Colman Okechukwu Nwokoro
Academic Research Assistant
***************@*****.*** • 847-***-****
LinkedIn • Milwaukee, WI 53222
Accomplished professional with a robust background in advancing scholarly research and promoting diversity within academic settings. Demonstrated success in enhancing the participation of underrepresented groups in NIH-funded programs, such as the U-RISE initiative, leading to increased PhD applications in biomedical sciences. Authored and published impactful research on peace studies, interreligious dialogue, and social justice in esteemed academic journals. Proficient in managing complex research projects, organizing academic events, and mentoring students. Adept at contributing to research institutes and international organizations like the UN, CARE, Human Rights Watch, and Common Ground. I am committed to leveraging research, program management, and academic writing expertise to drive meaningful contributions to academia and global research initiatives.
Areas of Expertise
● Academic Research & Analysis
● Organizational Leadership
● Event Planning & Coordination
● Diversity & Inclusion Initiatives
● Project Coordination
● Diversity Advocacy &Peace, Dialogue, Justice, and Inclusivity Promotion
● Program Management
● Student Engagement & Tutoring
● Research Support & Administration
Professional Experience
Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
Graduate Research Assistant and Diversity Assistant
2020 — Present
Publish multiple academic works, including a journal article on Peace, Dialogue, and Migrants and Refugees across journals in Africa, Asia, and America and a book review of Mobility, Mobilization, and Counter/Insurgency in the Journal of Peace and Justice Studies. Assist in the design and execution of research studies, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to draw meaningful conclusions and insights. Collaborate with a diverse team of researchers and faculty members to brainstorm ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and refine research methodologies. I organize and facilitate diversity workshops and events to promote inclusivity and cultural awareness within the academic community. Coordinate outreach initiatives and networking events to engage with students, faculty, and external stakeholders on diversity-related topics. Provide administrative support by scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, and maintaining databases and records for research projects and diversity initiatives.
●Spearheaded the publication of the U-RISE Newsletter, providing consistent updates and communications within the Department of Biomedical Sciences.
●Orchestrated and coordinated guest speaker events for U-RISE scholars, enhancing their learning experience and professional networking opportunities.
●Conducted initial reviews of U-RISE applications, ensuring high-quality submissions for further evaluation by faculty.
●Increased PhD program applications among underrepresented groups by organizing and leading initiatives to promote engagement in the NIH-funded U-RISE program, fostering participation in biomedical and neuroscience research.
University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN
Teaching Assistant
2018 —2020
Enhanced student engagement through effective classroom instruction, grading, and dynamic teaching methods, significantly improving academic performance and fostering a positive learning environment. Assisted in developing and delivering engaging lesson plans and educational materials to enhance student learning outcomes. Collaborated with lead instructors to analyze student progress, identify areas for improvement, and implement tailored support strategies. Managed classroom activities, including group work, discussions, and practical exercises, to support student engagement and comprehension. Graded assignments, tests, and projects promptly and gave students constructive feedback to aid their academic development. I organized and maintained classroom resources, materials, and equipment to ensure a conducive learning environment.
●Provided administrative support and mentorship to students, honing communication, time management, and adaptability skills.
Stella Maris Comprehensive Secondary School, Ehime Mbano, Imo State
High School Principal
2015 —2018
Increased enrollment from 20 to 130 students by implementing strategic leadership and organizational improvements. Spearheaded the development and execution of innovative academic programs aimed at enhancing student learning outcomes and academic performance. Fostered a positive school culture by actively engaging with students, teachers, parents, and the wider community to promote a supportive and inclusive educational environment. Analyzed student data, identified areas for improvement, and implemented targeted strategies to address academic challenges and enhance student success. Implemented and enforced disciplinary policies and procedures in alignment with school guidelines and educational regulations to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment.
●Collaborated with teachers and curriculum specialists to develop and implement a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that met the diverse needs of students.
●Conducted regular staff meetings and professional development sessions to provide ongoing training, support, and feedback to enhance teaching practices and student engagement.
●Oversaw the school budget, allocated resources effectively, and managed financial operations to ensure fiscal responsibility and optimize educational programs and services.
●Achieved a 90% success rate in external examinations via targeted academic development and core curriculum enhancements.
●Led infrastructural development to 80% completion, significantly improving the school’s physical and educational resources.
Education
PhD. in view in Religious Studies (Systematic/Ethics)
Marquette University - Milwaukee, WI August 2020 to Present
Master’s in theological studies in Theology (Moral Theology)
University of Notre Dame - Notre Dame, IN August 2018 to May 2020
Professional Diploma in Education (PDE) in Education
College of Education and Technical - Umunze, Anambra State March 2012 to May 2014
Bachelor of Divinity (B.D)
Seat of Wisdom Seminary, an affiliate of Urban University Rome October 2006 to June 2010
Bachelor of Philosophy (B.Phil.) in Philosophy
St. Joseph Seminary-Ikot Ekpene October 2000 to June 2004
Certification/Licenses
Human Rights Education Training United States Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR), Washington DC
Teaching Certification Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN)
Professional Diploma in Education
Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).
Additional Information
Grant recipient of Fellowship Award from the Marquette University Center for Peacemaking to conduct independent research on an Inclusive peace process at The Kukah Centre in Abuja, Nigeria Summer 2024.
Sponsored Conference presentation by both the Marquette University and St. Mark's College, the University British Columbia Vancouver on the paper: " Migrants and Refugees: A Great Resource for Social and Economic Growth in Pope Francis's Teaching." May, 2023.
Sponsored conference presentation by Marquette University and Bernadin Center at Catholic Theological Union on the paper topic: "Ubuntu" and "I am because You are": An Approach for building relational Solidarity in Light of Fratelli Tutti. September 2022
Sponsored Conference presentation at the Catholic University for Easterner Africa, Nairobi, by the University of Notre Dame on the paper topic: "Preaching Mandate: The Moral Conscience of Society." --- Feb., 2020