Matt Trybus, M.Ed.

PASS Coordinator, Instructional Faculty

trybusmj@jmu.edu
Contact Info

Matt Trybus is the Coordinator of PASS. Matt holds an M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Administration from the University of Vermont, a teaching license from Saint Michael’s College, and a B.A. in History from the University of Montana. Prior to coordinating the PASS program, Matt served as Assistant Director of James Madison’s Office of Disability Services for 7 years. In addition to working with members of the JMU community to realize their potential, Matt is passionate about his family, friends, cycling, food, and balance.

Yang Liu, Ph.D.

PASS Coordinator, Instructional Faculty

liu38yx@jmu.edu
Contact Info
Website

Yang Liu is the Coordinator of Peer Assisted Study Sessions and an Assistant Professor in Psychology. She received her Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas Tech University. Her research interests include risk and resilience factors on the academic success of college students, socioemotional development in childhood and adolescence, and the effectiveness of educational technology. She is passionate about supporting student success both academically and emotionally. Outside of work, she enjoys playing educational and psychological games with her husband and three children.

Spencer Kirsch

Spencer Kirsch is the Graduate Assistant of PASS. She recently completed her undergraduate degree at Kenyon College, where she graduated with a B.A. in Psychology and Spanish. Spencer is a first year of the School Psychology program, where she will receive her M.A. in School Psychology and Ed.S. Spencer is passionate about learning and helping others and is excited to help support the PASS program. 

Tyler Green

Hello everyone! My name is Tyler Green and I am a senior from Roanoke, VA. I’m a Health Sciences major with a Pre-PA minor and this is my second semester being a PASS leader and first semester being on the PASS Leadership Team. Away from the classroom I am a member of the club golf team and in the Pre-PA club. I am so excited for this opportunity and I can’t wait to meet everyone!!

Maverick Shiflett

Hello everybody, I am so excited to be a returning PASS leader to Dr. Doyle! I am a first generation senior Biology major with a Pre-Dental minor from Waynesboro, VA! I am very passionate about the biological sciences (as well as dentistry) and making students feel seen and represented! I myself attended almost every session, found many great connections, as well as learned and practiced the fundamental principles of biology that have carried all the way through my undergrad career. I am so stoked to be on PASS leadership team and a PASS leader who is here to make your experience memorable and enjoyable! 

Avery Thomasson

BIO 140 - Prof. Susan Halsell

Hi! I am a biology major with a concentration in environmental science and an honors minor. I love to hike, camp, sing, and read. This is my first semester as a PASS instructor but I am very excited and willing to help so please reach out if you need help!

Ella Kraft

BIO 140 - Prof. Terrie Rife

Hi, I'm Ella! I am a sophomore biology major with a pre-physician assistant minor from Richmond, Virginia! This is my second semester as a PASS leader for BIO 140. I love hanging out with my friends, trying new cafes/restaurants, and being outside! Super excited for this semester!!

Kayla Wagner

BIO 140 - Prof. Tracy Deem

Hi everyone! My name is Kayla Wagner, and I am a sophomore Biology Major with a pre-med and honors minor from Mendham, New Jersey. This is my second year as a PASS leader, and outside of class, I am a part of Student Ambassadors and a sorority. I also enjoy cooking, hiking, and spending time with my friends in my free time! I am so excited to meet everyone!

Kimberly Kehlenbach

BIO 140 - Prof. Jaira Vasconcellos

My name is Kimberly Kehlenbach, and I am a senior biology major hoping to go to veterinary school! I am from Crozet, VA and I was a PASS leader for BIO 140 in the fall of 2025. I have also been a TA for the BIO 140 lab! Outside of school, I love thrifting, collecting antiques, crocheting, and taking care of my plants.

