I am a two-time graduate from the University of West Alabama (BS in English ‘10, MS in Student Affairs in Higher Education ‘16). After working as an academic advisor and career advisor at UWA for 7 years, I moved to the Shoals and joined the UNA family! My role at UNA as Assistant Director of Academic Advising is to ensure that students have a great start to their academic career and have access to the resources they need to be successful. In my spare time, I volunteer as chapter advisor for my sorority and spend time with my husband, daughter, and two dogs!  

 My advice to UNA students is don’t be afraid to ask questions and connect with faculty and staff on campus! We’re all here to help you achieve your goals and want this to be a great experience for you!

My full name is Jose Victor Figueroa-Cifuentes. I graduated in '18 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Security Emergency Management. As an undergraduate, I was involved in multiple organizations: The LaGrange Society, Student Government Association, Delta Chi Fraternity, HCO, HSO, and more. I am bilingual (Spanish and English) and took some French and Arabic classes at UNA. I have also completed my Master of Science in Criminal Justice. On my free time, I enjoy calligraphy, jogging with my dogs, and making hand-poured luxury candles. Roar Lions!

Ms. Erin M. Wittscheck

Academic Advisor

CASE - Arts & Humanites majors

My name is Erin Wittscheck and I’m an Academic Advisor in the University Success Center here at UNA. I graduated from UNA in 2010 with a BS in Human Environmental Sciences, Culinary Arts and I have recently graduated (Spring 2022) from UNA with a M.Pr.S. in Higher Education Administration. After working in kitchens in both Nashville and Florence, I returned to my alma mater to be a part of helping students reach their own goals. When I’m not on campus, you can find me hanging out with my husband and little girl or playing with my best dog pals, Butters and Gus!

My advice to students: Work hard to fulfill your dream! Roar Lions!

Mr. Jayce Thornton

Academic Support Specialist

Kinesiology, Science and Math majors

My name is Jayce Thornton, and I’m an Academic Support Specialist here in the University Success Center. I am a graduate of UNA, finishing with a BS in Criminal Justice in December of 2021. I am currently pursuing an MBA with a concentration in Information Systems here at UNA as well. I have a strong passion and love for this university and helping students achieve their academic goals. My advice to students is to make the most of your time here at UNA. Stay on top of your studies, and make friends and connections that will help you succeed well after you graduate from UNA.