ISSC staff directory

Meet the dedicated staff of the International Students and Scholars Center (ISSC) at Arizona State University, here to support and guide you throughout your global Sun Devil journey.

Holly Singh, Assistant Vice President

Holly Singh

Assistant Vice President

Hometown: New Delhi, India and Valparaiso, Indiana

Year joined the ISSC: 2015

Language(s) spoken: English, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu

Professional background: I have been in the international education field for over 30 years, including my days as an international student!

Education background: Bachelor's and master's degrees from Valparaiso University in Indiana.

Fun fact: I love to travel and meet new people!

Drew Ross, Director, International Student Advising

Drew Ross

Director, International Student Advising

Hometown: Toronto, Canada and West Palm Beach, Florida

Year joined the ISSC: 2016

Professional background: Since completing a master’s degree in international education and teaching abroad in American Samoa for three years, I have enjoyed supporting the academic, transitional and integration journey of all ASU international students.

Education background: BFA from New York University, MA from Monterey Institute of International Studies, EdD from Arizona State University.

Fun fact: I love extreme sports like bungee jumping and skydiving!

Cassandra Clark, Assistant Director, International Student Advising

Cassandra Clark

Assistant Director, International Student Advising

Hometown: Keene, New Hampshire

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Professional background: I have been working in international education since 2011 and specifically in the area of student and scholar advising since 2015.

Education background: Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Master’s degree in Global Leadership.

Fun fact: I grew up in a military family and my mom’s first station was at Luke AFB here in AZ when I was 9; I’m excited now to have come back to AZ as an adult and make new memories.

Cynthia Bills, Manager, International Student Advising

Cynthia Bills

Manager, International Student Advising

Hometown: Perry, Iowa

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: English, fluent French, basic German, and basic Spanish

Professional background: I have been teaching and supporting international students for over 20 years working in a multitude of educational and professional industries.

Education background: B.A. in French, minor in Linguistics from University of Arizona, M.A. in French from University of Iowa and M.A. in English from Université de Poitiers, France.

Fun fact: I have bilingual children with dual citizenship, am passionate about languages and international food, and love science fiction.

Kenia Farias, Manager, International Student Advisor

Kenia Farias

Manager, International Student Advisor

Hometown: Ojo De Agua Sam Telmo, Mexico

Year joined the ISSC: 2023

Language(s) spoken: Spanish and English

Professional background: Prior to working at ISSC, I gained experience at the Social Security Administration for the U.S. Federal Government and at an international immigration law firm before transitioning to ASU. I have a passion for working with international students and providing immigration advisory.

Education background: Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a Minor in Religious Studies.

Fun fact: I've swam with sharks in the Caribbean sea.

Andrew Conlogue, Senior International Student Advisor

Andrew Conlogue

Senior International Student Advisor

Hometown: Sierra Vista, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2025

Language(s) spoken: English, Intermediate Spanish

Professional background: I’ve worked in international education, in both advising and admission roles, for all three Arizona state schools, as well as schools in Pennsylvania. I most recently worked at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh before returning to Arizona.

Education background: Bachelor’s in Philosophy, Politics, Economics and Law (PPEL), Master’s in International Security Studies

Fun fact: My great grandmother Antonia attended ASU in the early 1900s, when it was a teacher’s college. It wasn’t even named ASU yet - at that time it was called the Tempe Normal School!

Karissa Bowers, International Student Advisor

Karissa Bowers

International Student Advisor

Hometown: Tucson, AZ

Year joined the ISSC: 2024

Language(s) spoken: English, learning Arabic

Professional background: I am new to the field of Education and excited to learn more about supporting international students.

Education background: I have a Bachelor’s Degree in History, Arabic, and Middle Eastern and North African Studies from the University of Arizona.

Fun fact: I am obsessed with crochet!

Angel Caldera, International Student Advisor

Angel Caldera

International Student Advisor

Hometown: Tucson, AZ

Year joined the ISSC: 2023

Language(s) spoken: Fluent in English & Spanish

Professional background: I have been working with students for several years now in different University Housing Departments at Arizona State University and University of Central Florida. I am interested in the many different ways I can support students beyond student housing now in my role at the ISSC.