Maverick Shiflett

BIO 140 - Prof. Liz Doyle

Hello everybody, I am so excited to be a returning PASS leader to Dr. Doyle! I am a first generation senior Biology major with a Pre-Dental minor from Waynesboro, VA! I am very passionate about the biological sciences (as well as dentistry) and making students feel seen and represented! I myself attended almost every session, found many great connections, as well as learned and practiced the fundamental principles of biology that have carried all the way through my undergrad career. I am so stoked to be on PASS leadership team and a PASS leader who is here to make your experience memorable and enjoyable!

Cody Lamb

BIO 150 - Prof. Abby Goszka

My name is Cody Lamb, I am a junior psychology major with a pre-medicine professional track that has worked with professor Goszka for 2 semesters. I additionally am a Resident Advisor in Paul Jennings Hall and am more than happy to work with you if you cannot meet my scheduled times! Normally this looks like posting my materials on Canvas or posting recordings.

River Schleifer

BIO 150 - Prof. Ollie Hyman

Hi! My name is River and I'm a Sophomore Interdisciplinary major with a pre-dental and WRTC minor. My Interdisciplinary major is on the application of adaptable scientific literature and medical communication! This is my first semester being a PASS leader and I’m very excited to meet everyone!

Jackson Edwards

BIO 245 - Prof. Kristin Yoshimura

Hi my name is Jackson I am a Nursing major at JMU. This is my first time being a PASS leader., and I am excited for this opportunity At JMU I am also involved with the Stem Corps. In my free time I like to spend time with friends.

Peyton Ready

BIO 245 - Prof. Morgan Steffen

My name is Peyton and I’m a senior biology major with a pre-med minor. I didn’t grow up far from here, only an hour away in Winchester, Virginia. I have never been a PASS leader before, but I’m super excited to be doing it this year!

Ashleigh Bethea

BIO 270 - Prof. Jess Marquardt

Hi everyone! My name is Ashleigh and I’m a senior from Radford, VA. I’m a Health Sciences major on the Pre-PA track and this is my second semester as a PASS leader. Outside of class, I love finding new places to explore around Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley, and I’m a member of greek life on campus. I’m so excited to meet everyone and have a great semester with you all!

Gabriella Paliotti

BIO 270 - Prof. Jess Marquardt

Hey everyone! My name is Gabby Paliotti and I am a senior at JMU. I am from Rhode Island. I'm a Health Sciences major on the Pre-PA track and this is my second semester as a PASS Leader. Outside of class, I enjoy going to the gym and hanging out with my friends. I’m so excited to meet everyone and have a great semester with you all!

Tyler Green

BIO 270 - Prof. TJ Hynd

Hello everyone! My name is Tyler Green and I am a senior from Roanoke, VA. I’m a Health Sciences major with a Pre-PA minor and this is my second semester being a PASS leader and first semester being on the PASS Leadership Team. Away from the classroom I am a member of the club golf team and in the Pre-PA club. I am so excited for this opportunity and I can’t wait to meet everyone!!

Elizabeth Hodl

BIO 290 - Prof. Gavin Lawson

Hi! I'm Elizabeth and I'm a junior Psychology major with minors in Chronic Illness and Pre-Occupational Therapy. I'm from Chesapeake, VA, and this is my first semester doing PASS. Besides PASS, I'm the Vice President for HerCampus, and I love spending time outdoors! I'm so excited to meet everyone and be a resource to you!

Kylie Conway

BIO 290 - Prof. Marquis Walker

Hi! My name is Kylie, and I am a junior Health Science major with a pre-PA minor. This is my third semester being a PASS Leader for BIO290! Besides PASS, I am Secretary of the Women's Club basketball team, and I am also a part of the Student Organization Council. I am so excited to help students learn more about Human Anatomy!

Mia Grieco

BIO 290 - Prof. George Vidal

Hi everyone! My name is Mia Grieco, and I’m a Kinesiology major with a minor in Pre-Physical Therapy. I’m involved in the a cappella group The Black Ties, serve as the Vice President of the Pre-Physical Therapy Society, and I also sing jazz and love pickleball! I’m always happy to help anyone who needs it, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or if there’s anything I can do to support you!

