Meet the Staff
Kara S. Rice, MPS
Director of mcnair scholars
Kara S. Rice (she/her/hers) is a student affairs professional with a diverse background in student support, academic administration, advocacy, and DE&I. She currently serves as the Director of McNair Scholars at The Chicago School. As a former McNair participant herself, Kara leads cross-departmental strategies and efforts to develop and nurture the academic and graduate journeys of scholars within the Ronald E. McNair Baccalaureate Achievement Program. She began her journey here at The Chicago School in 2019 as a Student Support Counselor and an ADA Liaison – serving students on the DC Campus.
With close to a decade of experience in student advising in higher education and over ten years of experience in administrative assistance and patron experiences, she has a passion for providing white glove service to students in order to enhance post-secondary experiences within higher education. Kara graduated summa cum laude from Delaware State University with her bachelor's degree in psychology and received her Master's in Clinical Psychological Science from the University of Maryland: College Park. On the other end of the spectrum, she is an active visual artist who participates in exhibitions all around the DC Metropolitan area!
Contact:
[email protected]
202-706-5036
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Charlene higgins, ma
assistant director of student success
Charlene Higgins (she/her) is dedicated to supporting learners to leverage their strengths, address barriers, and progress toward their unique goals. She brings experience in student-centered advising and program development, as well as strategies to foster engagement, connection, and belonging. In addition to Charlene's background in student affairs, she brings experience from the nonprofit sector, where she has managed various community development and economic empowerment programs. Charlene graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a bachelor's degree in anthropology and a Master of Arts in Community Development Policy & Practice.
Charlene is deeply committed to serving every student with diligence, sensitivity, and care, while showing up as an invested partner in their success. Outside of the office, she enjoys gardening, kayaking, and exploring the outdoors with her two dogs.
Contact:
[email protected]
202-706-5044