Program Leadership
James D. Herman, DVM ’89, PhD ’95, MS ’01
VMBS Associate Deanfor Undergraduate Programs
Presidential Professor of Teaching Excellence;
University Professor of Undergraduate Teaching Excellence; and Clinical Professor, Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology (VTPP)
About Dr. Herman
As a recent graduate of Texas A&M with his DVM, Dr. James D. Herman left College Station to practice in San Antonio. In practice, he found he spent more time explaining what was happening with people’s animals than actually treating them. When the opportunity arose for James to return to Texas A&M to further his veterinary training, it also required him to teach courses. While he enjoyed working with animals, he found he had an aptitude for explaining things to students. Through teaching, he realized that he could have a bigger impact on the health of humans and animals than he could as a solo practitioner. He joined the VMBS faculty as an Instructor in Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology (VTPP) in 1996. Herman has won several major teaching awards, including the Association of Former Students Distinguished Achievement Awards for Teaching Excellence—both at the College and University levels. In May 2016, he earned the title of Presidential Professor of Teaching Excellence. In 2024, he became the VMBS Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs. He has served as the Chair of the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee, on the Faculty and Student Advisory Board of the Center for Teaching Excellence, as a member of the Aggie Honor Council, and as a faculty advisor for student organizations. Because of his love for the outdoors and backpacking, he also volunteered as a local Scout Leader. Herman and his wife have three children.
Juan B. Rodriguez ’99
VMBS Undergraduate Programs ManagerAbout Juan
With 20 years of experience in higher education, Juan has dedicated his professional career to fostering educational effectiveness and high academic achievement, a love and passion that he inherited from his father. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Mays Business School at Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from New York University. Currently, he is pursuing an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration and Leadership. His professional journey includes significant contributions at a NASA University Research Center in Florida, where he helped manage operations and advance research initiatives. Throughout his career, he has advised both graduate and undergraduate students, guiding them towards achieving their academic and professional goals. Juan has been instrumental in establishing successful educational programs across the United States, including in the South Bronx, Chicago, and Milwaukee, where he managed operations and development to help ensure the smooth operations of these programs. He has also taught Business and Spanish courses at various academic levels. He is proud of his Venezuelan heritage and is married to Mariana. They have two loving daughters—Carmen and Marianita, whom they love to spend time with and, when possible, at the beach.
Academic Advising Services
Jake Clough
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advising Manager
About Jake
With over a decade of dedicated experience in higher education, Jake demonstrates a commitment to fostering student success and academic excellence. Recognized for exceptional contributions, Jake has been honored with the President’s Award for Academic Advising and the President’s Meritorious Team Award, reflecting a deep dedication to both individual student development and collaborative achievements. Holding dual master’s degrees in Bioethics and Divinity, he combines a rich academic background with a profound understanding of ethical and social dimensions in education. This unique perspective enhances the ability to connect with and support students from various backgrounds, building positive rapport, and guiding them toward their academic, career, and personal goals. Currently advancing through a PhD program in Higher Education, Jake has completed all coursework, further solidifying a scholarly foundation for contributing to the field. With a passion for helping students succeed, Jake remains steadfast in the mission to create impactful educational experiences and support every student in reaching their full potential.
Samantha Eaton
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor IV
About Samantha
With over a decade of experience in higher education across universities in Florida and Oregon, Samantha brings a wealth of expertise in academic advising, program management, student support, grants, and at-risk programs. Her commitment to excellence has been recognized through nominations for Staff Member of the Year and Student Success awards. In addition to her higher education experience, she served in the US Navy, where she earned commendations for outstanding service. In her role, she oversees the organization of New Student Conferences, provides comprehensive training, and offers guidance to a diverse range of students within the BIMS program.
Brittany Schultz ’14
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor III
About Brittany
Brittany joined BIMS in Spring 2024. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Development from Texas A&M and is a proud member of the Class of 2014! She earned her Master’s Degree from The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) in 2018 with a Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with an emphasis in Higher Education Administration. She has worked at Blinn College in Bryan, where she was the Student Activities Coordinator and served as the advisor for the Student Government Association. At Texas A&M, Brittany has advised in several departments across campus, including the Corps of Cadets, Mays Business School, and now BIMS. Brittany enjoys student development theory and loves encouraging students to step outside their comfort zone during their academic journey. She is a dog mom to Bowie, her 5-year-old Mini Aussie, is a huge Aggie sports fan, and is getting married in April 2025.