Anthony Eskew

CHEM 120 - Prof. Trost

Hello! My name is Anthony Eskew. I am a junior biology major with a minor in pre-medicine. After I finish my bachelors degree I plan on getting a masters before applying for medical school. I look forward to hosting PASS sessions and getting to know everyone.

Isabella Cossio

CHEM 120 - Prof. Coplan

Hi!! My name is Isabella, and I’m from Bristow, VA. I am a sophomore nursing major with a minor in medical Spanish. I’m also an officer in my sorority, and a member in a pre-healthcare frat. In my free time, I love to read, go on coffee runs, and hang out with friends. This semester will be my first time being a PASS leader and I’m extremely excited to meet everyone, and help out in any way possible. Please always feel free to ask me any questions, I’m always happy to help!!

Matthew Gaskins

CHEM 120 - Prof. Lewis

Hi! My name is Matthew Gaskins, and I am doing PASS for Dr. Lewis' CHEM 120. I am also a double major in Biology and Health Sciences with a pre-medicine minor. This is my first semester as a PASS leader, but I have had experience working with students as a chemistry tutor at the Science and Math Learning Center. In my free time, I like to read, paint, take pictures, and occasionally go to the gym. I am excited to get to know all of you and help you all succeed.

Diya Chand

CHEM 131 - Prof. Caesar

Hi, I'm Diya, I'm a chemistry major with a pre-dental minor. I am a part of the Biology Honor Fraternity at JMU and enjoy hiking in my free time. I also have a pet parrot and enjoy playing Mario Kart with my younger brother!

Eric LaCava

CHEM 131 - Prof. Funck

Well, for those who are reading this... hello. My name is Eric; I'm a junior majoring in Kinesiology while minoring in pre-physical therapy. This is my first semester as a PASS leader for Dr. Funck, although I have assisted her for the last couple of semesters as an LA. My hobbies include gaming and pickleball, which I'm happy to say that I'm about average at both. I also love animals. I have a dog named Iggy who, honestly, I don't know too much about except that she's brown and likes pizza.

Gavin Short

CHEM 131 - Prof. Zhang

Hi everyone! My name is Gavin Short, and I am a Psychology Major with minors in Pre-Medicine and Biology. This is my 3rd semester as a PASS leader, and I am super excited for this semester. Outside of PASS, I am in the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad, BBB, VSA, Student Ambassadors, and help out in my psychology research lab. I look forward to getting to know you all!

John Breland

CHEM 131 - Prof. Tam

Hi everyone, my name is John Breland, and I’m a Senior with a Biology major with a minor in Pre-Medicine. I’m from Lynchburg, VA, and I enjoy working out, watching movies, playing guitar, and enjoying the outside! This is my first semester being a PASS leader and I am very excited to meet everyone!

Tyler Jencks

CHEM 131 - Prof. Wilson

Hi! My name is Tyler Jencks and I'm a sophomore Biology major with honors and pre-physical therapy minors. I am from Chantilly, Virginia and I love being outdoors, whether that is playing sports or hiking, and I also love to relax and play video games.

Riley Graul

CHEM 132 - Prof. Liu

My name is Riley Graul. I am a sophomore chemistry major from Irmo, South Carolina. In my free time, I like to run, crochet, and spend time with my dogs! This is my first semester as a PASS leader for Dr. Q, and I am so excited for this opportunity!

Zoe Verbanas

CHEM 132 - Prof. Blumling

Hello! I am a third year biology student with Pre-Dental and Honors minors. This is my first semester as a PASS leader but I have worked multiple semesters as a TA for other courses. I am involved with the TriBeta biological honor society, Pre-Dental society, microbiology research, and club swim team here on campus. Please feel free to reach out!

Cameron Page

CHEM 241 - Prof. Caran

Hi everyone! My name is Cameron and I am a senior chemistry major from Poquoson, VA. This is my first semester as a PASS leader and I look forward to working with everyone! Beyond PASS, I am also involved in research in the chemistry department and am a member of BBB. In my free time, I enjoy reading and crafting. I am excited to meet everyone and have a great semester!

