Meet the Team

Why I chose a career in student affairs

As a college student, I relied heavily on the guidance I received from advisers and other personnel around campus. I noticed how much my experience in school was enhanced from the outstanding support I received. I chose a career in Student Affairs because I wanted to be a part of a highly collaborative setting to assist online students improve their connectedness to their campus and its resources. As an active listener and proactive coach, I hope to make an impact on students’ well-being and ability to succeed.

Best part of being a Student Success Coach

There’s nothing more satisfying than helping a student make connections and succeed. I really enjoy getting to know students on an individual basis and empowering them to seek out the resources they need for a positive educational journey. There’s always bound to be bumps in the road, but it’s extremely gratifying to help someone smooth them out and learn from the experience.

Experience, Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, minor in English – Technical Communication
• Over ten years of higher education experience
• Been a part of the Student Affairs staff at UW-Extension since 2013

Fun Stuff

I worked as a projectionist while in college and briefly considered a career in film/cinema. I loved working with film on a daily basis, but decided that my appreciation for the field was enough for me and moved on. As genuine filmstrip is replaced by digital platforms, perhaps I can get involved with it again in a “vintage” capacity some day!

Why I chose a career in student affairs:

I discovered the field of student affairs as a student leader working with amazing mentors during my undergraduate degree. Witnessing the development and growth that happens during the university experience is exciting and rewarding. I enjoy working in partnership with students to ease anxieties that comes along with learning and helping them to overcome barriers to success. Seeing students have “Aha” moments and watching them thrive in their academic programs is a true joy!

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach:

I’m excited to get to know our students and to help them figure out how to reach their academic and career goals within their unique life situations. I’m looking forward to working as a problem solver and to help students navigate the complex landscape of higher education so that they can get the most out of their learning experience.

Experience and Education:

I have a Bachelor of Science in General Biology from University of California at San Diego, and a Masters of Education in College Student Services and Administration from Oregon State University. I worked for thirteen years at Oregon State in a variety of student services roles, primarily focused on academic advising and managing student success programs for science students. I’m an alumnus of Americorps, National Civilian Community Core, and also have worked internationally in a New Zealand winery. I’m also in the process of earning a professional coaching certification through the International Coaching Federation.

Fun Stuff:

I’m from California & lived in Oregon for 16 year before coming to Madison in 2019. I love outdoor adventures and have really been enjoying exploring the trails and waterways of Wisconsin with my husband and two golden retrievers. I enjoy traveling to new places and experiencing different cultures.  I’ve been to several countries and have spent quite a bit of time in Alaska. Along with adventures, my other love is music! I am a member of the Madison flute club and can be found playing flute with various flute groups in the local community.

Why I chose a career in student affairs

While in my undergraduate and graduate program, I had excellent advisors, peers, and coaches who helped guide me in my education. I believe that these people who helped shape my education journey sparked an interest in working with students directly as a career and passion.  Having the opportunity to help advocate and make a difference in a students journey towards graduation has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in my career.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach

What I am most looking forward to is helping students process through questions, difficulties, and building an authentic relationship to help achieve their individual goals.  I take a person-centered approach while working with students, and I look forward to listening and reflecting through questions and situations.

Experience and Education

I graduated with my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Winona State University (WSU).  While working towards my master’s degree, I obtained a graduate assistant position for WSU’s Career Services office, working as a career counselor.  I also earned my undergraduate degree from Winona State University with my Bachelor of Arts, majoring in International Studies and a minor focus in Gender Studies and Child Advocacy Studies.  As an undergraduate student I held a position as a work study student worker in the Teaching, Learning, & Technology office.

Prior to accepting the position at UW Extended Campus, I worked as a therapist for a small private practice in the greater Milwaukee area.  Before I worked as a therapist I worked for Columbia College of Nursing as an Academic Advisor for Nursing students both in undergraduate and graduate education.  I also worked in the Graduate school at Marquette University as a program coordinator.

Fun Stuff

I enjoy spending time with my soon to be husband, our dog, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.  While in my undergraduate program I studied abroad in Germany for a year which sparked a love for traveling.  I often spend my free time planning my next trip!  I also enjoy running, cycling, yoga, camping, rock climbing, hiking, and relaxing at home.

Success Coaching Team Lead

Why I chose a career in student affairs:

The power of education is immeasurable. I love learning and I love assisting other people learn. That combination lead me to my career in student affairs. Adult learners typically have a vastly different experience than their “straight-out-of-high-school” peers. It gives me pleasure assisting learners of any age on their educational journey. As with any journey, the goal of a degree rarely is straightforward or easy. I enjoy guiding students during their tumultuous times, and celebrating with them when they’ve overcome their obstacles.

What I love about being a Success Coach:

I consider myself a very gregarious person. Learning about how students got to this point in their educational journey, where they’re going, and how I can assist them are a few points of why I love my job.