Education background: B.S in Architecture at Arizona State University

Fun fact: I have an obsession for ABBA and Mamma Mia 1 & 2. Dream trip includes visiting Greece.

Sara Laplanche Danache, International Student Advisor

Sara Laplanche Danache

International Student Advisor

Hometown: Brooklyn , NY

Year joined the ISSC: 2024

Language(s) spoken: English, fluent in French and Haitian creole, and basic Spanish.

Professional background: I have been working with students for several years now from University Housing Departments and Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University

Education background: B.A in Chemistry and minor in languages (French and Spanish) from St. John Fisher University. I also have a master’s in Public administration from Long Island University (Brooklyn campus).

Fun fact: I love to travel, meet new people, go to restaurants, museums, historical places, botanical gardens and beaches.

Lori Threlkeld, International Student Advisor

Lori Threlkeld

International Student Advisor

Hometown: Yuma, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2023

Language(s) spoken: English and Spanish

Professional background: I have been a Massage Therapist for 20 years, within that time I have worked in healthcare, Immigration, substitute teaching, and a business owner. I have a strong dedication in helping our diverse community.

Education background: Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Wellness from Arizona State University

Fun fact: I enjoy trail running, hiking, spur of the moment adventures with my 2 daughters and eating new foods. I am little but mighty!

Riaz Shah, International Student Advisor

Riaz Shah

International Student Advisor

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2014

Language(s) spoken: English, Urdu, Punjab and can understand Hindi

Professional background: I have worked with ISSC for the past seven years. In my current role as an international student advisor, I love to support and provide service to students who are attending ASU from another country.

Education background: Bachelor’s degree.

Fun fact: I love watching action-packed movies and eating spicy BBQ.

Pon Sullivan, International Student Advisor

Pon Sullivan

International Student Advisor

Hometown: Surat Thani and Bangkok, Thailand

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: Thai, English

Education background: Political Science-International Relations, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

Fun fact: I enjoy hiking, playing tennis, boxing, rowing, and spending time with my daughters (18 & 14 years old). Nature photography is my way of meditation and de-stressing.

Xiang Jin, International Student Services Coordinator

Xiang Jin

International Student Services Coordinator

Hometown: Lianyungang, China

Year joined the ISSC: 2024

Language(s) spoken: Mandarin, English

Professional background: I used to be a practicum student and student worker at the ASU International Students and Scholars Center, where I first became involved with immigration issues related to international students. After graduation, I went through a long job search process and finally returned to the place where my dreams began. This is my third time crossing paths with the ISSC.

Education background: MA in Higher and Postsecondary Education at ASU, BS in Surveying Engineering Technology at the University of Maine.

Fun fact: I initially chose the education field because, in 2017, I returned to China to become a volunteer teacher, an experience that made me enjoy interacting with students. However, after studying Higher and Postsecondary Education for a semester, I realized this major wasn't directly related to teaching positions. Despite this, I decided to complete my studies, and now I genuinely love my job.

Kim Rivera, International Student Services Coordinator

Kim Rivera

International Student Services Coordinator

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2025

Language(s) spoken: English, Spanish

Professional background: As a student worker, I served as a Summer Program Assistant for TRIO Upward Bound which encompassed serving as a residential assistant, tutor, and mentor for students. Before joining the ISSC, I worked as a staff member at the Experience Center in Financial Services. During that time, my previous department allowed me to “stretch” to the ISSC and simultaneously I fulfilled my summer graduate practicum requirement. I loved my time at the ISSC and decided to ultimately return as an International Student Services Coordinator.

Education background: Bachelor’s in Political Science with a minor in Justice Studies and a certificate in Socio-legal Studies, Master’s in Higher and Postsecondary Education

Fun fact: I love traveling, exploring museums, visiting new coffee shops, reading, and taking walks.

