About Us

Chelsea Creaturo is a proud USF St. Petersburg graduate with a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies, concentrating in Anthropology and Psychology. She has a decade of experience in higher education, including roles in institutional effectiveness as a Research Analyst, in academic operations as a Registrar, and in national survey research focused on student and institutional outcomes. Her interdisciplinary background informs a holistic and data-informed approach to understanding student experiences and translating insights into inclusive, student-centered strategies that strengthen campuswide success initiatives.

Christy is dedicated to supporting students at every stage of their academic journey. As a first-generation college graduate, Christy understands the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating higher education, and she strives to meet students where they are while helping them continue forward on their path. She is a dedicated and strong advocate for students, committed to going above and beyond to provide the support and guidance needed for their success. She strongly believes that students can succeed when given the right encouragement, support, and access to resources.

Her professional background reflects over 20 years of experience in higher education, including serving as an instructor in ESL and GED programs, where she supported diverse learners in building foundational skills and confidence. She later spent many years as the Midwest regional admissions recruiter with the University of South Florida before transitioning into her role as an Academic Advocate. She earned her Bachelors of Science from Elmhurst University and her Master of Science from Benedictine University.

Christy looks forward to getting to know you, supporting your growth, and walking alongside you as you persist and progress toward your academic goals.

Marketa has more than 15 years of administrative experience with the university and is passionate about supporting students’ success. Her areas of expertise include admissions counseling and advising, recruitment, and enrollment services for undergraduate and graduate students. She is a Saint Petersburg native and a USF alum for her undergraduate and graduate education. Marketa has worked for USF for nearly 20 years.

Sheila Goethe is a Coordinator of Advising in Undergraduate Studies on the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus. She is a member of The National Association for Academic Advisors and a USF alum. She has worked in higher education since 1987 and at USF for over 25 years. During her tenure at USF, she has worked on various committees including the Academic Regulations Committee, the Council for Academic Advisors, the Undergraduate Council, and the Southeastern Association of Colleges and Schools.

James Walker comes to USF St. Petersburg from Saint Leo University where he served as an Undergraduate Student Advisor and a Graduate Student Advisor. In his previous roles he led committees on re-entry student retention as well as the training committee. Prior to Saint Leo University he was a staff member at Hillsborough Community College serving in the Registrar’s Office as well as in admissions/advising for the Ybor City campus.

In the role of Academic Advisor II, James is responsible for all programs in the College of Behavioral and Community Sciences which includes Criminology and Forensic Studies & Justice (not accepting new students). The responsibilities of this role include program advising, graduation certification, orientation presentations, assigned student initiatives, and data/metrics analysis and collection.

James earned his undergraduate degree in International Relations from Eckerd College (St. Petersburg, FL), a Master’s Degree in Political Science from USF (Tampa Campus), and a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity from Saint Leo University (Tampa, FL).