Milena Seyed is a long-time faculty member working at College of the Sequoias since 2008 as an information competency librarian and an instructor of literacy. Seyed holds a bachelor’s degree in Romanian Language and Literature from the University of Belgrade in Serbia, as well as a master’s degree in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. Seyed takes on a heft of responsibility at COS, describing that “[m]y goal is to make students feel welcomed, valued, represented, and supported in the library. They need to feel that they belong in higher education and will be successful.”

Now in her 17th academic year at COS, Seyed serves the student body in a myriad of ways. She teaches College Research Strategies (LIBR 101) and Research Skills for Lifelong Learning (LIBR 50). In addition to many library instruction sessions for many other English and Art courses. Seyed also serves at the “Ask a Librarian Desk”, answering research questions for students, either in person or remotely. Other duties for Seyed include individual research consultations, being librarian liaison for several other departments, working on COS Library collection management, and serving on a few COS governing bodies.

This year, Seyed serves on the Academic Senate and Institutional Planning and Effectiveness Committee (IPEC). She also co-chairs one of the task-forces for the newest COS’ Strategic Plan. With a profound love for learning, Seyed makes an effort to also attend various webinars, workshops, and conferences related to academic librarianship and teaching in community colleges.

While the amount of work Seyed takes on may seem staggering, she states, “I love meeting COS students and witnessing their educational journey. It is inspiring to see them discovering what they are interested in, getting passionate about learning, overcoming obstacles, and gaining both confidence and confidence.” Whether by taking one of her courses or asking for help in the library, students can find an array of help when working alongside Milena Seyed!