Susan Colon

Position: Speech Lab Director; Affiliate Professor, COM

Education: 

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Communication and Psychology - Western Michigan University
Master of Arts (M.A.) Communication – University of Kentucky
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Health Communication – University of Kentucky

About Susan: Susan brings several years of higher education teaching and leadership experience to the GV Speech Lab and to the School of Communications. She previously taught communication courses at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Northeastern Illinois University, and Wilbur Wright College-City Colleges of Chicago. She has deep respect for peer leadership and peer coaching and is always curious about what students are investigating for their class projects and co-curricular activities. With regard to speechcrafting, Susan believes that with a good structure and a skill for writing “for the ear” speakers can deliver a powerful message in just 5-6 minutes. Outside of GV, Susan enjoys live music and theater performances, visual arts, interior design, cooking, and outdoor exploration. 

Alyse Cross

Position: Student Director

Major: Master of Public Administration (MPA) with an emphasis in policy and advocacy

About Alyse: Alyse is a creative individual with a passion for communication and connection. With an undergraduate degree in Communication Studies, a minor in Writing, and a certificate in Intercultural Communication, she enjoys helping individuals find their voice, especially in the early stages of presentation preparation. When she's not teaching cocktail classes at New Holland or helping others with public speaking techniques at the Speech Lab, you can find her crocheting, enjoying live music, cooking up new recipes, and exploring different cultures through travel.

Dallas Mathews

Position: Assistant Student Director 

Major: Dual enrolled in a combined degree: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Integrative Studies (Communication Studies and Nonprofit Administration) with a certificate in Leadership; Master's in Higher Education

About Dallas: A third-year undergraduate student, Dallas is passionate about helping students thrive in higher education. With plans to work as an academic advisor and eventually pursue a role as a Dean, she is dedicated to fostering academic success and leadership development. Outside of her studies and consulting at the Speech Lab, she loves to spend her time cooking and baking, volunteering, shopping, traveling, and embracing the outdoors whenever the weather is warm. A proud Michigander, Dallas has a deep appreciation for the Great Lakes, Faygo, Vernors, casseroles, and the iconic phrase "Ope."

Emma Phillips

Position: Executive Assistant

Major: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Advertising and Public Relations

About Emma: Emma is a sophomore majoring in Advertising and Public Relations where she gets to channel her creativity into crafting compelling ad campaigns for her classes. As the Executive Assistant in the Speech Lab, she’s always ready to help with a friendly smile. Emma is the office’s go-to joketeller, always bringing the best laughs. She also keeps the Speech Lab candy jar stocked with the best treats for everyone to enjoy! Outside of work, she can be found trying out new local cafés, playing The Sims, scrolling on her iPad, or spending time with her adorable cat named Toast! 

Katie Redmond

Position: Consultant 

Major: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Communication Studies 

Minor: Theatre

About Katie: Katie is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Theatre at GVSU. She also has a passion for film. At the Speech Lab, she enjoys working with her peers to help them prepare speeches and become more comfortable with public speaking and conversation. When she's not busy with classes, work, or acting, you can find her watching scary movies, taking short walks on the beach, thrifting, collecting rocks from outside, or spending time with friends and family.

Emily Schroeder

Position: Consultant 

Major: Double major Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Broadcast Journalism and French

About Emily: Emily is a creative and outgoing sophomore who thrives on meeting new people. With a love for storytelling and performance, she enjoys bringing characters to life through voice acting and hopes to turn her hobby into a career one day. When she’s not behind the mic, studying, or consulting at the Speech Lab, you can find her swing dancing in downtown Grand Rapids, singing jazz with PAC, or playing video games. Always seeking new adventures, she will be spending her entire junior year studying abroad in France. Fun fact: She has never owned a pet!