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Meet the Staff

Michael Coombes, Associate Director

Michael is originally from outside Chicago, Illinois and began working at NC State in January 2008. He completed his undergraduate work in German and History at Miami University, and earned a Master's degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of South Carolina. Michael is a member of Delta Upsilon International Fraternity and spends his free time with his wife travelling and watching sports.

Jessica Criswell, Assistant Director

Jessica is originally from Cincinnati, OH and completed her Bachelor's of Science in Education at Ohio University in Athens, OH. She then moved to Greensboro, NC for her graduate degree in Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education.  After two and a half years working in The Office of Parent Programs at The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL, Jessica relocated to Raleigh in February of 2012 to work at NC State. Jessica brings experiences in orientation, Greek life, academic advising and judicial affairs to the office.  Outside of NC State, Jessica spends her time travelling, volunteering with Greek organizations, and exploring Raleigh.

Cameron Hill, Assistant Director

Cameron is originally from Charlotte, North Carolina and joined the New Student Orientation team in January 2011. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and completed her graduate work at the University of South Carolina earning a Master's degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs. Before coming to NC State, Cameron gained orientation experience at UNC-Chapel Hill, James Madison University, and Peace College. In her free time she enjoys exploring the Triangle and travelling with friends and family.

Gabe Wical, Director

Gabe is originally from Dayton, Ohio and has been working at NC State since 2000. He received both his of his degrees (Bachelor of Specialized Studies and Master of Education - College Student Personnel) from Ohio University. Before his work with New Student Orientation, Gabe was an adviser at NC State's First Year College and also worked for Special Olympics North Carolina. He currently lives in Apex with his wife and two kids.

Lori Wilson, Administrative Support Specialist

Lori is originally from Quincy, Illinois but has long considered herself a Southerner. She has been with New Student Orientation since 1999 and before that worked with Cooperative Education and The Honors Program at East Carolina University. She attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Lori is an avid basketball fan, the proud mother of three children, and the even prouder Nana of six grandkids.

Heather Johnson, Graduate Assistant

Heather is from Sanford, North Carolina and earned her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2010. At UNCW, she was involved in activities including Health Promotion peer education, Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, and Student Government Association.  Heather has begun her Masters program at NC State in Higher Education Administration and will graduate in May 2014.  Currently, she is the Graduate Assistant for New Student Orientation, Chapter Resident Adviser for Delta Zeta sorority, and member of the Higher Education Association.