and an exceptional children’s teacher in Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools and Wilkes County Schools.
Why Appalachian?
“App State has been there for me in so many ways throughout my educational and professional journey! I have made so many amazing memories while furthering my knowledge and skills. I would not be the educator I am without Appalachian!”
Alexis Manus
Department of Counseling, Family Therapy, and Higher Education - Administrative Support Specialist
Manus’s responsibilities focuses on the management of the department’s budget, as well as organizing and analyzing data and record management.
She earned a B.A. in psychology from Queens University of Charlotte.
Prior to this role, Manus worked in the Office of Admissions and Annual Giving Office at App State.
Why Appalachian?
“Boone is a beautiful place to be. App State is a great employer with great students. I love the school spirit and "bigger college" culture since I attended a smaller/private institution.”
Kathy Rathbone
Office of the Dean - Administrative Support Specialist
Rathbone’s responsibilities include supporting the associate dean, budgetary support, and AP&P and PEC communication, review, and distribution.
Rathbone earned a Bachelors of Science from Centenary University, leadership certification from Rutgers University, and contract negotiation certifications from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Rathbone has worked at M&M Mars as a contract negotiator. She was also a librarian at an elementary school and executive director at a non-profit organization that provided leadership training to middle and high school students.
Why Appalachian?
“Appalachian is a staple in this area, and I knew when I moved here it would be a part of my life somehow.”
Donna Starks
James Center for Student Success and Advising - Director
Starks’s responsibilities include leading the collaborative and strategic efforts of the James Center for Student Success and Advising, realizing the goals through direct programming, and making operational decisions that the greatest impact on student development and success.
Starks earned a Bachelor of Science in child and family studies from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of Social Work with a clinical emphasis on children and families from the University of Missouri.
Starks comes to App State with 18 years of experience in higher education, specifically in TRIO Student Support Services. Prior to moving into higher education, she worked in several K-12 school districts as a school social worker.
Why Appalachian?
“After living in the Midwest my entire life, it’s truly an adventure to live somewhere so different and beautiful. App State offers an abundance of resources for the success of students and the well-being of staff. The people here genuinely care about one another and there is a culture of App State pride that is impressive. The campus is stunning, the people are fantastic, and the reputation of the University is undeniable. I wanted to be a part of it!”
Micah Turner ’23
Office of the Dean - Administrative Support Specialist
Turner serves as the lead receptionist for the Office of the Dean. She also manages the building facilities, phone directory support, and copier reporting.
Turner earned an A.A. from Guildford Technical Community College and a B.S. in child development from Appalachian State University.
Prior to joining the Office of the Dean, Turner was a preschool teacher at the App State Child Development Center.
Why Appalachian?
“Growing up my family always visited Boone, as this is the place my parents met during their time at App State. I formed a love for the beauty of this town and the atmosphere of this university so I made it my mission to attend school here. Once I graduated, I couldn't bring myself to part from this wonderful university, so I began my career path at Appalachian State University.”
Emily Wiseman ’14
Office of Field Experiences - Clinical Internship Specialist
Wiseman assists students in obtaining placements for their student teaching experience.
Wiseman earned a B.S. in criminal justice from Appalachian State University. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree in instructional design.
Prior to Appalachian, Wiseman was an elementary school teacher for several years.
Why Appalachian?
“I came to Appalachian State as a transfer student and instantly felt comfortable on campus. The sense of belonging and community here is unmatched. I am happy to be back!”