Devon Goodwin, B.S.Psych, MHP
Introducing Devon Goodwin, our esteemed Chief Arts Officer, who possesses a deep understanding of the importance of mental health and illness. Devon's personal experiences, which encompass a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety, serve as a driving force behind her unwavering advocacy for individuals grappling with mental health challenges. Her ultimate goal is to assure others that they are not alone in their struggles. Additionally, Devon boasts a solid background in Substance Misuse Prevention.
Hailing from Hayden, AL, Devon earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, accompanied by a minor in Sociology. Her passion for Criminal Psychology prompted her to pursue an additional degree in Criminal Justice. Throughout her academic journey, Devon actively participated in various influential roles such as the TRIO Student Advisory Council and the Student Counseling Services' Mental Health Advisory Board. She also took charge of organizing events like Break Away the Stress and Sip N Strokes.
Devon skillfully employs her ingenuity to explore novel and imaginative approaches to shed light on healthy methods of expressing one's personal mental health struggles. Simultaneously, she endeavors to raise awareness and impart knowledge concerning substance misuse prevention. Devon's captivating journey into the realm of creative arts commenced as a means to spend quality time with one of her closest companions, and since then, it has blossomed into an integral part of her identity.
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In her leisure time, Devon indulges in a variety of interests such as delving into books centered around serial killers and psychology, crafting poetry, immersing herself in soul-stirring music, and cherishing moments spent with her feline companion, Jasper.
Chief Arts Officer
Meet the STEAM Dream Team!
Cortice Miles II, B.Comm
Chief Communications Officer
Introducing Cortice Miles II, also known as Cagalli Miles II, our Communications Officer specializing in the Anime Industry. With a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting Communications from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Cortice brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. His passion for anime and media communication is evident in his extensive experience working with UABTV and Student Media.
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Cortice's dream of working in radio and television has become a reality, and now as our Communications Officer, he combines his love for anime with exceptional communication skills. Cortice assists us with panels, podcasts, and all things communication, effectively engaging with the anime community and industry.
His deep understanding of the anime landscape, coupled with expertise in media communication, allows him to provide valuable insights and strategies for promoting anime content and connecting with audiences. Cortice stays up-to-date with industry trends, conventions, and anime culture, making him an invaluable asset in crafting effective communication campaigns.
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Beyond his professional life, Cortice's passion for anime extends to his personal pursuits. He actively collects anime memorabilia, particularly on old video formats, showcasing his dedication to preserving the history and cultural significance of the medium.
ZemaArts
Artist Extraordinaire
Jayden Tate, widely recognized by his artistic alias ZemaArts, hails from the charming city of Oxford, Alabama. With an unwavering passion for art, Jayden has honed his skills in drawing over the course of nine years, starting from the tender age of third grade. Currently, he is embarking on an exciting educational journey at Samford University, where he aspires to pursue a major in the captivating fields of 3D Animation and Video Game Design.
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While Jayden possesses a versatile set of artistic talents, his expertise shines brightest in the realms of 2D animation and pixel art. With a keen eye for detail and a meticulous approach to his craft, he consistently delivers stunning visuals that captivate the viewer's imagination. Moreover, his aptitude extends beyond artistic endeavors, as Jayden has also developed a profound skill set in video game strategy. Armed with strategic thinking and a deep understanding of game mechanics, he excels in devising winning tactics and outsmarting opponents.
In the realm of self-care, Jayden embraces a personal motto that resonates deeply within him: "Roll with the punches, life moves on." This resilient mindset allows him to navigate through life's challenges with grace and adaptability, never losing sight of the bigger picture. Despite the hurdles that may arise, Jayden remains steadfast in his pursuit of personal and artistic growth.
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Beyond his artistic pursuits, Jayden finds joy in indulging his passion for drawing and exploring new games. These activities not only provide him with a creative outlet but also offer him an opportunity to continuously expand his horizons and refine his skills. A testament to his artistic journey, Jayden has created a distinctive art mascot named Casé, who embodies the essence of his artistic style and serves as a beloved symbol of his creative expression.
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Nolen Tanner
Therapeutic Musician
Nolen Tanner, known as the Melodic Maestro, is a talented musician with a passion for both Mathematics and Music Education. Currently pursuing studies in these disciplines, he recognizes the value of analytical thinking and artistic expression in shaping a well-rounded understanding of the world.
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Beyond personal growth, the Melodic Maestro has also found fulfillment as a music educator. With two years of teaching experience, he has shared his knowledge and passion with both youth and adult students. Nolen has guided three dedicated youth students and six enthusiastic adult learners, nurturing their musical abilities and fostering a love for music. His musical skills extend beyond playing instruments. His adeptness in sight reading allows him to effortlessly interpret musical scores, breathing life into the notes on the page. Furthermore, his ability to play by ear demonstrates a deep understanding of music's language, enabling him to express himself through spontaneous melodies.
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As an individual with autism, Nolen is a passionate advocate for autism awareness. He actively works to promote understanding and acceptance, using his platform to educate others about autism and to highlight the unique strengths and perspectives that come with it.
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Outside the realm of music, the Melodic Maestro finds joy in various hobbies. Video games provide a creative outlet and immersive storytelling experience. Dancing, particularly with Dance Central, allows him to express his love for music through rhythmic movement. He also finds solace and contentment in everyday activities such as cleaning, creating a peaceful environment for his artistic pursuits. Spending quality time with friends enriches Nolen's life, providing a supportive network that fuels his artistic endeavors.