Samuel C Coomes

Sam joined the Academic Resource Center within the 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, leading to graduation in a timely manner. During meetings he will encourage students to get involved on campus and utilize helpful campus resources. He started the Educational Leadership doctorate program at UNCW during the Fall 2026 semester and currently serves as staff senator.

In his previous position Sam worked with military affiliated students due to Columbus State University's proximity to Fort Benning, international students attending the Schwob School of Music, and first-generation college students as an Academic Advisor and Retention Specialist. 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, completing a thesis project on 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

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate, Coaching and Mentoring, University of North Carolina Wilmington
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, UNCW, Center for Teaching Excellence, 2025
UNCW Staff Senator, 2025-Present
High Impact Practices Council, 2026

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