Scott Skrla ’08, MS ’19
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Scott
Scott is a lifelong learner and educator. He worked in the Bryan Independent School District for 12 years, teaching a mixture of Advanced Placement and Social Studies courses to students ranging from freshmen to seniors. Be it advising or teaching, his philosophy has always remained the same, empower students with the tools and knowledge they didn’t even know they needed so that they can take advantage of all opportunities that cross their paths. Scott is from a stoic household that preaches work hard, do your job, and don’t be a jerk. Outside of teaching/advising, his main interests include PC gaming, exercising, finding the best boba tea, and teaching his puppy Phantom how to be a gentledoggy so that he can go to work with his dad.
Billy Wansitler, MA ’14
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Billy
Originally from north of Pittsburgh, Billy is now adjusting to the infinitely hotter Texas climate and the friendly “Howdy” greetings. When not advising students, Billy loves supporting his wonderful wife, Jasline, whether it be with roses from Trader Joe’s, date nights at Post Malone concerts, or Airbnb getaways at national parks. At home, Billy desperately tries to keep up with their energetic one-and-a-half-year-old, Psalm, and their cockapoo, Baker, who combined have the energy of baby Tarzan, a neutron star, and Woodstock ’69. For Billy, students are the heartbeat and the very best part of his position. He could not be more thrilled to be a part of the BIMS team or honored to be a part of Texas A&M!
Saori Rivera
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Saori
Saori graduated from Texas A&M University. She enjoys assisting students and helping them reach their full potential. An avid animal lover, there is not a heartfelt animal movie that does not stir her senses. Saori is happy to help students through advising and having a positive impact.
Joy Carolina Mejia
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Joy
Raised in Huntsville, Texas, Joy earned a Bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Spanish from Sam Houston State University. With extensive experience in customer service and working closely with people, she brings a wealth of interpersonal skills to her role. Her passion for language and communication drives her commitment to supporting students as they navigate their academic journeys. Outside of work, she loves spending time outdoors and enjoys watching movies. A strong faith plays an important role in her life, and she is actively involved in her church community. Joy is dedicated to providing personalized guidance and creating a supportive environment where every student can thrive. When she’s not advising, you might find her blowing bubbles, practicing card tricks, or entertaining people with her balloon animal creations!
Chikamnele Onyema, MA ’24
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Chikamnele
Chikamnele is from the Igbo ethnic group of West African Nigeria where she was born and raised. She received her undergraduate degree in Public Administration from Imo State University, Nigeria, and began her career as a high school teacher. During her time as a teacher, she engaged with students both inside and outside of the classroom. This role enabled her to refine her skills in communication, active listening, and problem-solving. To build on Chikamnele’s expertise and ability to support students, she earned a Master of Art in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University. This advanced education provided her with both theoretical and practical knowledge crucial in helping college students set and achieve their academic goals. Her core values of optimism, humility, and resilience serve as the basis of her advising approach and further guide her toward creating an environment of growth, trust, and inclusivity. In Chikamnele’s leisure time, she loves to dance to Afrobeat, create art, and explore YouTube content.
Michael Flores
BIMS UndergraduateMcAllen Academic Advisor III
About Michael
Michael is the Academic Advisor for BIMS at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center at McAllen. In his role, he also advises general studies students who need to complete coursework necessary for entrance into a specific major course of study. Michael holds a Master’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Library Science. With over 15 years of experience in higher education, Michael has made significant contributions at institutions such as South Texas College and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). During his tenure at UTRGV, he spent several years as an academic advisor, excelling in guiding students toward their academic and career goals. His diverse educational background and extensive experience in both business and library science enable him to optimize educational processes and manage information resources effectively. Michael is passionate about fostering student success and enhancing the educational experience for all. In his downtime, he enjoys spending time with family, watching movies, and listening to music.
Jacob Rasor
Administrative Associate VAbout Jacob
Jacob joined the BIMS team in May 2024 and is currently pursuing a BS in Cybersecurity. He hopes to push that further into a master’s program from the Bush School. He served in the US Army for six years, learning through leadership that he enjoys helping people get where they need to be. Jacob’s experience comes from his computer background, helping him deal with all the programs the advising office has to efficiently help students. His organizational and time management skills were learned throughout his Army career. Jacob has a passion for animals, especially birds, so if you have any cool bird facts or pictures, please bring them to the desk when you check in for advising.
Location of Texas A&M Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS)
Contact Us
Biomedical Sciences (BIMS) Undergraduate Program
Mailing Address:
4461 TAMU
College Station, TX 77843-4461
Physical Address:
668 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy.
College Station, TX 77845
Advising:
To schedule an appointment with an advisor, use the Navigate app.
Office:
VIDI (#1813) Bldg. | Suite 123
Veterinary & Biomedical Complex