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.
Jake Clough
Director of UndergraduateAcademic Advising
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.
Juan B. Rodriguez ’99
Director of Academic Program OperationsAbout 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
Director of UndergraduateAcademic Advising
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.
Scott Skrla ’08, MS ’19
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor III
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.
Michael Flores
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor III
Advisor for the BIMS Program at the Higher Education Center at McAllen (HECM)
About Michael
Michael serves as the Academic Advisor for Biomedical Sciences at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen. In his role, he also advises general studies students who are needing 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.
During his tenure at UTRGV, Michael spent several years as an academic advisor, where he excelled in guiding students towards 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 down time, Michael enjoys spending time with family, watching movies, and listening to music.
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.
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.
Emily Wiley ’20
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Emiley
Emiley joined BIMS Advising in Spring of 2025. Originally from Ohio, she moved down here for college and graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences From Texas A&M. She has experience with Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine Professional School. She has a passion for growing food and raising farm animals, along with sewing and woodworking. She has a dog named Ryder, two cats (Sadie and Lilly) and a rabbit (Callie). She is actively involved in church, with a passion to serve others!
Brooke Henss
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Brooke
Brooke joined the BIMS Advising Team at Texas A&M University in 2025, bringing with her a strong foundation in education and student support. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Prairie View A&M University in 2021 and spent four years teaching secondary education prior to transitioning into an Advisor role. Through her experience in the classroom, Brooke developed a comprehensive skill set in communication, organization, and student engagement—skills she now applies to her work in academic advising. She is passionate about helping students recognize their strengths, build confidence, and achieve their full academic and personal potential. Known for her relational approach and attention to detail, Brooke is committed to creating a supportive, student-centered advising experience.
Corinne Shepherd
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor II
About Corinne
Corinne joined the BIMS advising team in fall of 2025. She started her advising career at Texas A&M University in Transition Academic Programs (TAP) advising students through the change-of-major process. Originally from the Rio Grande Valley, she moved to College Station to fulfill her dream of being an Aggie. She spent her undergraduate years as a member of the Corps of Cadets where she developed a deep appreciation for the university and its traditions. She graduated in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and in 2024 with a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Corinne has a passion for helping students make the most out of their time at A&M. She considers it an honor to walk alongside students as they navigate their college journeys!
Michaela Armstrong
BIMS UndergraduateAcademic Advisor I
About Michaela
Michaela Armstrong joined the advising team in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University in Fall 2025, where she supports undergraduate students through academic planning and personal development. After completing EMT training, Michaela went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a minor in Chinese from Texas A&M University. She combines her global perspective with a strong passion for student mentorship. Raised in College Station on a farm with a variety of animals, Michaela brings a compassionate and grounded approach to advising. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, learning new languages, quilting, and serving at her local church.
Jacob Rasor
Administrative Associate VAbout Jacob
Jacob joined the BIMS advising team in May 2024 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Conservation Biology, with plans to continue into a Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering. He served six years in the U.S. Army, where he developed strong leadership, organizational, and time management skills, and discovered a passion for helping others succeed. Drawing on his computer expertise, Jacob navigates the advising office’s systems and programs to ensure students receive efficient, effective support. Outside of work, he has a deep love for wildlife—especially birds—so if you have an interesting bird fact or photo, feel free to share it when you stop by the desk.
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
