As a critical part of the Student Success Center, Dr. Brandon Haskins and Melanie Carignan serve as Vanderbilt University School of Nursing’s Student Success Advisors. Their role is to serve as an academic coach, who utilizes the individualized practice of asking reflective, motivation-based questions, providing opportunities for formal self-assessment, sharing effective strategies, and co-creating a tangible success action plan.
Melanie Carignan is a dedicated higher education professional with a background in academic advising and student support. A proud graduate of the University of Massachusetts Lowell, she went on to support students in a professional capacity at the same institution, as an Academic Advisor. Melanie guided students through academic planning, goal-setting, and university resources to promote academic success.
At Curry College, Melanie served as the Coordinator of Peer Tutoring and Advising. She developed a Peer Tutoring Program, trained student leaders, and worked closely with faculty and staff to enhance academic support services. Melanie helped foster a collaborative, student-centered learning environment that prioritized engagement and growth.
Passionate about student development, retention, and academic success, Melanie brings a student-first approach. Melanie is committed to creating inclusive and empowering educational experiences that help students reach their full potential.
Melanie now serves as an Academic Success Advisor at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, where she supports students through a holistic approach to advising by addressing academic, personal, and professional development to ensure well-rounded student success.
Dr. Brandon Haskins currently serves as an Student Success Advisor at Vanderbilt University, School of Nursing, where he leads with vision and strategic direction to enhance student life, engagement, and academic excellence. With over 10 years of progressive leadership in higher education and K-12 environments, Dr. Haskins has established a strong record in student leadership development, retention initiatives, culture and belonging, and student success programming at both the institutional and systems level.
At the heart of Dr. Haskins' leadership is a steadfast belief in the transformative power of student-focused education. Prior to his current role, Dr. Haskins served in multiple leadership positions across student affairs and academic affairs, including his tenure at Tennessee State University where he led first-generation initiatives that significantly contributed to students’ persistence and graduation outcomes. His work spans secondary and postsecondary education, with a specialized focus on bridging access and equity for historically underserved student populations.
His educational development began as a student at Tennessee State University where he majored in Mass Communications. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree, he pursued the Master of Education, Instructional Leadership; both from Tennessee State University. Dr. Haskins earned his Doctor of Education in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University.
Dr. Haskins and Melanie will serve as a constant and additional resource for you to connect with throughout your matriculation here at VUSN. Each VUSN student is assigned a Student Success Advisor. Please note that your Student Success Advisor does not replace your assigned Faculty Advisor; however, they will help assist you with any challenges that may arise.
If you would like to take advantage of their service, please email vusnstudentsuccess@vanderbilt.edu and book your appointment today. Your assigned Student Success Advisor will follow up with you directly.