CoLA Peer Mentors

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Last Updated: Aug 21, 2025, 09:04 AM

 derrick gardner

Derrick Gardner

derrick.gardner@siu.edu

Hey, My name is Derrick Gardner, a junior studying computer science from Belleville, IL. I’m a proud member of the Black Men Coalition where I serve as the Secretary! I am also apart of the Student Programming Council as the Lite Night Director! In my free time I enjoy working out, fashion, & video games. If you have any questions feel free to reach out! 

Office: Faner 2514. Mondays 1:00-2:30, Tuesdays 10:00-1:00, Wednesdays 1:00-2:30, Thursdays 10:00-11:00 and 12:00-1:00 and 2:00-3:00

Tobias Gillespie

Tobias Gillespie

tobias.gillespie@siu.edu

Tobias Gillespie (He/Him/His) is a junior at Southern Illinois University Carbondale majoring in Healthcare Management, with double minors in Long-Term Care Administration and Health Informatics and Information Management. Now in his second year as a peer mentor, Tobias continues to demonstrate leadership within the College of Liberal Arts.

He also serves as a Senior Orientation Leader, helping incoming students and their supporters transition into college life. Tobias is deeply involved on campus and currently holds the position of Vice President of the Africana Theatre Lab. Additionally, he is an active member of the Black Affairs Council, Student Healthcare Management Association, Black Men Coalition, Dawg Pound, and Share the Bread.

Originally from the South Side of Chicago, Tobias takes great pride in his roots. When he’s not in class or involved in campus organizations, he enjoys spending time with friends, shopping, traveling, and watching reality TV.

Tobias believes in being accessible to those he supports—feel free to stop by his office anytime during his open-door hours, or reach out via email with any questions, comments, or concerns.

Go Dawgs!

Office: Faner 2514. Mondays 2pm-3:30pm, Tuesdays 9am- 11am, Wednesdays 2pm- 3:30pm, Thursdays 9am-11am and/or 2pm-4pm (Depends on week), Fridays 12:30pm -2:30pm (Depends on week)

Eris GoldenEris Golden

eris.golden@siu.edu

Hi, I'm Eris, a 5th year student born in Stockbridge, Il. I'm a communications major with a focus on public relations. I'm also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity inc. In my free time, I like to socialize and play games.

Office: Faner 2514

Noemi Gomez

Noemi Gomez

noemi.gomez@siu.edu

Hey Salukis!! My name is Noemi, and I’m from Waukegan, IL! I’m a senior here at SIUC (been here all four years) majoring in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry on the pre-dental track! Fun fact I used to cheer for our Saluki football and basketball teams! I’m also involved in Greek life and currently serve as President, Publicity Chair, and Stroll Chair for Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. I’m also a member of our chemistry fraternity Alpha Chi Sigma. I also work in a research lab in the microbiology department! My favorite spot in Carbondale is Blend!! Some of my favorite things include cooking/baking, listening to music, watching shows, and exploring the Windy City! I’m here to help you navigate college life, share tips you didn’t know, and be a resource for anything you need. Don’t be shy to reach out or stop by!

Office: Faner 2514. Hours: Mondays 10am–12pm, 1pm–2pm, 3pm–5pm and Wednesdays 9am–12pm, 1pm–2pm

King Haynes

King Haynes

sercye.haynes@siu.edu

King Haynes is a dedicated financial economics major with a minor in accounting at Southern Illinois University. Alongside academic pursuits, King is a committed track athlete, balancing rigorous training with coursework. In addition to excelling in both fields, King recently took on the role of a peer mentor, supporting fellow students in navigating their academic and personal development. Passionate about finance and driven by a strong work ethic, King embodies the spirit of both athletic and academic achievement.

Office: Faner 2514. Mondays 8:30-9:30, Tuesdsays 8:30-9:30 and 11:00-12:00, Wednesdays 8:30-9:30 and 11:00-12:00, Thursdays 11:00-12:00, Fridays 10:00-1:00

 

Jessica OrangeJessica Orange

jessica.orange@siu.edu

Hey! My name is Jessica Orange and I am from St.Louis, Missouri. This is my 5th year here at SIU and I am majoring in Dental Hygiene with a minor in healthcare Management.  Some things I enjoy doing are meeting new people, online shopping, traveling, and spending time with my 1 year old doggie, Dream. 

