Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success

Welcome

Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success

Welcome to the Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success  - where student success is a priority!

Overview

 
Overview

The Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success works in collaboration with academic schools, deans, chairpersons, faculty, and campus-wide academic support programs of the University to provide continuous, quality support for undergraduate students from matriculation to graduation. The Office provides students at Claflin University with opportunities to learn and apply needed skills to achieve in college.

Mission

The Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success leads the overall retention initiatives of the University by maintaining collaborative relations across campus, supporting the instructional objectives of faculty, and advancing the educational retention efforts of the University. The Office is designed to promote and empower the academic, personal, and social development of all students that focus around faculty and student engagement for improving academic success, retention, and graduation.

Vision

The Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success is committed to becoming a nationally recognized retention office by being a model academic support program promoting undergraduate students’ academic preparation, transition and progress toward graduation. The Office offers a student-friendly environment where students gain knowledge of the fundamental study, social, and technological skills necessary for growth and academic success at Claflin University. The Office strives to promote greater success through improvement in student’ efforts, sense of purpose, scholarship, leadership, responsibility, accountability, personal pride and service to the greater community.

Goal

 
Goal

Aligned with the University strategic initiatives, the Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success goal is to increase student retention, and persistence to graduation with a focus on academic success and achievement through early intervention and systematic tracking of undergraduate students. As an advocate leading the University retention initiatives, the Office’s efforts are driven to:

  • Retain a diverse cohort of students
  • Promote and provide student retention initiatives that supports the University’s goal of 85%
  • Assist students in becoming a more independent, self-confident, and efficient learner.
  • Provide faculty resources and support to improve student learning and engagement in and out the classroom
  • Provide a centralized location to promote and support campus-wide retention initiatives
  • Enhance campus-wide partnerships and build advocacy for program initiatives that will contribute to the academic success and persistence of Claflin University students
  • Provide excellent customer service and support to Claflin University students and faculty who use Office services and programs

Values

 
Values

The Office of Academic Coaching and Student Success is committed and values the success of students. In its efforts to improve student persistence, we understand who students are and what they mean to us.

  • The Office treats individuals with respect and dignity
  • The Office demonstrates integrity and honesty in all of its programs and services
  • The Office takes responsibility for its decisions and actions
  • The Office encourages its students to embrace personal responsibility in their academic and social lives
  • The Office is committed to team work in which everyone is valued, treated with respect, and encouraged to contribute personally
  • The Office encourages its staff and students to aspire excellence and high achievement
  • The Office is dedicated to working tireless and countless hours to keep its commitment to its students and university community
Meet the Team

Academic Coaching and Student Success

This team directory is presented in a clean, structured format for easier reading, clearer roles, and quick access to contact information.

Assistant Vice President of Academic Coaching and Student Success

 
Assistant Vice President of Academic Coaching and Student Success

Dr. Alexia Bailey-Webb

 

Dr. Alexia Bailey-Webb (Dr. Lexi) was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in Paterson, New Jersey. As an immigrant, she grew up in a household where education was deeply valued. After earning her undergraduate degree, she proudly served in the United States Army. While deployed in Iraq during Operation New Dawn, she completed her Master of Arts in Education at Trident University International.

Though she enjoyed her military service, Dr. Bailey-Webb’s true passion has always been education and mentoring. Following her military career, she transitioned into higher education, where she dedicated herself to guiding students toward success. Her commitment to student achievement inspired her to pursue a Doctorate in Leadership in Higher Education at Northcentral University, where she also published research on Student Success and Persistence.

With more than 12 years of experience in leadership, academics, advising, and student success, Dr. Bailey-Webb brings both expertise and heart to her work. Beyond her professional life, she enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family.

Lead Success Coach

 
Lead Success Coach

Crystal Brailey

School of Business / Human Performance & Recreation / Sport Management

Crystal Brailey holds a Master of Education in Technology in Education from Lesley University and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from South Carolina State University. She brings more than 18 years of experience in higher education, including her leadership at Denmark Technical College as a Recruiter and Director of Enrollment Management. For over five years, she has served as a student success coach and now the Lead Student Success Coach here at Claflin University, where she is dedicated to empowering students by providing the guidance, resources, and support they need to achieve their academic and personal goals. Her commitment to student success reflects her passion for education and her belief in the transformative power of higher learning.

Success Coaches

 
Success Coach

Nadine McMillan

African American Studies / History / Philosophy & Religion / Spanish / Digital Design / Music / English / Mass Communications / Undeclared / Art / Integrated Studies

Nadine McMillan has proudly served at Claflin University for almost 18 years, impacting the lives of more than 5,400 students—an average of 300 per year. A Claflin alumna, she earned her undergraduate degree from Claflin University and later completed her Master’s degree at Webster University. Over the years, she has served as Administrative Assistant for the GEAR UP and Panther STEPS programs, Freshman Academic Advisor, Program Coordinator for Panther STEPS, UNIV Instructor, and Adjunct Professor. She currently serves as Student Success Coach for students majoring in Art, Art Education, African and African American Studies, History, Philosophy and Religion, Mass Communications, Music, Music Education, Digital Design, English, English Education, Integrated Studies, and Undeclared programs.

Nadine is certified as an Academic Life Coach, in Mental Health (Youth and Adult), and as an Appreciative Advisor. She also serves as a Notary Public for the State of South Carolina.