Diana Pellerin

CHEM 241 - Prof. Hollinsed

Hi! I am a senior Health Science major with a Pre-PA minor. This is my first semester doing PASS, but I am so excited to help everyone in Organic Chemistry with Dr. Hollinsed! Outside of class I do research with Dr. Hollinsed and volunteer at the hospital. I am so excited to meet everyone and have a great semester!!

Maab Mohamed

COB 191 - Prof. Ehsan Teymourian

This is my first year as a PASS Leader, and I’m so excited to help other students succeed in the course! I’m also a tutor for the Student-Athlete Program and am involved in the Financial Professionals Club, as well as the Black College of Business. Outside of academics, I enjoy traveling, baking, and meeting new people!

Jack McFarlin

COB 291 - Prof. Kiarash Hassani

Hey everyone! My name is Jack and I am from Reston, VA. This is my second semester as a PASS Leader with Professor Hassani. I am a Finance and Accounting double major, and I look forward to meeting everyone. Outside of PASS I play Ultimate Frisbee and I enjoy hanging out with my friends and skiing.

Kavin Baskaran

COB 291 - Prof. Luis Novoa

Hello Everyone, I am a PASS leader for Cob 291 for the second semester now. Its been a lot of fun being able to help students. I find it to be a great environment for students to really refine their technical knowledge of business analytics as this is a collaborative way to practice that helps everyone learn.

Michael Karjavine

COB 291 - Prof. Luis Novoa

I am a junior majoring in Finance and Computer Information Systems with a minor in Honors Interdisciplinary Studies. Alongside being a returning PASS leader I will also be serving as the treasurer of all Club Sports at JMU this semester under UREC. Hope to see you at PASS sessions!

Samuel Borror

COB 291 - Prof. Kamal Lamsal

My name is Samuel Borror although I commonly go by Sam. I am currently a Junior CIS major who's interested in breaking into sales after college. This will be my first semester as a PASS leader and i'm really excited to get to work! I like to think i'm a fairly relaxed individual who really enjoys hanging out with friends, especially when outside. You can catch me outside of PASS sessions at lake Newman skipping rocks, on the golf course, or on my bike around campus.

Sarah Anderson

COB 291 - Prof. Hoda Atef-Yetka

My name is Sarah, and I'm an accounting major. This is my first year as a PASS session leader. I love the outdoors, biking, hiking, lifting, swimming, watercoloring, design, and performing arts!

CS 149

Ava DeWald

MATH 110 - Prof. Chris Willingham

Hello everyone! My name is Ava DeWald, and I am from Haymarket, VA. I am a Junior Elementary Education Major with a Minor in TESOL. This is my third semester as a PASS leader for Professor Willingham’s Math education courses. With that said, I am very excited to meet you all! Get ready for a great semester : )

Kiersten Coleman

MATH 110 - Prof. Jenny Gibson

Hi! My name is Kiersten! I am an Elementary Education major and a Coaching Education minor. This is my third semester leading PASS and I am doing it for MATH 110 with Prof. Jenny Gibson. MATH 110 was one of my favorite classes so I am super excited. I am also a leader for Delight Ministries at JMU.

Rebecca Stout

MATH 110 - Prof. Alexis Stevens

Hi! My name is Rebecca Stout, and I am from Winchester, VA. I am a Junior Elementary Education major with a minor in TESOL and Mathematics for Teachers. This is my second semester being a PASS leader for Steven's Math 110 course. Outside of school, I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with friends. I am looking forward to a great semester!

Taylor Franzen

MATH 155 - Prof. Rachel Koch

Hello! My name is Taylor Franzen! I’m a junior accounting major leading MATH155 PASS this fall. I’m involved on campus as a brother of Phi Chi Theta professional business fraternity and work as a Madison Advising Peer in JMU’s College of Business Advising Center. I can’t wait to work with you this semester!