Daniel Hoyle, Senior Director, International Student and Scholar Experience

Daniel Hoyle

Senior Director, International Student and Scholar Experience

Hometown: Clinton, Maryland

Year joined the ISSC: 2015

Language(s) spoken: English and Mandarin Chinese

Professional background: I have been supporting students for over 10 years. Prior to coming to ASU, I worked for the Graduate School at Valparaiso University where I worked in international admissions and academic services.

Education background: Bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University-Idaho and master's degree from Valparaiso University.

Fun fact: I like spicy food.

Joelle Zlaket, Assistant Director, Sponsored Student Initiatives

Joelle Zlaket

Assistant Director, Sponsored Student Initiatives

Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2023

Language(s) spoken: English and Arabic

Professional background: My experience has been centered around education, cross sector partnerships, and professional development. I worked in Beirut, Lebanon in the non-profit sector supporting various NGOs and served as a consultant for a few independent initiatives related to the environment and reforestation. Before joining ISSC, I was working at Arizona State University in International Admissions supporting MENA and sponsored students in the admissions process.

Education background: Political Science BA with an International Certificate from Arizona State University

Fun fact: I love to travel and meet new people. I am a history fan who danced Flamenco competitively for 5 years and studied vocal performance.

Janice Al-Delaimi, Sponsored Student Advisor

Janice Al-Delaimi

Sponsored Student Advisor

Hometown: Tucson, AZ

Year joined the ISSC: 2024

Language(s) spoken: Fluent in English and Spanish, conversational Arabic

Professional background: Having lived abroad for 13 years, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in diverse cultural environments, which has enriched both my personal and professional life. With a background in banking and finance, my career at Arizona State University began in the Experience Center - Financial Services, where I developed valuable skills in student services and financial aid. I later transitioned to the role of Sponsored Student Advisor at the International Students and Scholars Center (ISSC), where I am able to combine my financial expertise with my dedication to supporting international students.

Education background: I hold several professional licenses.

Fun fact: Being multicultural, I learned to appreciate music and food from different cultures at a young age. Whether it’s discovering new genres or trying out a unique dish, I’m always excited to immerse myself in diverse experiences. Traveling is another of my biggest passions, and I believe that embracing new cultures and experiences truly enriches life.

Rozita Smith, Associate Director, International Student Experience and Retention

Rozita Smith

Associate Director, International Student Experience and Retention

Hometown: Malaysia

Year joined the ISSC: 2017

Language(s) spoken: Malay, Indonesian, Kadazandusun and English

Professional background: I have been supporting international students since January 2008 starting as a student worker. I moved to ASU in September 2017 from Emporia State University. I previously worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor for seven years at mental health and rehabilitation centers both in Malaysia and the U.S.

Education background: I have earned a Bachelor of Education in guidance and counseling from Indonesia, a Master of Science in mental health counseling from Emporia State University, and a Master of Education in learning design and technologies from Arizona State University.

Fun fact: I enjoy watching comedy movies, gardening, playing guitar and eating spicy food.

Ya Hu, Manager, International Engineering Student Experience

Ya Hu

Manager, International Engineering Student Experience

Hometown: Chengdu, China

Year joined the ISSC: 2023

Language(s) spoken: Mandarin, English

Professional background: I worked as an Academic Advisor, an International Student Services Coordinator, and a Study Abroad Program Coordinator at University of Electronic Science and Technology of China for 6 years before I came to the U.S.. I joined ASU in 2019 as an Academic Success Advisor at ECEE advising online students. Later, I joined SEMTE as Academic Success Advisor, Sr. advising undergraduate students, and later, graduate students.

Education background: B.A. in Administrative Management, M.A. in Law and M.S. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis

Megan Brentlinger, Manager, International Student Retention

Megan Brentlinger

Manager, International Student Retention

Hometown: Council Bluffs, Iowa

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: English, Conversational Mandarin, and very basic Spanish

Professional background: I have worked in Education since 2006. I was an English teacher for over 8 years in Beijing, China. After completing my Master’s degree, I have focused on educational technology/blended learning, data, and assessment in adult education programs in the Phoenix area.

