Temeshia Lemons

Biography

Dr. Temeshia N. Lemons serves as the Director of Advising in The Discovery Program at Montclair State University, where she leads strategic advising initiatives for undeclared undergraduate students. In this role, she oversees a team of academic advisors and success coaches, manages advising operations, and implements data-informed strategies that support student retention, timely major declaration, and overall academic success. Her leadership emphasizes proactive advising, early intervention, and cross-campus collaboration to ensure students receive coordinated support throughout their academic journey. 

Dr. Lemons brings over 20 years of experience in higher education, with a sustained focus on advancing student success through inclusive and student-centered practices. Prior to her current role, she served as Assistant Director of Advising and Academic Advisor, where she contributed to the development of advising campaigns, first-year seminar programming, orientation initiatives, and peer mentoring programs designed to strengthen student engagement and persistence. 

In addition to her administrative leadership, Dr. Lemons serves as an Adjunct Faculty member at Montclair State University, teaching both New Student Seminar courses within Undergraduate Education and Interpersonal Relations in Family Science and Human Development. Her teaching focuses on fostering self-awareness, effective communication, and reflective learning, aligning with her broader commitment to holistic student development. 

Her scholarly work centers on equity in academic advising, with a particular focus on the importance of representation and culturally responsive advising practices. Her doctoral research, Representation Matters: The Importance of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Students Identifying with Academic Advisors, informs her approach to building inclusive advising environments that promote belonging and persistence among diverse student populations. 

Dr. Lemons currently serves as President of the Association of Deans and Directors of University Colleges and Undergraduate Studies (AD&D), where she works with national colleagues to advance best practices in undergraduate education, advising, and student success. Through her leadership, scholarship, and service, she remains committed to strengthening advising practices, supporting student success, and advancing equity in higher education.

Education

• PhD, Liberty University
• MEd, Salisbury University
• BA, Ramapo College of New Jersey