Brian Kapinos, Ed.D.

(he/him)

Courses taught: EDLR 5122 - Foundations of Higher Education and Student Affairs

Bio: Brian Kapinos holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Hartford and serves as the Interim Executive Director of Advising Operations and Strategy for Connecticut State Community College. Dr. Kapinos has worked in higher education for the over 10 years, holding various roles in academic advising and academic affairs as well as several adjunct faculty roles within the Massachusetts Community College system. Dr. Kapinos is also a part-time faculty member in the Doctoral Program for Educational Leadership at the University of Hartford. Finally, Dr. Kapinos’ research focus is on advising systems, middle management, and the coordination of advising services within community colleges and serves as a reviewer for several academic journals including the NACADA Review, Journal of College Student Retention: Research, Theory and Practice, the Journal of Applied Research in the Community College, and others.

Stephanie Simpson

Courses taught: EDLR 5126 - Inclusion and Equity in Higher Education and Student Affairs

Bio: Stephanie Simpson is a current Ph.D. student in the Neag School's Learning, Leadership, and Education Policy program. She grew up in Virginia and relocated to the New England area to pursue doctoral studies and to be with family. She is not a fan of the cold, but thinks fall in New England is absolutely gorgeous and underrated. Previous to enrolling in the Ph.D. program, Stephanie worked in multiple programs, including local county government as a counselor working with at-risk youth involved with juvenile courts, family services, and mental health for nine years. Her passion for helping others on the front lines sparked her interest to see how she could evolve her career and skills into other areas like research. In her spare time, she likes to build Legos, exercise, and relax (aka a little TV/movie binge). Enjoying hobbies outside of academia helps keeps her balanced, grounded, and motivated in and outside the classroom.