Shannon Hitchcock Schantz, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
Director
Shannon Hitchcock Schantz joined the First Year Seminar as director in May 2023. She is a higher education professional with 17 years of experience working on college campuses across New York State. She completed a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and biophysics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), a master’s degree in higher education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and a doctorate in higher education at Syracuse University. She previously worked in residence life at Barnard College, Hamilton College and RPI.
During her studies at Syracuse, Schantz served as a teaching assistant for the College Learning Strategies course. Her dissertation research focused on an intersectional examination of the impact of classroom climate in engineering on women’s academic outcomes. In her most recent position as student life director/Title IX coordinator at PrattMWP College of Art and Design, an extension campus of Pratt Institute, she oversaw residence life, student activities and leadership, health and counseling, and accommodations, and spearheaded the college’s retention efforts and academic support.
George Athanas (he/him/his)
Associate Director
George is an associate director in the Center for Student Excellence and works directly with the First Year Seminar Lead Instructors. He has worked at Syracuse University for over 20 years and with our tutoring and academic coaching since August 2022. Originally from New England, he enjoys all that autumn brings — sweatshirt weather, apple picking, cider, and fall foliage to name just a few. In addition, he likes trying new ethnic cuisine, quilting, and attending theater productions.
Aimée Shukuru (she/her/hers)
Program Coordinator
Aimée Shukuru joined the First Year Seminar as a program coordinator in December 2024. With an academic background and diverse experience at Syracuse University, she brings a unique perspective to her role. Aimée has held positions as a residential adviser, teaching assistant and SOURCE undergraduate research assistant, where she developed a passion for learning and supporting students.
She received a bachelor’s degree in international relations and political science from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs in 2022, followed by a master’s degree in Pan African Studies from the Department of African American Studies in 2024. Aimée’s thesis research focused on the intersection of African politics, grassroots organizations and the conceptualization of racial discrimination in international law.
Bernice Ahiakwa (she/her/hers)
Graduate Assistant
Bernice is a graduate student in the Higher Education program at Syracuse University, where she serves as a Graduate Assistant and Lead Instructor for First Year Seminar. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Ghana, where she studied Social Work and Philosophy.
Her professional and scholarly interests include first-year experience, student transitions and retention, student belonging, international education, student development, and equitable access to higher education. Bernice is passionate about helping students navigate the academic, social, and personal transitions into college while developing a strong sense of belonging. Through First Year Seminar, she enjoys building meaningful relationships with students and helping them develop the confidence, connections, and resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive at Syracuse University.