About Our Founder

John McAvoy is a passionate advocate for student success, first-generation empowerment, and inclusive education. 

White male in glasses in suit and tie with a green background

A Little About Me

Fun Fact: I’m currently learning how to become a DJ and have an interest in performing at weddings, events, etc. I have a rather electic taste in music ranging from classical to hip-hop, to EDM (electronic dance music). 

Favorite quote: “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself” – John Dewey 

Family: I have been married for 9 years and have twin 20-year-olds (boy and girl), and a 10-year-old daughter.   

Personal Journey

From a young age, I found myself deeply enamored with the joy that learning brings. I can still picture myself wandering around the house, a pencil in hand, filled with curiosity about how and why things worked. This natural eagerness to understand the world around me eventually guided me to college. However, this journey was not without its hurdles. Mental health challenges, including Anxiety and Depression, have been steadfast companions throughout my academic pursuits. Being diagnosed with ADHD later in life was another chapter of learning resilience for me. 

My path took an unexpectedly profound turn when I was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a rare neurological disease, during my doctoral program—an experience that tested my limits and nearly cost me my life. Through every struggle and setback, I have come to realize that resilience is born from navigating these difficult moments. No matter the obstacles life throws our way, it’s crucial to hold on to hope and never give up. 

As a first-generation student that stepped into the immense landscape of one of the largest universities in the United States, I completely understand how easy it is to feel lost and overwhelmed. I often joke that the only time I reached out to an Academic Advisor during my undergraduate years was in my last semester, just to confirm that I was on track to graduate. It’s a little humorous now, but it really highlights how unaware I was of the support available to me—something I wished I had known earlier.

Thankfully, I found the motivation within myself to navigate the university’s requirements and figure out which courses I needed to take on my own. I can relate to the feelings of uncertainty and isolation, and I truly believe that seeking help can really make a difference in this journey. 

In light of the ongoing and unfortunate cuts to funding in higher education around the world, we understand that many essential services are at risk. These services play a crucial role in supporting students on their academic journeys. It’s disheartening to see how these reductions can affect the assistance that students desperately need. I’m here to help bridge that gap by providing timely and personalized services tailored to your unique needs.

Particularly in larger universities, admissions officers often find themselves overwhelmed, trying to manage the demands of a high volume of prospective students. This can make it challenging for them to offer the individual attention each student deserves. Moreover, we recognize that many of these essential services are only available during standard business hours. This poses a significant barrier for many students, particularly those balancing classes, full-time jobs, childcare, and other family responsibilities.

As a service deeply committed to personalization, we pledge to be readily accessible through various communication platforms, ensuring you can reach out for help whenever you need it. Your success is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Education  

  • Ph.D. in Education with a focus on Adult Organizational Learning & Leadership from the University of Idaho. ​ 
  • M.S. in Corporate Organizational Communication from Northeastern University. ​ 
  • M.Ed. in Education from the University of Florida. ​ 
  • B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida. ​  

Professional Certifications & Trainings

  • Master Trainer Certification, Association for Talent Development
  • Consulting Skills Certification, Association for Talent Development 
  • Certified Online Instructor (COI), Learning Resources Network 
  • Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Certified Practitioner 
  • Disney Institute: Disney’s Approach to Employee Engagement (Selection, Training, Communication, and Care)”

Publications & Presentations 

Academic Publications

Teaching Experience

Faculty

  • COM 101: Public Speaking, Eastern Gateway Community College
  • COM 105: Interpersonal Communication, Eastern Gateway Community College
  • EDUC 1300: Learning Framework, San Antonio College
  • EDHI 200: Introduction to Personnel Services in Residence Halls, Ball State University

Associateships/Assistantships

Graduate Courses

  • AOLL 507: Future of Education and Work, University of Idaho, (Teaching Associate)
  • CSPA 5002: Current Issues and Trends in Higher Education, Nova Southeastern University
  • (Teaching Associate)
  • CSPA 5004: Administration in College Student Affairs Work, Nova Southeastern University, (Teaching Associate)
  • PSB 3002: Physiological Psychology, University of Central Florida, (Teaching Assistant)
  • SDS 3480: Student Development in a University Setting, University of Florida, (Teaching Assistant)

Higher Education Administrative Experience

  • Associate Director of Admissions, Texas A&M University-San Antonio
  • Assistant Director of Student Conduct, University of Texas-San Antonio
  • Assistant Director for Training, Development, and Recruitment, Texas Tech University
  • Housing & Residence Life
    • Area Coordinator, Nova Southeastern University
    • Residence Director, Northeastern University
    • Residence Hall Director, Ball State University

Elevated Academic Coaching & Consulting