Education background: I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and International Studies (with minors in Spanish and Chinese Studies) from Iowa State University. I also have a Master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MTESOL) from ASU.

Fun fact: I have been to both ends of the Great Wall of China!

Shailja Jawa, Indian Student Services Coordinator

Shailja Jawa

Indian Student Services Coordinator

Hometown: Delhi (India)

Year joined the ISSC: 2023

Language(s) spoken: Hindi, Punjabi, English

Professional background: Worked at Disability Resource and Service center at Mesa Community College and organized their events.

Education background: Bachelors in Arts, Masters in English Literature (Ravishankar University in India), Diploma in Tourism and Marketing (Jiwaji University Gwalior,India), Real Estate (Arizona School Real estate and Business) in Gilbert

Fun fact: Love music, movies, food, shopping, traveling, and making new friends. I am a childhood Bollywood actor, I have done stage performances with Bollywood actors in the past.

Eng Chin Soh, East and Southeast Asian Student Services Coordinator

Eng Chin Soh

East and Southeast Asian Student Services Coordinator

Hometown: Singapore

Year joined the ISSC: 2025

Language(s) spoken: English, Mandarin, Japanese

Professional background: I worked in public schools before joining ASU. It provided me with transformative insight into the challenges, opportunities, and unique dynamics that shape America's education system. I’m excited to be part of the ASU team in continuing my journey of learning and growth in this field.

Education background: BA from Soka University in Japan

Fun fact: I enjoy camping in National Parks.

Ellya Farhana (Yaya) Mohd Shaferi, Coordinator Senior, First Year Student Experience Initiatives

Ellya Farhana (Yaya) Mohd Shaferi

Coordinator Senior, First Year Student Experience Initiatives

Hometown: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Year joined the ISSC: 2024

Language(s) spoken: Bahasa Melayu, Bahasa Indonesia and English.

Professional background: With a dynamic career trajectory, I transitioned from roles as a paralegal, corporate key executive, and civic engagement coordinator into the field of higher education due to my YSEALI fellowship and the impact of Covid-19. My journey includes serving as a Graduate Assistant for Student Life, Student Accessibility Services, and Student Activities at Upper Iowa University, followed by a position as a Community Director for ASU Housing. Currently, I am contributing my expertise to ISSC at ASU.

Education background: I hold an LL.B (Hons) from The University of Hull and an M.B.A from Upper Iowa University. I am also certified in Human Resource Associate Specialization by HRCI and hold a Google Project Management certification.

Fun fact: I have been to all the states in the USA except for Oregon!

Meenakshi Tiwari, Polytechnic Student Services Manager

Meenakshi Tiwari

Polytechnic Student Services Manager

Hometown: New Delhi, India

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: Hindi, English, Punjabi, Marathi

Professional background: I have been in the Event Management and Data Analyst field before joining ISSC. I also have vast experience working with nonprofits.

Education background: Masters in Sociology ( University of Arkansas), Masters in Russian Language, /history and Culture (University of Delhi, India).

Fun fact: I love reading, traveling, meeting new people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I am also an exponent of Bharatnatyam and love teaching and training kids in this beautiful classical dance form from India.

Chung-Ning Gonzalez, Director, International Faculty and Scholar Services

Chung-Ning Gonzalez

Director, International Faculty and Scholar Services

Hometown: Taipei, Taiwan

Year joined the ISSC: 2007

Language(s) spoken: Mandarin, Taiwanese and English

Professional background: I have been supporting international students and scholars for over 10 years. I was an international student and am an ASU alumnus.

Education background: I obtained three master’s degrees, all from ASU — communication studies, linguistics and education (ESL).

Fun fact: I enjoy spending time with family and seeing kids becoming multilingual and multicultural oriented.

