TxGAP Award Recipients

Dana recently served as chair of the Chapters committee on the NAGAP Board of Directors supporting NAGAP’s 12 regional and special interest chapters. She is a Past-President of the Texas chapter (TXGAP), and has presented at previous NAGAP, Ruffalo Noel-Levitz, TxGAP and TACRAO conferences on topics related to graduate recruitment and enrollment management.

Dana Mordecai is the Assistant Director for Graduate Recruitment at the University of North Texas. For the past 17 years, she has served in recruitment, advancement, student services and admissions roles in the Toulouse Graduate School and now Office of Graduate Admissions, serving over 11,000 graduate students in 131 graduate programs. As an ambassador and graduate of UNT, she works with every level in the university on targeted recruitment activities and developing marketing and communications for prospective graduate students. Dana works across silos as a critical path to successful communications and events.

Dana has two grown children and helps her husband with the family ranch as she is able. After serving on many school booster clubs, she now looks forward to settling into an empty nest with her dog and plenty of peace and quiet.

Shaniece Miller has been in the profession of higher education for over 15 years and in graduate education for the last eight years. Shaniece currently serves as the Associate Director of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment at the University of North Texas at Dallas and has been a member of TxGAP/NAGAP since 2014. While being a member of TxGAP, Shaniece has served on the mentorship committee, SI planning committee, membership committee, presented at the TxGAP Summer Institute as well as serving as the Elections Commissioner for the past two elections cycles. Shaniece has served as Moderator and Recorder for NAGAP and has two published articles in the NAGAP Perspective and will represent TxGAP in the NAGAP Chapters open forum sessions this summer.

In addition to her contributions to TxGAP and NAGAP, Shaniece has also served as the Staff Council President for the UNT Dallas main campus as well as the UNT Dallas College of Law where she advocated for and served as the voice of all UNT Dallas staff members. This included meeting with the UNT Dallas President, UNT System Chancellor and Regent members often to discuss the overall wellbeing of staff members, needs, concerns, and trends. Shaniece was a member of the UNT’s system first leadership academy: Navigating Leadership and shortly after was nominated to be a part of Leadership Southwest; a leadership organization that recognizes and trains the most promising, civic minded leaders in the Dallas metroplex and prepares them to shape the future of the city of Dallas.

Shaniece has received multiple awards in regards to her service to graduate students and graduate education. Shaniece received the Excellence in Service to Students Award from the National Society of Leadership and Success in 2019, the UNT Dallas Staff Excellence Award in 2019, and the Outstanding Service to Students Award in 2023.

When Shaniece isn’t leading, inspiring, encouraging, and empowering others, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading, trying new restaurants, and traveling again some more!

Demetria R. Kelley is the Assistant Program Director of the MS Business Program at Mays Business School, Texas A&M University. She joined Mays in July 2019.

Demetria Kelley is a remarkable individual who exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding board member. Her unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and exceptional contributions make her truly deserving of the prestigious title of Board Member of the Year.

First and foremost, Demetria's dedication to her role as a board member is unparalleled. She consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty, investing significant time and effort to understand the organization's goals, challenges, and stakeholders. Her deep understanding of the industry and keen insights have been instrumental in guiding the board's decision-making process, leading to positive outcomes and sustainable growth.

Demetria's visionary leadership sets her apart from her peers. She possesses an extraordinary ability to identify emerging trends and adapt strategies accordingly. Under her guidance, the board has successfully navigated complex market dynamics, embraced innovation, and positioned the organization for long-term success. Her forward-thinking approach has not only ensured the board's relevance but also fostered a culture of innovation throughout the organization.

Furthermore, Demetria's exceptional contributions have had a profound impact on the organization's success. She has spearheaded numerous initiatives, leveraging her extensive network and expertise to forge strategic partnerships, secure funding, and drive transformative projects. Her outstanding negotiation skills and ability to build consensus have been instrumental in overcoming challenges and achieving collective goals.

Beyond her professional achievements, Demetria is a true advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She actively promotes and champions these values within the organization, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected. Her commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive environment has not only strengthened the organization's culture but also enhanced its reputation and stakeholder relationships.

Demetria Kelley's exceptional dedication, visionary leadership, and remarkable contributions make her a worthy recipient of the Board Member of the Year award. Her unwavering commitment to the organization's success, strategic foresight, and advocacy for diversity set her apart as an exemplary board member. Demetria's impact extends beyond the boardroom, leaving a lasting legacy that positively influences the organization and its stakeholders.