TRIO Staff
Dave Carson, Program Director
Email:
Phone:
563-441-4072
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Business at Canisius College, Buffalo, New York; Master of
Divinity, Christian Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, Indiana; Doctor of Philosophy,
Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Biography:
I was born and raised in Buffalo, New York. As a child of parents who neither attended
college nor graduated from high school, I learned the art of self-advocacy. Though
my original career of choice was business, I fell in love with the academy and academic
pursuit. My 25 years of higher education service both as faculty and student services
has been an opportunity to passionately continue serving students by encouraging and
proving tools for academic and life success. I base all of my work on the following
quote by Vincent Tinto, a great student advocate who said “…access without support
is not opportunity”. On a more personal note, my most enjoyable hobby is ballroom
dancing with my wife.
Steve Cravens, TRIO Success Coach
Email:
Phone:
563-441-4070
Education:
Bachelor of Science in History at St. Ambrose University and Master of Science in Education and Interdisciplinary Studies at Western Illinois University.
Biography:
I was born in Heidelberg, Germany while my dad was stationed there in the Army. I grew up in Moline, IL and have most recently lived in San Diego, California for the past four years. I am the first person to graduate from college in my family. I found that I had a passion for education while at my first job after college working as a building supervisor assisting high-risk students. I am a Tai Chi Chuan instructor certified through the William C.C. Chen School of New York. I enjoy the opportunity to work with students to meet their academic and professional goals.
Brittany Beard, TRIO Success Coach
Email:
Phone:
563-441-4073
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Iowa State University, Master’s in Adult and Higher Education with an emphasis in Student Affairs from Northern Illinois University
Biography:
I am originally from Des Moines, IA. I was actually in TRIO when I was in college so I know first-hand the impact that TRIO has on students’ lives. Free tutoring, free printing, free cultural events, direct access to advisors, and a community of genuine care and support are just a few of my favorite things from when I was a TRIO student. I enjoy going on walks, reading, watching suspense/action movies, laughing, and having a good time with whoever I’m with. My husband and I serve in the Youth & Family ministry at our church (Quad City Church of Christ). Our two children keep us busy and entertained. I absolutely love working with students, especially at the community college! I came into this field to inspire students but the reality is YOU are the ones who inspire me!