Writing Center
Meet the Specialists
The Writing Center is full of Writing Center Specialists that come from an array of educational and professional backgrounds. We are each here to come alongside you in your writing and act as your advocate. We are dedicated to supporting you in whatever way that resonates most with you.
Doctoral Writing Center Specialists

Jeanette Drake
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.

Holly Eimer
Doctoral Writing Center Specialist
As a lifelong learner and veteran educator, I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with students. As a former exchange student, I especially appreciate the struggles of our diverse student body. In my roles as doctoral dissertation chair, committee member, and certified qualitative methodologist for multiple universities, I work extensively with students to polish their writing skills, adhere to APA, and align their manuscripts to their chosen theory and framework. I obtained my M.A. in Education from Lesley University, Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction, and Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. I specialize in qualitative research.

Sarah Gray
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.
Zachary Hayes
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.
Alexa Weimer
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 Specialists
Mehri Aghaseyedhassanesfehani
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.
Dr. Hajar El Qasemy
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.
Mariana Alves Poloni
Academic Resource Center Specialist
Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, I have a diverse professional and educational background. In addition to holding a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy and an MBA, I am in the final stages of completing my DBA. With extensive experience in operations management and sales strategies, I currently work as a logistics coordinator and sales representative for a pharmaceutical wholesaler while also serving as an academic specialist at the Westcliff University Academic Resources Center. My passion for education is driven by my own experiences as a former international exchange student, allowing me to connect deeply with students navigating academic challenges.
Denise Ginzo
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.
Noaman Patne
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.
Dr. Kumar Dahal
Academic Resource Center Specialist
As an accomplished educator and researcher with over 14 years of leadership & teaching experience, I am passionate about guiding students in Business, Research, AI, and Data Analytics. I hold a Doctorate in Business Administration with a specialization in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics from Westcliff University. My expertise spans business analytics, strategic management, AI-driven decision-making, and small business sustainability. By bridging theory and real-world practice, I am dedicated to empowering students with advanced analytical skills, strategic insights, and the confidence needed to excel academically and professionally.