Student Support and Advocacy
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing’s Office for Student Affairs is responsible for the organization and oversight of a comprehensive student affairs program that supports the school’s mission, meets the needs of a diverse population and fosters student engagement. The office coordinates and oversees policies, programs and services that support non-academic student success. Office staff and leadership coordinate and advise all student nursing organizations, develop and monitor protocols that foster and support scholarly activities, coordinate and manage community outreach and advocacy efforts. The Office of Student Affairs holds responsibility for planning and implementation of the Pinning and Commencement ceremonies for VUSN, as well as new student orientation and composite photography
Dr. Feylyn M. Lewis, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs
Feylyn M. Lewis, PhD, is the primary student advocate and referral source in responding directly to non-academic student matters. This role requires knowledge of university resources and familiarity with state and federal regulations pertaining to management of student records, privacy, and safety (e.g., FERPA, Americans with Disabilities Act, Title IX, Campus Safety & Security Act, etc.). She provides communication related to student morale and general welfare to senior leadership. Dean Lewis works in collaboration with VUSN faculty and leadership, including the Associate Dean for Strategic Enrollment, Associate Dean for Culture and Connectedness, Senior Associate Dean of Academics, and Dean Pamela Jeffries. She is responsible for providing vision, leadership and strategic planning for student affairs programming that delivers support services, student life and community engagement.
Allie Noote Associate Director, Academic & Educational Support
Allie Noote can assist students who would like to request a meeting with Dr. Lewis. Meetings with Dr. Lewis can be virtual or in-person. Allie also helps with support Dr. Lewis with all things encompassing new student orientation, as well as composites. Allie also supports student organizations, as well as overseeing the student newsletter each week alongside Dr. Lewis. She takes a lead role in planning the Pinning and Commencement ceremonies and other student life events.
Melanie Carignan, Student Success Advisor
Melanie Carignan is originally from Boston, MA. Her background in higher education has impacted overall student development and persistence through her past roles at the University of Massachusetts Lowell and Curry College.
Brandon Haskins, Student Success Advisor
Dr. Haskins is a higher education professional specializing in student success, first-generation support, and academic persistence. He has serviced in leadership roles supporting persistence, belonging, and degree attainment at institutions such as Tennessee State University and American Baptist College. His work focuses on advancing equity and career readiness through holistic student development. He is a native of Louisville, KY.