Student Support Services: Is your school supporting you?

John W. Blue is a trailblazer in the realm of higher education and diversity initiatives. Hailing from Tampa, Florida, John serves as the inaugural Executive Director of the Office of Belonging, Access & Engagement and is also the Senior Diversity & Inclusion Officer at Eastern Illinois University. A testament to resilience and ambition, John is a proud first-generation college graduate who earned his bachelor's degree in biology from Jackson State University. His passion for leadership led him to complete a Master's degree in Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, and he is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Higher Education Administration at the University of Mississippi.

John's influence extends beyond his professional accomplishments; he has an unwavering commitment to shaping inclusive educational environments where everyone can thrive. When he's not championing change in academia, you'll find him exploring new corners of the world or soaking in the electrifying energy of college football and HBCU marching bands. Inspired by Nelson Mandela’s wisdom, he lives by the motto, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
John W. Blue embodies a spirit of excellence and continues to make significant strides in transforming the landscape of higher education.

Dr. Nequel Burwell is an accomplished professional from North Carolina. Presently, she holds the position of Director for Residence Life at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Dr. Burwell's academic background includes a bachelor's degree in communications and psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, as well as a master's degree in student affairs administration in higher education. In August 2022, she successfully completed her Ed.D. in Education with a focus on Higher Education from The University of Mississippi.

With an unwavering commitment to her field, Dr. Burwell actively participates in numerous higher education and student affairs organizations NASPA & SACSA. Dr. Burwell's areas of expertise center around student growth, leadership development, and fostering an environment that encourages personal and professional development among staff members. Notably, she is a co-founder of the prominent Facebook group, Black Student Affairs Professionals (#BLKSAP), which serves as a vital platform for networking and support within the field. Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Burwell is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity. She is an avid book club member, a true crime enthusiast, a passionate foodie, and a dog mom.