
Rachel Brunson
Adjunct Professor
Biography
Professor Brunson graduated from USF’s School of Education in 2013 and has been working in the field of higher education and student affairs ever since, specifically within the realm of academic support services. After serving as the assistant director of peer learning in the Student Success Center at the University of South Carolina, Rachel returned "home" to the Hilltop to work in USF’s Learning Center.
Professor Brunson is passionate about enriching student success and impacting student persistence through collaborative learning and peer leadership, making concerted efforts to cultivate individualized, equitable learning environments. She serves as the practicum coordinator for the HESA Program, and as an instructor for O&L 645: Practicum I in Higher Education & Student Affairs. Rachel is currently enrolled in USF's Organization & Leadership EdD program, intending to complete the "21st Century Leadership" track.
Expertise
- Peer Leadership
- Academic Support Services
- Student-Athlete Support Services
Appointments
- Commission for Recreation, Athletics, and Wellness Directorate Board Member, College Student Educators International (ACPA)
- Student Life Professional Development Committee, Division of Student Life, University of San Francisco
- University Appeals Board Member, Office of Student Conduct, Rights & Responsibilities, University of San Francisco
- Education Advisory Board (EAB) Implementation Council Member, University of South Carolina
- Peer Leader Advisors/Supervisors Network Directorate Chair, University of South Carolina
Education
- University of San Francisco, EdD in Organization and Leadership, in progress
- University of San Francisco, MA in Organization and Leadership with an emphasis in Higher Education and Student Affairs, 2013
- Notre Dame de Namur University, BA in English, 2011
Prior Experience
- Adjunct Professor in Higher Education and Student Affairs, School of Education, University of San Francisco
- Assistant Director, The Learning Center, University of San Francisco
- College Success: Successful Strategy course instructor, University of San Francisco
- Assistant Director for Peer Learning, Student Success Center, University of South Carolina
- Coordinator of Supplemental Instruction, Student Success Center, University of South Carolina
- University 101 (first-year seminar) course instructor, University 101 Programs, University of South Carolina
Awards & Distinctions
- UMKC’s International Center for Supplemental Instruction "Outstanding SI Program" Award, 2016
- Association for the Tutoring Profession’s "Peer Tutoring Program of the Year" Award, 2015
- NDNU Class of 2011 Undergraduate Commencement Speaker, 2011
- NDNU Saint Julie Billiart Award of Excellence, 2011
- NDNU Board of Trustees Award of Excellence, 2011
- Association for Orientation, Transition, Retention, in Higher Education (NODA) Outstanding Student Leader Award – Region II, 2011