2023 COI Great Grads Fall

Jeramis McFadden

B.S. in Information Science

 

Meet COI Great Grad Jeramis McFadden, a remarkable individual who stands out as both a veteran and a non-traditional student in our academic community. Despite facing a myriad of personal challenges, including job loss and the mental strain brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Jeramis remained an outstanding student.

Navigating the difficulties of the pandemic, Jeramis displayed unwavering resilience and determination. His commitment to pursuing a bachelor's in Data Science is truly commendable, reflecting a strong work ethic that sets him apart.

As an institution, we are proud to have Jeramis as a member of our academic community. His story serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of our non-traditional students, highlighting the strength and perseverance required to overcome obstacles on the path to achieving one's goals.
 

Millicent Njeri

Ph.D. in Information Science

 

COI Great Grad Millicent Njeri came from Kenya in 2016 to join UNT's MS Hospitality program with the encouragement of her single mother and as an only child. It was difficult to leave but it was her only chance to reach her ultimate goal: a PhD. She finished the MS quickly and began searching for a PhD program. The interdisciplinary PhD in Information Science which had a concentration in consumer experience and behavior management was a draw and Dr. Jeff Allen helped her combine that plan with hospitality and merge her love of statistics as well by helping her forge that minor though the College of Education.

Sadly, her mother was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer as she competed her MS and passed away shortly thereafter but before she did, she told Millicent not to forget her goals and to go back to complete her PhD, so no matter how hard that first year without her mom was, she honored her memory by sticking with the plan --and she finished her PhD in 3 years rather than 4 with a dissertation that collected data on private club member benefits and how they affect consumer behavior. Before she graduated, she was offered the position at Florida State University as Assistant Professor, where she teaches a new course that she is developing called Intro to Tourism. She would like to thank Dr. Jeff Allen, Dr. Daniella Smith and the Hospitality Dept. Chair, without whom she says she would have been lost.