Institute for Engagement, Mission and Impact

Javita Thompson is the Interim Vice President for Engagement, Mission and Impact at Elizabethtown College. She supports collaboration between the community and the campus in a variety of efforts. She also provides opportunities for civic education and engagement at Etown. She has experience in management, leadership, and higher education. Her primary goal is supporting all students with an emphasis on marginalized populations and their communities.

In her work as an adjunct faculty member at Etown, she centers her curriculum around student success and cultural humility. She also has experience teaching communication courses at Millersville University and Shippensburg University. She has facilitated book discussions on “White Fragility”, by Robin DiAngelo, and “So You Want to Talk About Race” by Ijeoma Oluo and co-presented at the National First-Year Experience in Washington, D.C. on “Cross-Campus Collaboration”.

A first-generation college graduate, Javita earned her Bachelor of Science in communication and her Master of Science in Emergency Management from Millersville University and a second master’s in Education Leadership from Shippensburg University.

Darcey Mills has dedicated nearly 20 years to higher education, serving in various roles across student support, enrollment management, diversity initiatives, and institutional advancement at Elizabethtown College. In his current role as Director of Student Opportunity, Access and Engagement, he leads initiatives designed to empower students with marginalized identities, ensuring they have the resources, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities necessary to thrive. Through innovative and student-centered approaches, he works to enhance retention, foster belonging, and create equitable pathways for historically underrepresented students.

Darcey also advises the Intercultural Board and Student Assembly, providing guidance on student-led programming that promotes inclusivity and cross-cultural engagement. A proud alumnus of Elizabethtown College, he holds a bachelor’s degree in human services and a master’s degree in strategic leadership. His vision for campus life includes vibrant and accessible intercultural programming that encourages meaningful dialogue, fosters understanding, and celebrates diverse perspectives, ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

Maria works directly with international students throughout the student life cycle, from prior to arrival to post-graduation work authorization. She assists international students in acclimating to the educational, cultural, and social differences between their home countries and the U.S. through directed programming, workshops, and events. Maria has a B.S. in communications and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Trevecca University.

Brianna supports students and community partners through experiential learning and civic engagement. She is passionate about student success, mentorship, and building strong community connections. A two-time graduate of Elizabethtown College, she holds a B.A. in Communications and an M.S. in Strategic Leadership. Her background includes roles in esports, economic development, staffing, marketing, and student support.

Dr. Shannon Haley-Mize completed doctoral study in special education with an emphasis in emotional and behavioral disorders at The University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg and has been involved in the study of peace education for several years. As part of this work, she co-teaches a course on peace education that includes a short-term study abroad trip to Belfast and partnered with a local school to start the PeaceJam afterschool program for middle school students. This program involves a group of middle school students in studying the Nobel Peace laureates, issues around identity development and conflict resolution, and design of a community service project.

Jaime Ramos II serves as the Study Abroad Advisor within the Center for Global Understanding and Peacebuilding. He provides logistical support during the student visa application process, carrying out workshops focused on global readiness training, and establishing long-term practices for second language-acquisition. Jaime provides holistic and academic support for all students during the pre-departure, on-site arrival, and post-departure study abroad process.

Throughout his professional career, Jaime has worked in multiple advising capacities, both domestically and internationally. Domestically, Jaime has worked in Enrollment Affairs Divisions at Central Penn College and York College of Pennsylvania. Internationally, Jaime lived in Peru for two years, where he served as a Peace Corps Volunteer through the Youth Development Sector.

Jaime is an alumnus of Elizabethtown College, where he graduated in 2018 with his B.A. in Communications. Jaime is also an avid world traveler who has visited over 15 countries in 4 continents. He believes that international education is a gateway to learning about the world around us, and it is his hope to support each and every Elizabethtown College student in the most impactful way through his advising work in the Center for Global Understanding and Peacebuilding.