Emily Harmon

Old Dominion University

Coordinator for Outreach & Admissions

I first learned about VCAN through SCHEV's Level Up newsletter in 2022 and was immediately impressed by its practical resources and scholarships (check it out). After attending my first VCAN Conference in Fall 2023, I quickly became an advocate, encouraging colleagues to join because of the conference’s shared language, commitment to access, equity, and an intentional focus on student success.

A proud TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) alum from Old Dominion University, I then spent eight years serving TRIO SSS at ODU creating opportunities, removing barriers, and ensuring students felt seen, valued, and supported. That work, inspired by the care and advocacy I received as a first-generation, Pell-eligible student with a disability, shaped my belief in pairing ideas with action to advance access to education and increase social mobility for our students and their families. I bring insight into student experiences navigating college successfully, how to maneuver around systemic barriers, and enthusiasm for engaging policymakers and community leaders. I am committed to advancing VCAN’s mission and supporting the entire VCAN community through this work.

Cheers to student success!