Katherina Ells, Assistant Director, International Faculty and Scholar Services

Katherina Ells

Assistant Director, International Faculty and Scholar Services

Hometown: Velmede, Germany

Year joined the ISSC: 2014

Language(s) spoken: English and German

Professional background: I have been supporting international students since January 2014. Prior to joining the ISSC, I worked in the International Office at Scottsdale Community College.

Education background: Bachelor of Arts in global studies from Arizona State University.

Fun fact: Love to spend time with family, travel and learn about new cultures.

Eva Heard Harmony, Manager, International Faculty and Scholar Services

Eva Heard Harmony

Manager, International Faculty and Scholar Services

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2017

Language(s) spoken: English and some German

Professional background: I have worked in international education for a long time: 10 years at ASU at ISSC and Global Launch. Before that I worked at a small university in Washington state. I have also worked as a travel program coordinator and library assistant in a law firm.

Education background: BA from University of Arizona and lots of random classes.

Fun fact: I love being outdoors, traveling, hiking, swimming in cold lakes with my kids, etc. My goal is to visit all of Arizona’s state parks, and I am about a third of the way to that goal. I also love reading, listening to opera and going to performances, and goofing around with my family.

Morgan Green, Senior International Scholar Advisor

Morgan Green

Senior International Scholar Advisor

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2012

Language(s) spoken: English, Brazilian Portuguese and Spanish

Professional background: I have been working with scholars at ASU’s ISSC since January of 2012.

Education background: BA in Multilingual/Multicultural Elementary Education from ASU

Fun fact: I have 3 cats and 2 small children, so I clearly hate sleep.

Giuliano Roberts, International Scholar Program Coordinator

Giuliano Roberts

International Scholar Program Coordinator

Hometown: Naples, Italy

Year joined the ISSC: 2024

Language(s) spoken: Italian, English, Spanish

Professional background: I was a Community Director at ASU Housing for one year before joining ISSC. Before coming to ASU I worked as a Residence Area Coordinator and International Representative at Upper Iowa University. During my professional career, I also worked with international student-athletes from Italy.

Education background: I graduated from Pegaso University with a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Studies and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Upper Iowa University.

Fun fact: I played soccer for twenty years.

Sophia DeSanti, International Scholar Program Coordinator

Sophia DeSanti

International Scholar Program Coordinator

Hometown: Sag Harbor, New York

Year joined the ISSC: 2023

Language(s) spoken: English, Elementary Spanish

Professional background: Before ISSC, I worked in retail, then hospitality, and finally secondary education, where I would go on to assist the education of Biology, Anatomy, and English for grades 7th-12th. During the time where I had pursued those opportunities, I never thought I would end up working at ISSC first as a student worker in 2023 and now as a staff member, aiding our abundant number of international students, scholars, and faculty. Now here I am, eager to continue our service, inspiring others in the ASU community via inclusivity and diversity

Education background: BA in English Literature, Currently pursuing MA in English

Fun fact: My hobbies outside of work include video game-playing, movie-watching, book-reading, amateur boxing, amateur fencing, robotics, caricature-drawing, and listening to just about any genre of music save for American country :)

Halie Cousineau, Associate Director, Graduate Student Initiatives

Halie Cousineau

Associate Director, Graduate Student Initiatives

Hometown: Waterford, CT, USA

Year joined the ISSC: 2021

Language(s) spoken: English, Bahasa Indonesian

Professional background: I have been a photojournalist and international photographer, organic farmer and farm manager in Athens, Ohio as well as a Garden Educator and school garden coordinator in Oregon. I have also worked, attended school and or conducted research for about 3 months a year in Indonesia for 7 years leading up to COVID.

Education background: B.A. in Photojournalism from Ohio University and a M.A. in International Studies with a Focus in Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia.

Fun fact: I love almost all outdoor sports and I spend my free time doing them; swimming, sailing, biking, climbing, skiing, hiking, surfing, trail running and more!

