Zachary Jenkins, MA – Director
Meet the driving force behind our mission to bring career and college access to first-generation college students – Zachary Jenkins. Being a former HATS student, Zac has a passion for the program. He graduated from Hannan High School in 2013 and comes from humble beginnings but works to do great things. He collaborates with K-12, higher education, private industry, and government to bring opportunities to students. As the director, he is hands-on with creating and implementing curriculum and activities. While Zac brings a youthful approach to the position, he has the experience and knowledge to provide dynamic and tailored services to students. He worked his way up the ladder to become director, and he is dedicated to inspiring students to reach their full potential. Zac is currently working on his Ed.D in Curriculum and Instruction at Marshall University. His background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Political Science with a minor in Spanish from studying abroad in Madrid, Spain. He also has a Master of Arts in Psychology. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, philanthropic work, listening to music, being in nature, and spending time with family and friends. Join us in celebrating Zac and his devotion to breaking generational barriers for first-generation students. Zac can be reached at 304-696-2201 or zachary.jenkins@marshall.edu.
Shannon Zornes-Hedge, RBA – Administrative Assistant
Meet the administrator behind the HATS program. Shannon is the Administrative Assistant for the HATS program and is an integral part of everything that the HATS program accomplishes. Shannon has a strong focus and attention to detail that is seen in the quality of our program. She has been a dedicated member of the HATS program for nearly twenty years. Shannon is passionate about nurturing first-generation students. She is an active listener who cares about developing strong relationships with students in the program. Her best efforts are seen when she collaborates with on-campus and off-campus businesses that bring amazing opportunities to our students. She goes above and beyond to manage student records, update digital platforms, and plan events.
Shannon graduated in 2004 from Ashland Community and Technical College with an associate degree in office systems. Shannon earned her regent’s bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Marshall in 2014. As a low-income, first-generation college student, she understands the challenges HATS students face as they pursue their college dreams. Shannon enjoys spending time with her three children, her husband, and her pets. Shannon has a newfound passion for folk and country music and would love to hear your favorite artist or song. Join us in celebrating Shannon and her dedication to student success. Shannon can be reached at 304-696-2941 or zornes@marshall.edu.
Annika Bruce, BA – College Access Advisor
Meet Annika Bruce, our College Access Advisor for Mason County, CK Middle School, and Juniors and Seniors at Spring Valley High School. She’s a recent graduate from Denison University in Ohio majoring in English (Writing) and Education Studies. Annika has a passion for Appalachia and is excited to help change the trajectory of first-generation college students’ lives. She is an advocate for diversity and inclusion. Annika is excited to bring career and college exploration to students. With a passion for fostering success, Annika is thrilled to start this new chapter. In her spare time, Annika enjoys reading, watching TV, and spending time with her family and cats. Let’s give a warm welcome to Annika Bruce! Annika can be reached at 304-696-3259 or bruce35@marshall.edu.
Taylor Scites, MSW – College Access Advisor
Meet Taylor Scites, our newest College Access Advisor for Wayne County. He recently graduated from the Masters of Social Work program at West Virginia University. Taylor is a TRIO alum, a former member of the Marshall Upward Bound program, and WVU’s Student Support Services. He strongly advocates for first-generation students who want to pursue higher education. Taylor is also passionate about helping people become their best selves. In his free time, he likes to relax with his cats, bake, read, and play video games like Pokémon, Apex Legends, Overwatch, and strategy games. Taylor can be reached at 304-696-3287 or taylor.scites@marshall.edu.
