Meet the Student Support Services Staff

Bonnie is the Interim Director of Student Support Services. She began working with the Student Support Services Program as a counselor in July 2005. Prior to being the director/counselor of the SSS Program, she worked as a residential, outpatient, and school-based therapist. Bonnie is a graduate of Marshall where she completed a BA in Counseling as well as a MA in Mental Health Counseling. Bonnie is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Approved Licensed Professional Supervisor (ALPS) for the state of WV.

“Being a first generation college student and TRiO participant, I feel honored to have the opportunity to help students utilize their potential to reach their goals and succeed in their future endeavors.”

My name is Sarah Stough, and am currently a Counselor with Student Support Services (SSS) at Marshall University (MU). I have a B.A. in Psychology, an M.A. in Student Affairs Counseling, and have begun coursework towards an Ed.S. in Leadership Studies. I've held positions within Student Affairs for the past 11 years and employed with Marshall for 7 of those.  At MU, I worked for the University College as a Developmental Advising Specialist for 2 years, then moved on to becoming a TRIO professional. As a Counselor for SSS since 2005, I have encountered ample experiences in enhancing student development. I have been able to provide support, resources, personal, career, financial, and academic counseling to at risk students geared at improving their college experience. As a First-Generation, Appalachian college student, I identify with the personal and academic struggles our students face, in working towards becoming successful. I look forward everyday to providing an opportunity to assist in the achievements of each one.

JR Harris is a counselor in the Student Support Services program. JR first started working for Student Support Services in December 2009. Before coming into the SSS program, JR worked as a recruiting coordinator for Marshall University by recruiting incoming freshman and transfer students.  JR graduated with his B.A. in Exercise Physiology in 2005 and also completed his M.A. in Counseling in 2009. JR is a licensed school counselor for the state of West Virginia.

“Being a first generation and low income student raised by a single mother, I can relate and understand the hurdles that stand in front of our students. Not having the guidance, resources, support or encouragement to know what to do when faced with challenges can be the number #1 reason students cannot complete their education. It’s my duty and honor to give them my full time, attention, and resources for them to succeed throughout life. Each student deserves equal and quality assistance from Student Support Services and I pledge my all to provide that to them."

 Beretta G. Aikin, Program Assistant for Student Support Services, graduated from Marshall University with her first Associate Degree in Administrative Assistant Technology with a focus in Legal in May of 2003 and earned her second Associate Degree in Legal Assistant in May of 2004.  She has been working for SSS since September of 2006.  Beretta’s background in SSS and the TRiO family isn’t limited to being a staff member.  She is an Alumna of Upward Bound, was a Summer Resident Advisor for Upward Bound for five consecutive years (her last two years as Head Female Advisor) and is an Alumna of Marshall University’s Student Support Services.  She is very passionate about the TRiO community and hopes she can give back to the TRiO students as much as she has received.