Office: Faner 2514. Wednesdsays 11:30-1:30 and Thursdays 8:00-3:00

Journey ShortJourney Short

journey.short@siu.edu

My name is Journey and I am a senior at Southern Illinois of Carbondale studying journalism with a minor in Africana studies. I chose this job because I understand the impact a peer mentor has on a student. 
My freshmen year, I was fortunate enough to have a Campus Contact and the influence she has been on my life is tremendous and vast. I can wholeheartedly say that my journey at Siuc has been much easier with her guidance and kind words. And that is what I hope to be to my mentees, someone who can help and guide you through all the troubles and hardships you may have and share with you your triumphs. I hope I am able to be of service to you as others have been to me. 

Office: Faner 2514. Tuesdays 12:30-3:30, Wednesdays 10:00-11:00 and 12:00-2:00; Thursdays 12:00-3:00

Sophia SlupskiSophia Slupski

sophia.slupski@siu.edu

Hello, my name is Sophia Slupski. I am from Mahomet, Illinois. Currently, I am a senior majoring in Social Work, with a minor in Psychology. I am a part of the Social Work Student Alliance Club here at SIU. I love to cook, be outdoors, hike, take photos, socialize, listen to music, go on coffee runs, and go to events here on campus. I love making new friends. My favorite sport to play is Tennis, as well as pickleball. I am a huge football fan, whether that is NFL or college. You can see me at most sporting events here on campus cheering on the Salukis! I am the type of person who likes to keep busy, so I am always finding something to do. I am excited for this school year! I want to be here to help my students with whatever they need, to make sure I give the proper resources here on campus to them, and to help make sure my students have a successful college career. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to send me an email.  

Office: Faner 2514. Mondays 8:00-12:00, Thursdays 8:00-9:00, and Fridays 11:15-3:15

Jayy StokesJayy Stokes

joslyn.stokes@siu.edu

Hi! My name is Jayy, and I’m a senior in the College of Health and Human Sciences. I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Services. I’m originally from the West Side of Chicago, IL.

In addition to being a peer mentor, I also work as a daycare teacher here in Carbondale. If you have any questions about campus life, need support, or are interested in the Psychology program, feel free to reach out I’m always happy to help!

Office: Faner 2514. Mondays and Wednesdays 8:00-10:45; Tuesday and Thursdays 8:00-9:00; Fridays 8:00-9:30

Rhi Taylor

Dennis Sturkey

Hello, my name Dennis Sturkey, most of the time I go by my nickname Sturk. I’m a fifth year first gen student majoring in Africana Studies. I plan on going to law school after I finish my undergraduate degree and becoming an IP attorney. I’m the vice executive of the Student Programming Council and vice president of the Black Men Coalition here on campus. I’m from the west side of Chicago. In my spare time I like playing video games, listening to music, socializing, and reading. If you have any questions I’m always here to talk, just send me an email. 

Office: Faner 2514.

Rhi Taylor

Rhi Taylor

My name is Rhi Taylor, I use They/Them pronouns. I am from Charleston Illinois, and I am a Senior here at SIU. I am double majoring in Anthropology and Classics and minoring in Ancient Practices. I am a part of the Anthropology Club. Outside of school, I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, camping, and just enjoying nature. I love to find gorgeous new scenery here in SOIL and I love to share my favorite places with everyone.

Office: Faner 2514. Tuesdays 11:00-2:00, Wednesdays 9:00-12:00, and Thursdays 11:00-2:00
Dnyia Williams

Dnyia Williams

Hey Salukis!!! My name is Dnyia Williams I am from the south side of Chicago. This year I am a junior here at siuc majoring in political science with a specialization in prelaw and a minor in sociology. I love socializing, cooking, and making new friends. My favorite sport is volleyball, and my favorite color is blue. I love traveling and adventure to try and find new things in the world. I love reading books and binge watching tv shows. I am here to help you and give you more knowledge about college, and things you did not know! Do not be afraid to reach out or come to me. 

 

Office: Faner 2514. Mondays 10:00-12:00 and 1:30-3:30; Tuesdays 10:00-1:00, and Wednesdays 10:00-12:00