College of Engineering Office of Student Services appoints two directors

Janet Moore
Janet Moore

Janet Moore has been selected as director of academic advising for the Office of Student Services in the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering and Jessica Taylor has been named director of recruiting and scholarships, according to Bob Karcher, assistant dean.

Moore joins Auburn University from Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama, where she served as the university’s director of academic enhancement and tutoring services. Before that, she was the coordinator of academic support for student-athletes.

Prior to working at Jacksonville State, Moore was a psychometrist and instructor at Westbrook Christian School in Rainbow City, Alabama, and Donoho School in Jacksonville, Alabama. As a psychometrist, she administered and interpreted educational assessments in order to create admissions, placement and individualized education plans.

“I am extremely thrilled to be given the opportunity to serve Auburn engineering students,” Moore said. “I am passionate about student learning and success, and I hope to be an integral part of our vision to provide our students with quality student-learning centered experiences. I believe advising is a form of teaching, which helps students develop the academic behaviors and skills known to foster student success.”

Moore is a member of the National Academic Advising Association and National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletes. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in psychometry from Jacksonville State University and a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Alabama.

“Dr. Moore brings a wealth of experience to student services and her record of professional accomplishments, coupled with her personal qualities, positions her to be an outstanding addition to the College of Engineering,” Karcher said. 

Moore moves into a position that was held by John Raines, who retired Dec. 31.

“We are very appreciative of all of the motivation, support and mentoring John has given to our students for the past 14 years,” Karcher said.

Jessica Taylor
Jessica Taylor

Taylor, who previously served as undergraduate student recruiter in the Office of Student Services, has been named director of recruiting and scholarships.

Taylor earned a bachelor’s degree in polymer and fiber engineering and a master’s degree in public administration, both from Auburn University. She was named Polymer and Fiber Undergraduate Engineering Student of the Year in 2009 and Public Administration Graduate Student of the Year in 2011.

In her new role as director, Taylor oversees the department’s recruiting efforts and is responsible for the coordination and distribution of scholarships within the college.

“It’s an exciting time to be a part of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve in this position,” Taylor said. “I am passionate about recruiting the best students to the college and am looking forward to providing scholarships that will help open doors to unlimited possibilities.”

The office administers undergraduate student scholarships totaling more than $2.1 million and provides tutoring and academic advising, counseling and scheduling services. Faculty and staff members also serve prospective students by coordinating undergraduate recruitment through college fairs for high school students, on-campus visitation days and other activities.

“Jessica is exceptional and we are fortunate she will be leading our recruiting and scholarship efforts,” Karcher said. “As one of our outstanding engineering graduates, she is able to provide invaluable insight and support to prospective students.”

Prior to Taylor’s appointment, Mary Lynn Saidla served as coordinator of scholarships in the College of Engineering for 16 years until her retirement Dec. 31.

“We offer our profound gratitude to Mary Lynn, who has served our students and the Auburn community with uncommon dedication and passion throughout her career at the university,” Karcher said. 

Media Contact: Gail Riese, gail@auburn.edu, 334-844-3447

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