Engagement and Success
The Engagement and Success Coaches work alongside students to build confidence, navigate challenges, and thrive at Kirkwood. Rooted in equity and student advocacy, the coaches use data-informed strategies to design targeted programming, offer mentorship, and connect students with the tools they need to succeed — both academically and personally.
By identifying barriers to access and opportunity, the team helps create an inclusive, supportive environment where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to reach their goals. management skills, navigating college systems, and creating a culture of belonging. We’re here to guide you through every step, ensuring you feel confident and supported in your educational journey.
Meet our team by clicking on the next tabs to learn more about our coaches, email them, or find a calendar slot to schedule time with them.
Deleigha is from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and graduated from Prairie High School in
2016. She then went on to receive her B.A. in Political Science from Iowa State University where she also joined Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. Following her time at Iowa State she took a gap year before attending the University of South Carolina where she received her master's in Higher Education and Student Affairs. In her free time she loves to read as well as spending time with her friends and family.
Hi everyone, I’m Paulina! I graduated from the University of Iowa in May of 2022 with a degree in Social Justice and a minor in Latina/o/x Studies. At Iowa, I previously worked with various programs and offices that serve underrepresented students on campus and in the community. Through those experiences, I became passionate about higher education. My goal is to have higher education become more attainable for historically marginalized students and for them to be able to reach their academic, social, professional, and personal goals.
In my free time, I like to create playlists on Spotify, go to the gym, do jigsaw puzzles, try new restaurants, and hang out with my friends. I’m an Iowa Hawkeye fan through and through and also enjoy watching Mexico’s National Soccer team play. I’m super excited to start this new position and meet everyone!
Cymone is a Cedar Rapids native and a graduate of Washington High School.
She went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies with a focus in Health and Human Studies from the University of Iowa. As a proud first-generation college graduate, Cymone is passionate about supporting and encouraging today’s students to reach their dreams, just as others did for her.
Before joining Kirkwood, Cymone worked in the K–12 school system where she partnered with school leadership to create access to valuable resources and elevate underrepresented voices. Whether in education or in the community, she is committed to making meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impact. Cymone lives by the philosophy that “Leaders lead” — working to close gaps and remove barriers before anyone else realizes they exist.
Outside of work, Cymone loves to laugh and calls herself a self-proclaimed comedian. She enjoys listening to Bob Marley, learning unique facts, and collecting great quotes to live by.
Resources
Our team uses a variety of resources to support students’ personal and academic growth. This includes workshops, one-on-one coaching sessions, and access to supportive community networks.
Overview: Our Pre-College Program is designed to prepare students for the academic challenges ahead. This program includes sessions on effective study techniques, time management skills, and navigating college resources.
Benefits: Students gain confidence, develop essential academic skills, and build a supportive peer network before starting their college journey.
Career Exploration Seminar: Helps students identify potential career paths based on their interests, skills, and values. This seminar includes interactive activities, guest speakers from various industries, and resources for further exploration.
Identity Development Seminar: Focuses on helping students understand and appreciate their unique identities. This seminar includes discussions on cultural awareness, self-expression, and building resilience.
Stress Management Seminar: Provides students with techniques and strategies to manage stress effectively. This seminar includes mindfulness practices, stress-reduction exercises, and tips for maintaining a healthy balance between academic and personal life.
One-on-One Coaching
Our personalized, student-focused one-on-one coaching sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.
- Focus Areas: Time management, academic planning, personal development, and overcoming specific challenges.
- Approach: Coaches work closely with students to set goals, develop action plans, and provide continuous support and motivation.
Community Resources
We provide access to a wide range of supportive community networks that foster a sense of belonging and inclusion.
- Support Groups: Regularly scheduled support groups for students to share experiences and build connections.
- Networking Opportunities: Events and activities that connect students with mentors, alumni, and community leaders.
- Resource Centers: Access to centers that offer additional support services, including counseling, financial aid advice, and academic tutoring.
Academic Support Network
Our Academic Support Network is dedicated to ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed academically.
- Tutoring Services: One-on-one and group tutoring sessions in various subjects.
- Study Groups: Organized study groups that encourage collaborative learning.
- Workshops: Regular workshops on topics such as test preparation, research skills, and effective note-taking.
Monthly Newsletter
Stay informed about our services, upcoming events, and valuable resources.
- Content: Articles on student success stories, tips for academic and personal growth, announcements of upcoming workshops and events, and highlights of community resources.
- Subscription: Sign up to receive the latest news and updates directly to your inbox.
Join Our Mailing List
Register for our mailing list to receive our monthly newsletter and stay up to date with Engagement and Success Coach Services. By joining, you’ll be the first to know about new resources, events, and opportunities to enhance your college experience.
Engagement and Success Coach Services is available to receive referrals from faculty for students who may benefit from our support. By referring students to our office, faculty can help them access a wide range of resources aimed at promoting their academic and personal growth. We provide assistance with time management, navigating college systems, and creating a culture of belonging, ensuring that each student feels supported and empowered.