Kashif (KJ) Farooqi, International Graduate Student Initiatives Program Coordinator

Kashif (KJ) Farooqi

International Graduate Student Initiatives Program Coordinator

Hometown: Punjab, Pakistan

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: English, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi

Professional background: I have been an entrepreneur all my life. It is time for a change and so here I am, pursuing a career in Education.

Education background: Bachelors in History.

Fun fact: I plan to retire on a beach, preferably somewhere in the Caribbean.

Erik Schmitz, Associate Director, SEVIS and Technology

Erik Schmitz

Associate Director, SEVIS and Technology

Hometown: Fairhaven, Minnesota

Year joined the ISSC: 2010

Language(s) spoken: English, basic Indonesian, basic Swedish and basic Spanish.

Professional background: I have worked at international students and scholars offices since 2009, and have been at Arizona State University, St. Cloud State University, and Johns Hopkins University during that time, primarily leading F-1 regulatory support and technology solutions.

Education background: BA from North Park University, Chicago, Illinois.

Fun fact: I enjoy working on my family tree, learning languages, playing trivia and singing karaoke.

Tiffany Tal-Pomrening, Assistant Director, Technology

Tiffany Tal-Pomrening

Assistant Director, Technology

Hometown: Brooklyn, New York

Year joined the ISSC: 2019

Language(s) spoken: English, basic Spanish and learning Korean and Japanese

Professional background: Prior to coming to ASU, I worked in disaster relief for a nonprofit company in Puerto Rico and Indonesia. I also worked as a student recruiter and travel organizer for a boarding school in Alaska. Before that, I was an elementary and middle school English teacher in Gokseong and Damyang, South Korea.

Education background: Bachelor’s degree in global studies and master’s in sustainable tourism from ASU.

Fun fact: I love to travel, try new foods and take photos along the way. My goal is to visit every country in the world! When I am not traveling, I like to listen to music, sew, and binge K-dramas.

Erica Hervig, SEVIS Coordinator

Erica Hervig

SEVIS Coordinator

Hometown: Tempe, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: English, studying Japanese

Professional background: I have worked at ASU since 2016, first for the ASU Emeritus College and now ISSC. Before that, I worked for a South Korean shipping line.

Education background: BA in East Asian Studies from ASU and MLIS from U of A.

Fun fact: I love to learn new recipes and cooking techniques from different cuisines. I can spend hours watching Youtube recipe videos!

Shumi Hung, Digital Communications Coordinator

Shumi Hung

Digital Communications Coordinator

Hometown: Malaysia

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: English, Malay, Chinese

Professional background: Before I graduated from college, I worked as a student worker at the international student office in Orange Coast College (Costa Mesa, CA) and ASU (Tempe, AZ). Later, I attended a graduate level training program and worked as Team Coordinator at Anaheim, CA for 2 years; then, I moved back to Arizona to work as Program and Social Media Coordinator for a non-profit organization in Phoenix.

Education background: BS Sociology in Arizona State University.

Fun fact: I’m a home barista and love experimenting with making drinks.

Jose Lugo, Data Support Coordinator

Jose Lugo

Data Support Coordinator

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Year joined the ISSC: 2022

Language(s) spoken: English, moderate Spanish

Professional background: During my time studying at ASU I worked as a student worker for the University Technology Office as a Technology Consultant. After graduation I worked as a software engineer for a large consultancy company before deciding to come back to work at ASU again.

Education background: B.S. in Computer Science from Arizona State University.

Fun fact: I love attending live sporting events. My dream is to visit every NFL and MLB stadium.

Parth Sawant, Tech Coordinator

Parth Sawant

Tech Coordinator

Hometown: Mumbai, India

Year joined the ISSC: 2025

Language(s) spoken: English, Hindi, Marathi, Kannada

Professional background: Before joining ISSC, I worked as a performance test engineer at Sulzer. I tested centrifugal pumps to make sure they didn't break under pressure – literally.

Education background: B.Tech. in Mechatronics Engineering from Manipal University, MSTech in Management of Technology from ASU

Fun fact: I can break down a soccer play like a game-winning strategy and debate anime power levels like it's a science.