Doctoral Writing Center Specialist

As a dedicated educator with a rich background in both academia and instructional design, I bring a unique perspective to my teaching and mentoring roles. My extensive experience includes teaching writing across the University of California system, California State University system, and various community colleges, where I have developed expertise in supporting students at all levels of their academic journey. I have worked extensively with students to polish their writing skills, adhere to APA guidelines, and align their manuscripts with academic expectations.

I specialize in helping students master academic writing conventions while developing their unique voice. My research background spans both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, with particular expertise in analyzing student success patterns and developing evidence-based interventions to support academic achievement. My approach combines rigorous academic standards with compassionate support. Whether working with undergraduate students on their first research papers or supporting doctoral candidates with their dissertations, I am committed to making the writing process accessible and empowering for all learners.

Doctoral Writing Center Specialist

Having worked in the field and in the classroom, I know how important writing is for any career. This is why I find it so rewarding to help students become more confident writers. After teaching for 22 years at universities across the country, I enjoy this unique opportunity to work one-on-one with students and draw on my own experiences in business, education, and doctoral studies to make useful connections. I have an M.A. in journalism from The Ohio State University and a Ph.D. in communication studies from Bowling Green State University, along with ESL certification. My research has been informed by both qualitative and quantitative methods; I specialize in the former.

Academic Success Manager and Director of Westcliff University Writing Centers

As the Academic Success Manager at Westcliff University, I oversee the university’s writing centers and lead initiatives that support student learning and academic development across disciplines. With a background that bridges both academia and industry, I bring a unique perspective to educational leadership, teaching, and mentoring. My career began with an MBA from Baker University and several years in the banking industry, where I held managerial, training, and consulting roles. After earning a PhD in English Literature, I transitioned fully into higher education and have spent over a decade teaching college composition. I strive to make writing and learning approachable and enjoyable, drawing on my combined experience in business, education, and doctoral research to guide students and support faculty across programs.

Doctoral Writing Center Specialist

I am excited to assist Westcliff students on the important journey of developing a unique academic voice in their chosen field. With a PhD in Literatures in Spanish from UC San Diego, and a focus on cultural studies, I am finely attuned to the growth opportunities inherent to working on complex, comparative projects (perhaps, as was my case, in a non-primary language). In addition to an eye for organization and consistency of argument, I am interested in helping students overcome any barriers that might impede enjoyment of the writing process. I strive to provide detail-oriented feedback supported by an intellectual curiosity that notices the compelling elements of a research project at any phase of its development.

Writing Center Specialist

Alexa Weimer is a passionate writer with a deep love for art. She is often found soaking up the sun while staying active. With over two years of experience at Westcliff, Alexa takes great pride in her role as a Writing Center Specialist, dedicated to helping students enhance their writing skills and achieve academic and future success.

Academic Resource Center Specialist

As a passionate educator with extensive experience in academic support, I am dedicated to helping students excel in their academic writing, regardless of their degree or proficiency level. I hold a Master of Education in Administrative and Educational Policy from St. Francis Xavier University and an MA in TESOL with a concentration in Educational Technology from Westcliff University, where I graduated as the valedictorian for the Class of 2020–2021. In my role as both a professor and an ARC Specialist, I support students across various disciplines, helping them develop their academic writing, research, and critical thinking skills. My approach is student-centered, focusing on accessibility, academic excellence, and preparing students for success in an ever-evolving academic landscape. My professional interests also include educational policy, leadership, and the evolving role of technology in education.

Academic Resource Center Specialist

As a doctor in Business Intelligence & Data Analytics and an author of peer-reviewed publications in Information Systems and Cognitive Technologies, I combine core competencies with technical expertise and a strong academic foundation, backed by a successful managerial career in one of the world’s leading global chains. I am dedicated to sharing my extensive knowledge with all level students at the Academic Resource Center.

Passionate about lifelong learning, I strive to be a source of empowerment and an advocate of engagement-based education.

Academic Resource Center Specialist

I am Denise Ginzo, originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a city renowned for its beaches, mountains, and Carnival. I chose to make Southern California my home due to its climate, which closely resembles Rio’s, as well as its suitability for hiking and biking—two of my favorite leisure activities. With over 20 years of experience in the oil & gas and shipping industries, I have worked with major companies like Shell Brazil, Petrobras, and Alianca, holding positions as a systems analyst and financial manager. I pursued my MBA in Finance & Accounting, Business Statistics, and Data Analytics at Westcliff University, graduating in 2021. Currently, I work as a business analyst with UCSD Health and as an academic specialist with the Academic Resource Center (ARC), where I am eager to help students on their academic journey.

Academic Resource Center Specialist

Having worked professionally in product management for the last four years, launching products that have made millions of dollars, I made the decision to move back to academia. I have been writing for the last seven years for a tech publication and have worked in tech, manufacturing, e-commerce, and building social communities. Currently, I am with the ARC team, supporting students in writing academic papers.