Lura Jones

Public Communications Specialist

Durham

Joined NCSSM in July 2026

Lura Jones joined NCSSM as the Public Communications Specialist for Extended Learning in July 2026 after working at the school as a contractor from 2022 to 2026. She brings a diverse background in K–12 education, strategic communications and marketing, with experience across a variety of organizations. At NCSSM, Lura’s focus is on developing communications and marketing efforts that help recruit and engage students from across North Carolina for Step Up to STEM and other Extended Learning programs. She is passionate about expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities and believes every student deserves the opportunity to discover and develop their potential through STEM education. Lura earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and communication studies from Clemson University. Outside of work, she enjoys playing golf with her husband, traveling, and creating watercolor paintings and black-and-white sketches.


Extended Learning

Gina Barrier

Director of Summer Programs and Extended Partnerships

Josh Blackburn

Assistant Director for Summer and Extended Programs

Camilla Brothers

Director of Instructional Leadership

Rob Caldwell

Instructional and Information Designer

Candice Chambers

Teacher Development Specialist

Gerri Cole

Associate Director of STEM Access and Outreach

Crystal Davis

Program Assistant

Ryan Donaldson

Office Manager

Taylor Flach ’18

Assistant Director of Summer Programs

Susan Gantt

Associate Manager of Summer Programs

Caíla Holley ’13

Associate Director of STEM Mentoring

Hannah Isley

Partnership & Student Support Specialist

Jamie Lathan

Vice Chancellor for Extended Learning

Laura Martinez

Assistant Director of STEM Access and Outreach Programs

Morgan Pittman

Instructional Designer and Curriculum Specialist (Morganton)

Blake Reed

Assistant Director of Summer Programs

Suzanne Sikes

Instructor of Biology (NCSSM Connect)

Alicia Stokley

Director of Summer Programs and Extended Partnerships

Chris Thomas

STEM Instructor, Experiential Learning Lead

Joyce Ventimiglia

Digital Media and Instructional Manager

Crystal Woods

University Program Specialist; Staff Senate Chair