Student Directors

Sophia Rios-Wallis is a Junior pursuing a combined Bachelor's and Master's degree in Accounting. As President of the Professional Leadership Program, she is committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where members can further their knowledge and leadership skills. PLP has greatly contributed to both her professional and personal development, allowing her to form meaningful bonds with mentors, industry professionals, and fellow members.

In addition to the Professional Leadership Program, Sophia currently works as an ACCESS Peer Mentor within Orientation and Transition Programs, where she regularly meets with and connects first-year students to UNT's resources. She has been heavily involved in various on-campus roles, with leadership experience as a Parent Ambassador for Orientation, Housing Desk Clerk in multiple residence halls, and Hall Council Executive Member. Her involvement has taught her the importance of servant leadership, and has given her the opportunity to help and work alongside others. In her free time, Sophia enjoys singing, playing video games, and spending time with friends and family

Kate is a Human Resource Management major and transfer student in the College of Business. She currently serves as the Director of Community Relations for the Society for Human Resource Management and is completing an HR internship with the City of Murphy, where she is gaining hands-on experience in public-sector HR and community-focused initiatives.
Long-term, Kate plans to leverage her HR foundation, leadership experience, and organizational strengths to transition into project management. She is passionate about building effective systems, supporting people, and leading initiatives that create meaningful impact.

PLP plays a meaningful role in her college journey, helping her step out of her comfort zone and strengthen the communication and leadership skills essential for professional success. She strongly values personal development and believes any skill can be learned through intention, effort, and curiosity. Through PLP, Kate hopes to inspire others to embrace growth and recognize their potential.

Outside the classroom, Kate enjoys painting, reading, thrifting, and spending time with friends!

Natalie is a Junior Marketing major in the Professional Selling Program at the University of North Texas, graduating in the spring of 2027. She is currently working part-time as a real estate agent specializing in property management while being a full-time college student. She currently serves as a Marketing Director for PLP and enjoys serving those around her. She is involved on campus, serving as a member of the North Texas Sweethearts and actively participating in the UNT Pickleball Club, which has strengthened her sense of community and leadership.

Maryam is a Junior Marketing major at the University of North Texas, with a focus in Luxury Beauty & Fashion. She aspires to build a career in Digital Marketing or Branding and is deeply passionate about the Luxury Industry. Through her participation in the program, Maryam has honed her public speaking, business strategizing, and teamwork skills, evidenced by her McKinsey & Co. Case Study award, and expanded her professional network. She is excited to take on an SD role to empower others through servant leadership, connect with like-minded individuals, and continue developing new skills. Outside of UNT, Maryam enjoys travelling, shopping, and exploring cinema.

Daniel Jubert is a junior in the College of Merchandising, Hospitality & Tourism, majoring in Hospitality Management with a minor in Marketing. Now in his second semester with the Professional Leadership Program (PLP), Daniel serves as the Student Director of Marketing, where he is dedicated to expanding PLP’s visibility and helping more students benefit from the opportunities the program provides. Throughout his time in PLP, Daniel has strengthened his communication, leadership, and adaptability skills while engaging in meaningful mentorship and professional development experiences. He is committed to using his creativity and initiative to contribute to PLP’s continued growth. Outside of his academic and leadership roles, Daniel enjoys running, producing multimedia content, and cooking—interests that allow him to express creativity, stay active, and connect with others.

Mia is a senior majoring in Marketing and Criminal Justice with a minor in psychology. After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in corporate law. She is actively involved on campus through Phi Alpha Delta, a pre-law fraternity, and serves as a Life Group Leader with Chi Alpha Campus Ministries.

PLP has been a transformative part of Mia's college experience. This program strengthened her communication and leadership skills, grew her confidence, and provided invaluable guidance, especially through her mentor. Now serving as a Student Director, Mia hopes to help others build authentic relationships and experience the same personal and professional development she found through PLP.

Outside of academics, Mia loves spending quality time with friends and family, staying active, and traveling whenever she can.

Sneha is a Business Analytics major in the College of Business, known for her strengths in leadership, communication, and organization. As a transfer student, she has quickly become an active part of campus life, serving as a Student Assistant in the Department of Management, taking on the role of Social Coordinator for the Professional Leadership Program, and leading as Vice President of Pledge Education for Delta Sigma Pi. She is also a committed member of Women in Business.

Driven by a strong belief in personal development, Sneha encourages her peers to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new challenges, convinced that consistent effort is the key to building any skill.

Outside her academic and leadership roles, Sneha enjoys quality time with her dog, exploring new restaurants, and seeking out fun, new activities with friends.

Juliana is a junior majoring in Marketing with a minor in Psychology. She currently serves as the Social Coordinator for the Professional Leadership Program and works as a Social Media Marketing Assistant for Travelers Cantina, a family-owned restaurant. Long-term, she aspires to become a Brand Manager and ultimately launch her own company. PLP has played a significant role in her professional development, equipping her with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in the business world. Through her involvement, Juliana hopes to help other students grow and access the same opportunities that shaped her journey. Outside of UNT, she likes to stay active, surround herself with friends and family, and enjoys being outdoors.

Ryan Phonhnaboth is a Senior majoring in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, graduating Fall 2026. Through PLP, he has had the great opportunity to meet and foster many meaningful friendships and connections. He is eager to be part of the recruitment process and fulfill his passion for recruiting likeminded individuals that are geared towards professional growth and seeking to develop new connections. Outside of his involvement at UNT, Ryan enjoys sports and spending time with family and friends.

Juan Medina is a Senior in the BS/MS Accounting program. Juan plans that after graduation to work in corporate accounting. He is also a part of the Emerald Eagles Scholars Program. Juan has been a part of PLP and will now enter his second semester acting as the active Recruitment Director. Throughout his time in the program, Juan has strengthened his leadership abilities, expanded his professional presence, and embraced the importance of building meaningful relationships. In his spare time, Juan enjoys solving Sudoku, playing video games, and building figures.

A driven Senior Finance Student with a keen interest in capital markets, financial services, and consulting. I am passionate about applying rigorous analysis to complex financial challenges and am committed to continuous personal and professional development.

I firmly believe that "there is no greater joy than to be a sponge and continuously learn from everyone and everything around me."

Looking ahead, I intend to pursue a Master of Finance next year to expand my professional network, deepen my quantitative and analytical skills, and embrace new academic and career experiences.

Beyond my studies, I maintain a balanced lifestyle by enjoying weightlifting, reading, and cherishing time spent with friends and family.