Meet the Team

Director of Advisement | Hudson Scholars Co-Lead
She/Her/Hers
Email: gschulthesFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Gretchen Schulthes works as the Director of Advisement at Hudson County Community College. As part of her work, she co-leads the Hudson Scholars Program, an innovative student support initiative which has yielded increased retention and revenue in its first year. In addition to her work at HCCC, she is an Adjunct Instructor in Montclair State University’s Family Science & Human Development department and an active researcher within the counseling profession. She has published articles in peer-reviewed journals, as well as encyclopedia entries and a book chapter. She holds a PhD in Counseling from Oregon State University and an MA in Counseling from Kean University.

 

Director of Institutional Research | Hudson Scholars Co-Lead
He/Him/His
Email: jurgolaFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

John Urgola serves as Director in the office of Institutional Research and Planning at Hudson County Community College. As part of his role as Co-lead of Hudson Scholars, John conducts ongoing evaluation and assessment aimed at improving the scope and effectiveness of the program. In addition to his roles at HCCC, John has previously worked as a Student Success Counselor, Athletics Advisor, and Adjunct Professor of Psychology and Communication. Additionally, John has been a practicing Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of New Jersey for over 10 years. John strongly believes in the community college mission of access and opportunity, and as a first-generation college student himself, values the role a program like Hudson Scholars can play in helping new students acclimate to college life. He holds an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an MA in Communication from Monmouth University.

 

Assistant Director, Advisement Student Services Operations
He/Him/His
Email: aadlerFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hey, I’m Andy! I’m from Queens, NY but have bounced around the country before returning to the New York area. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida in Advertising and Public Relations. I then went to the University of West Georgia for my Master's degree at in Professional Counseling with a focus in College Student Affairs. After, I lived in Washington state and New York City before landing at HCCC. I have a Housing and Residence Life background, so I’m excited to branch out in a new area of advising. I believe Hudson Scholars provides an amazing opportunity for students to connect with Academic Counselors to enhance their experience. I enjoy playing baseball and football, going on walks with my dogs, and watching TV. A fun fact about me is that in graduate school, I was an intramural champion in indoor soccer and indoor volleyball. I’m looking forward to connecting with students and being part of the Hudson family!

 

Assistant Director of Advisement, Program Operations and Development
She/Her/Hers
Email: mjohnsonFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hey, I’m Mackenzie. I’m from Massachusetts and love all things New England. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Rhode Island College and taught second grade for a little while before deciding I wanted to work with college students instead. I then earned my Master’s Degree in Higher Education from Merrimack College and moved to Hudson County shortly thereafter.  I spend my free time exploring New York City, playing card games, reading dystopian novels, and going to tons of concerts! One of my favorite aspects of live music is the storytelling, which I love bringing into my work with Hudson Scholars. I love this program because of the relationships I get to build with students - we can share stories about accomplishments and obstacles, all while setting up a path to success at the college and beyond. I’m excited to be part of your support team and am looking forward to meeting you!

 

Assistant Director of Advisement, Data and Assessment
She/Her/Hers
Email: eryanFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hi I’m Elizabeth! I am originally from Kentucky where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Louisville. I moved to Georgia for graduate school and earned my Master’s degree in College Student Affairs at the University of West Georgia. I have experience working in campus housing, admissions, and now academic advising. I love working at HCCC because I believe that the school truly is dedicated to supporting students however it can - a mission I want to work towards as well. I am a huge nerd (my cat is named after a Harry Potter character) and I will happily geek out with you about whatever your fandom is. In my down time I love to read, explore NJ, and spend time outside. I'm looking forward to being part of your support team!

 

Academic Counselor
He/Him/His
Email: rbradyFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m a New Jersey native and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Montclair State University. I continued at Montclair State University to earn my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Forensics. I’ve spent much of my career working in forensic and correctional psychology research labs; additionally serving in therapist roles working with individuals with severe mental illness as well as substance use disorders. I’m excited to be able to bring my skillset to working directly with college students. I love working at HCCC because I genuinely enjoy helping students identify and achieve goals, and being a part of their success story! In my spare time, I love to play jazz/blues/funk guitar, collect vinyl records, and catch as many live music and live comedy shows as I can! I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your support network. 

 

Academic Counselor
He/Him/His
Email: sdejesusFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hi. I am Shuang. Like many others at HCCC, I have taken the long route to get here. I didn’t start my college journey until 11 years after graduating high school. In between that time, I held a wide variety of jobs from working at a pizza shop to being a used car salesman. That last job was what convinced me to go to college because I wanted more stability. I was tired of feeling like I was settling for whatever job I was offered instead of building a profession.  I earned my Associate’s degree at Union College (formerly Union County College) and my Bachelor’s degree at Seton Hall University, both in Communications. Then, I earned my Master’s degree in Higher Education at Caldwell University. I jokingly say I enjoyed college so much that I turned it into the career I’ve always wanted. I began my higher education career in the admissions office, then moved into financial aid, and now academic counseling. I’m happy to be at HCCC because I can help students like me find their way. In my free time I read historical fiction, grow my sneaker collection, and enjoy my season passes to NY Red Bulls and Seton Hall basketball games.

 

Academic Counselor
She/Her/Hers
Email: sjohnsonFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hello there, I'm Shaheedah! I am a passionate advocate for mental health and community well-being. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, with minors in both Social Work and Child Advocacy from Montclair State University. My academic journey continued with a Master's Degree in Social Work, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Practice, from Simmons University. Beyond academia, I find joy in exploring the culinary world, constantly on the lookout for new and exciting restaurants to try. Fueling my love for literature, I also lead a vibrant book club, fostering a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for storytelling and intellectual discourse.Committed to making a positive difference, I dedicate my free time to community service projects, working hand in hand with my beloved sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Whether it's advocating for social justice or creating initiatives that uplift the community, I believe in the power of collective action and support to create lasting change and I intend on providing you with the greatest amount of support possible!

 

Academic Counselor
He/Him/His
Email: jmariscalFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hello! I am Josh Mariscal and I am happy to serve as an Academic Counselor in the Hudson Scholars Program! I am from Bloomfield, New Jersey, and have lived there my entire life. I obtained both my Bachelor’s in Communication Studies and Master’s in Higher Education at Montclair State University. Throughout my time at Montclair State, I had the opportunity to serve in a variety of positions as a student leader ranging from advising and mentoring to leading student orientation. I’m excited to provide students with opportunities to support their success in a more personal way.  A fun fact about me is that I am a big Marvel Cinematic Universe nerd and will gladly detain everything I am doing to talk about it!

 

Academic Counselor
She/Her/Hers
Email: sscrivenFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE

Hello! My Name is Shamina Scriven, and It is an honor to be an Academic Counselor for the Hudson Scholars Program at Hudson County Community College. I began my educational journey as a first-generation college student in the EOF program at New Jersey City University. I consider myself a natural educator, and I have always desired to be a helping professional. My passion for counseling and education inspired me to complete a Master's degree in Human Service: Marriage and Family Therapy. I also hold an Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership and Administration from Saint Peter’s University. I am an advocate of self-care and self-awareness. My favorite quote is - "Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” by Aristotle. This quote defines me as a professional. I am a qualitative researcher. My interests are student wellness, resilience, and well-being.