Meet the Staff
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John-Breshaire (J.B.) Georges, Ed.D., M.S.Ed., M.Ed., M.A.
Born in Brooklyn, Dr. Georges spent much of his life and career in the New York City region before relocating to Texas in 2019. For more than two decades, he has worked in higher education with a deep commitment to helping students realize their potential, achieve their goals, and develop into lifelong learners.
Dr. Georges earned his Doctor of Education degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. He also holds a Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Administration from Baruch College of the City University of New York (CUNY) and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Tarleton State University. At New York University, he earned a Master of Arts in Culture and Communication and a Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Study. He began his academic journey at Pace University, where he earned an Associate of Arts in General Arts and Sciences.
Beyond his professional and academic pursuits, Dr. Georges values spending quality time with family and friends. His interests include drawing, music, entertainment media, the creative and performing arts, personal fitness, sports, travel, politics, community service, and exploring new skills, ideas, and areas of research. Although he remains a New Yorker at heart, he has embraced life in Dallas and is proud to call it home.
Dr. Georges also serves as one of Dedman College’s Cultural Intelligence Officers, contributing to efforts that foster greater cultural awareness, understanding, and engagement within the college community.
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Heather L. Sohara, M.Ed., B.A.
Heather relocated to Dallas from Pennsylvania in 2016. Before coming to Dallas, she worked as an academic coordinator at Lehigh University, where she also earned a master’s degree in Human Development. She later served as a graduation specialist at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Outside of work, she enjoys listening to podcasts, playing games, learning Queen and Disney songs on the flute, and spending time with her cats.
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Remonda Hammock, B.A.
Remonda joined SMU in 2010 and serves as Administrative Specialist I in the Office of Academic Services. With more than 25 years of experience as an administrative professional, she brings a strong background in higher education and a genuine enjoyment of supporting students, faculty, and colleagues.
Before joining SMU, Remonda worked at Vanderbilt University and the University of Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing, attending concerts, designing wedding and birthday party invitations, and listening to music.
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Katherine Villa-Diaz, B.A.
Katherine is a Dallas native and a graduate of Northeastern University, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic and Information Design. Before joining SMU and the Office of Academic Services, she developed a multidisciplinary background spanning design, community outreach, and student engagement. Her experience includes supporting university cultural centers, diversity initiatives, and youth programming.
Outside of work, Katherine enjoys scary movies, video games, traveling, and karaoke.
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Eva Calvario, B.A.
A Dallas native, Eva brings more than a decade of experience in education, supporting students from early childhood through high school in public, private, and charter schools throughout the Dallas area. Her background also includes extensive experience collaborating with and supporting faculty and staff.
Eva is a first-generation college graduate who earned her associate degree from Dallas College and her bachelor鈥檚 degree from the University of North Texas at Dallas.
Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and photography.
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Sacoria Stixrud B.S.
Sacoria joined SMU with several years of experience in education, student support, and administrative services. Her professional background includes teaching elementary and secondary students, where she developed engaging curricula, fostered inclusive learning environments, and built strong relationships with students and families. She also brings experience in administrative coordination, customer service, and case management, giving her a well-rounded perspective on helping individuals navigate complex processes.
Sacoria earned her bachelor鈥檚 degree from Nelson University. She is committed to helping students overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and feel supported throughout their educational journey. She especially values building authentic connections and creating environments where students can thrive both academically and personally.
Outside of work, Sacoria enjoys creating art, writing fantasy and gothic fiction, exploring mythology and folklore, attending concerts, playing games, visiting museums, and spending time with family, friends, and animals. She also has a strong appreciation for lifelong learning and creative expression.