Beyond her professional career, Nadine is a faithful and active member of Orange Grove United Methodist Church in Bamberg, SC. She is also deeply devoted to her family, which includes two sons, Nathaniel and Nicholas; two grandsons, Nathaniel and Dominick; her granddaughter, Riley; and one special “great-grand fish,” Axeloti the Axolotl.

Success Coach

Cheryl Mack

Criminal Justice / Sociology (A-J) / Psychology (A-J) / Political Science (A-J)

Cheryl W. Mack is originally from Brooklyn, New York. She has worked in Higher Education for twenty-seven years. Her current position is Student Success Coach for the Department of Academic Coaching & Student Advising Success. When she is not working, she loves to read, cook, and be with family. She is active in her sorority Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and community. Her personal Motto: I might not be able to change reality, but I can change the way I view it. So, embrace the journey ahead. This is the beginning of your greatest adventure, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities to grow.

Success Coach

Shan’Nain Washington

School of Education / Sociology (K-Z) / Psychology (K-Z) / Political Science (K-Z)

Mrs. Shan’Nain Washington, a Charleston, South Carolina native now residing in Orangeburg, is a devoted wife of 12 years and proud mother of three. A two-time alumna of Claflin University and South Carolina State University, she holds a B.S. in Sociology and a Master’s of Education with a concentration in Counseling. With nearly two decades of experience in education, Shan’Nain has served as a Head Start Teacher, School Counselor, Career Development Facilitator, and now a Student Success Coach at Claflin, where she is passionate about empowering students, fostering mental wellness, and creating safe spaces for personal and academic growth.

Success Coach

Bridget Williams

Bioinformatics / Computer Engineering / Computer Science / Cyber Security / Management Information Science / Mathematics/ Applied Mathematics / Biotechnology / Biochemistry / Chemistry / Environmental Science

Bridget Williams began serving as a Student Success Coach in January 2025, driven by her passion for helping students reach their goals. As the founder of a nonprofit for foster children, she has dedicated her life to uplifting others and creating opportunities for success. A proud graduate of South Carolina State University, Bridget also brings professional experience from her time at MUSC and CSC. She is committed to guiding students with encouragement, support, and care.

Success Coach

Nijalah Worthy

Biology

Mrs. Nijalah Worthy serves as a Student Success Coach at Claflin University, where she is committed to fostering academic achievement, personal growth, and holistic development among students. In her role, she provides guidance and support to help students navigate their educational journey, remain aligned with their curriculum requirements, and achieve success both inside and outside the classroom.

A proud alumna of Claflin University, Mrs. Worthy return to her alma mater reflects her passion for giving back to the institution that shaped her own academic and professional path. She brings with her valuable experience as a middle school teacher and cheerleading coach at Chester Middle School, roles that strengthened her skills in mentorship, leadership, and student engagement. Through these experiences, she cultivated a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young learners, which now informs her work with college students.

Dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering environment, Mrs. Worthy is driven by the belief that every student has the potential to excel when provided with the right resources and encouragement. Her commitment to student success continues to inspire those she serves and underscores her dedication to Claflin University’s mission of preparing visionary leaders.

Interns

 
Interns

Siri Davis – Senior Accounting Major

Savion Williams –   Junior Sport Management Major

Our advising interns, roles blend front-desk responsibilities with behind-the-scenes support for the advising staff. On a typical day, they greet students, answer phone calls, and manage appointment scheduling, ensuring that the office runs smoothly and efficiently. Beyond reception duties, they assist with administrative tasks such as filing, data entry, and preparing materials for advising sessions. They’re often asked to help with special projects, whether it’s organizing events, updating student records, or creating informational resources. The position requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a proactive attitude, as our interns are frequently the first point of contact for students and staff alike.

Services for Students

 
Academic Coaching

Academic Coaching- a personalized support service that helps students develop the skills, habits, and mindset needed to succeed in their academic journey. Unlike tutoring, which focuses

on specific subject content, academic coaching emphasizes broader strategies for learning and personal growth.

This benefits students by helping them build essential skills for long-term success both in and out of the classroom. Through personalized guidance, students learn how to manage their time effectively, set achievable goals, and develop study strategies that match their learning style. This support fosters greater self-confidence and motivation, while also reducing stress by promoting organization and proactive problem-solving. Regular coaching sessions provide accountability and encouragement, empowering students to take ownership of their academic journey and overcome challenges with resilience.

Success Coaching

Success Coaching- a student-centered support service designed to help individuals thrive academically, personally, and professionally. It focuses on empowering students to set meaningful goals, build effective habits, and navigate challenges with confidence. Success coaches work collaboratively with students to enhance skills like time management, decision-making, and self-motivation, while also connecting them to campus resources and opportunities. The goal is to foster holistic growth and ensure students are equipped to reach their full potential.

Programs and Initiatives

 
Programs and Initiatives
  • “Let’s Talk About It” -
  • CU Stars (QEP Program) - Overview of Students Tracked, Advised, Retained & Succeed
  • Milestone Engagement Rewards- Coffee on Me, Swag Drop, Team Bonding Treat, Breakfast Bash
  • Workshops & Events- Panther Ready Day, UNIV 101 integration
Section Navigation
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Support the next generation of Claflin Leaders
Your support provides educational enrichment through student scholarships, loan funds, instructional classroom equipment, preparing Claflin's students to be leaders of the future.