Samuel C Coomes

Sam joined the Academic Resource Center within the newly formed College of Science and Engineering in the summer of 2024. In his role as an Academic Advisor, he helps students understand their degree requirements and course sequencing for them to graduate in a timely manner. Before starting at UNCW Sam worked at Columbus State University in Columbus, Georgia as an Academic Advisor and Retention Specialist for three years. In that position Sam worked with many military affiliated students due to Columbus's proximity to Fort Moore, international students attending the Schwob School of Music, and many first-generation college students. He contributed to the Student Navigation Team's efforts to identify barriers to enrollment, student success, and retention. Additionally, he served on the university's Staff Council and completed the Leadership Institute's Emerge program. Before moving to Georgia, Sam completed his master's degree at Salisbury University where he interned in the Academic Advising Center and worked as a Success Coach in the Center for Student Achievement. As an undergraduate student at St. Mary's College of Maryland, Sam majored in history and completed a senior project centered of the economic history of Cumberland, Maryland. He was a two year team captain of the Men's Cross Country team, a four year member of the student-athlete advisory committee, and worked as a Resident Assistant.

Education

M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction Post-Secondary Track, Salisbury University
B.A. in History, St. Mary's College of Maryland

Professional Service

CSU Staff Council Member, 2021-2024
CSU Student Navigation Team, 2023-2024
Panelist, Mentoring for Belonging, Center for Teaching Excellence, 2025

Honors & Awards

Student-athlete Advisory Committee Award, 2016
Office of Residence Life Outstanding 3rd Year Staff Award, 2018
The May Russell Historical Achievement Award, 2018
The Thomas Barrett Research Award, 2018