Meet the MSA Team
Dr. Danielle Martin, Director
Dr. Danielle Martin self identifies as a transparent motivator, passionate connector, encourager with accountability, driven activist, embracer of self-love and reflection, and passionate educator with experience in both public K-12 and higher education settings. She is a native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and the loving mother of identical twin young ladies, Arin and Ashlee.
Dr. Martin’s purpose is to teach, guide, love on, inspire, celebrate and positively impact and advocate for others, especially youth and women. During her 23-year career in education, she has spent time pouring into young learners as a first-grade teacher and working with the GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) Program in the Harrisburg School District. Through this program, she found a new love in providing Career/Collegiate Awareness to middle and high school students.
Dr. Martin contributes her time, treasures and talents in the role of Academic Success Coordinator and Associate Adjunct professor at Temple University Harrisburg and main campuses. She contributes her leadership and scholarship to academic scheduling, hiring of faculty, and designing summer and youth programming. She also is responsible for the newest partnership and dual enrollment program between Temple University College of Education and Human Development and the Harrisburg City School District. This partnership is designed to provide teacher preparation and pathway for students who would like to or are interested in becoming schoolteachers. She is also a facilitator and one of the TOP Program Managers for the Harrisburg campus’ TOP Program (Teen Outreach Program) which provides social and emotional learning to middle school and high school at-risk youth. Prior to coming to Temple University, Dr. Martin served as an Admissions Counselor and Dual Enrollment Coordinator for Harrisburg Area Community College. Dr. Martin also serves on a statewide level as the President of the Pennsylvania Black Conference on Higher Education. This organization was founded by K.Leroy Irvis and has been in existence for 50+ years. The goal of the organization is to ensure that the educational needs of minority students in higher education institutions across the state of Pennsylvania are addressed.
Dr. Martin is also a proud member of the Divine Nine as a member Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter where she currently serves as the Second Vice President and is the chair for Program Planning & Development. She has also previously served as a past president of the National Panhellenic Council of Greater Harrisburg.
Dr. Martin’s formal education includes: a Doctoral Degree (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership from Temple University; Master’s Degree in Education from Cabrini University; a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Millersville University.
To keep her life force thriving she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, and seeing her daughters evolve into young ladies. She finds joy in reading, traveling, and savoring amazing “foodie” finds. She is very active in her church, The Chapel, and serves as the lead volunteer for The Next Steps ministry which leads new members through new membership classes and baptism.
Dr. Martin is very passionate about education, youth and serving others. One of her life’s mantras is: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Arnold Taylor, Jr. , Temporary Associate Director
Arnold Taylor Jr. has served as youth development leader with more than 14 years of experience empowering students through mentorship, programming, and community engagement. He currently serves as the Temporary Associate Director of Multicultural Student Affairs at Shippensburg University, where he focuses on creating inclusive environments, strengthening student belonging, and developing initiatives that support academic, social, and cultural success.
Before joining Shippensburg University, Arnold spent over a decade with the Boys & Girls Club of Harrisburg and Philadelphia, serving in multiple leadership roles centered on programming, athletics, and mentoring. His work has impacted thousands of young people through innovative programs, character development, and strategic community partnerships.
Arnold is known for his ability to build strong relationships, lead with empathy, and design experiences that help students transition, thrive, and envision their future pathways. He is also passionate about collaboration, working closely with campus partners to drive multicultural awareness and expand support networks for underrepresented students.
A proud advocate for personal growth and education, Arnold remains committed to uplifting communities, creating opportunities, and ensuring every student feels seen, supported, and empowered.
Cindy K. Dixon, Secretary
I love working in the MSA! It is all about family and I feel privileged to be a part of such a special place. To be in a position to make a difference in the lives of students is an honor. Working in the MSA inspires me to continue to achieve my own personal goals.
The students are encouraged to reach for the stars and not to limit themselves in any way, shape or form; they are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and to build bridges with people of all origins. I believe that the MSA is truly a "Home Away From Home" for students but it is also a place wear leaders are made and dreams are achieved!