Experience & education:

After earning my Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications from Bemidji State University in northern Minnesota, I Moved to Seattle, WA. That’s where I got my start in student affairs, serving as an admissions advisor for two years. I loved it so much that I knew I wanted to make a career of it. Thus, I moved back to my home state of Wisconsin to earn a Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from UW Madison. After serving as an advisor at UW Madison’s Law School for a couple years, I accepted a position as an Academic Success Coach with the UW Flexible Option. I’ve been with Flex for over 4 years now. It’s awesome being able to be both an Academic Success Coach with UW Flexible Option and a Student Success Coach with the Student Services team.

Fun stuff:

My wife and I have two young sons who have tons of energy. We love spending time at our family cabin in northern Wisconsin, taking road trips, and spending as much time as possible outside. I’m an Eagle Scout. I enjoy watching the Packers, embarrassing myself on the golf course, reading, and being active with my church community.

Why I chose a career in student affairs?

I absolutely loved my time in higher education and I want to create the same wonderful experience I had for other students. Two of my biggest passions in life are learning and helping others, so a career in student affairs was a natural fit. I find it extremely rewarding to truly make a difference in someone’s life.

Experience, Education:

Bachelors of Arts in Psychology with a Dance minor and Human Services emphasis

Attended graduate school for School Counseling

Over four years of experience in Student Services

Certified Personal Trainer and Health/Wellness Coach

Fun Stuff:

I love spending time with my family, friends, and my African Grey parrot named Sam. In my free time, you can find me taking a Pilates class, reading a book, or listening to a true crime podcast. I also love Harry Potter and own three wands!

Why I chose a career in student affairs:

During my undergraduate and graduate school journey, I was guided by mentors and peers, which ignited a desire to follow in their footsteps and pursue a career in Student Affairs. Assisting students in actualizing their potential and steering them through the ever-changing world of Higher Education is extremely rewarding.  Finding opportunities to advocate on behalf of students has been the most gratifying part of my career thus far.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach:

Building relationships with students and learning their stories in order to support them in achieving their unique goals and aspirations. Having the opportunity to engage with and learn from new and returning learners was a primary reason I wanted to become a Success Coach. I am eager to walk alongside these students to help make connections, remove barriers, provide resources, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Experience and Education:

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western New England University. While in college, I discovered the field of Student Affairs which led me to pursue a Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Colorado State University. I began my Student Affairs career at University of Wisconsin-Madison where I served as a Residence Life Coordinator for five years. Most recently, I served as an Assistant Director of Residence Life at University of Wisconsin-Parkside.

Fun Stuff:

I enjoy spending time with my partner and dog, family in Wisconsin and Massachusetts, and friends. I can often be found on the softball diamond or playing a round of golf during the summer months, watching a Packers Game or rooting for my home team, the Boston Red Sox, travelling, or exploring our beautiful state of Wisconsin.

Why I chose a career in student affairs

Student Affairs found me when I was working towards other plans. When I look back on the things I really enjoyed during my undergraduate and graduate experiences, it was the on-campus student leadership and employment that stood out. It’s funny how sometimes your extra curriculars can turn into a rewarding career, and I credit my mentors for encouraging me to pursue this path. I appreciate those who saw the transferable skills I brought to the table and took a chance on me.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach

I’m looking forward to getting to know, listening to, collaborating with, celebrating, helping remove roadblocks, advocating for, and walking alongside others as they pursue their goals.

Experience and Education

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design & Art History from Oregon State University. After taking some time off, I returned to school to earn a Master of Science in Management Communication from the University of Portland. I was drawn to Wisconsin after completing my graduate degree to serve as a Complex Director in University Housing at UW-Whitewater. Most recently I’m coming from UW-Whitewater’s First Year Experience Office, previously serving as the Manager of Mentor Programs.

Fun Stuff

I enjoy spending time with my partner, daughter, & dog hiking, meeting friends on the Memorial Union Terrace, trying out a new restaurant, or exploring the local botanical gardens.

Why I chose a career in student affairs

As an immigrant and first-generation student, navigating the educational system has always been a struggle. Throughout my educational career, my family was my greatest supporters, and I was very fortunate to have been linked up with great advisors and mentors. Because of this, I believe that a great support system is fundamental to the student’s success. Working in Student Affairs is my way to give back to students just as those who have guided me along the way.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach:

My experience has provided me with a wide array of skills sets that I can bring to this role. I look forward to leaning on my experiences to be that point of contact to students and help them navigate their way while at UW-Extended Campus.

 Experience and Education

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Communications from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. My professional experience includes the fields of W2 case management, human resources and higher education. I realized that my strength lies in working with students to help them reach their educational goals and began my studies in the Master of Science in Student Personnel Administration at Concordia University – Wisconsin. I served as Registrar at Columbia College of Nursing for six years and most recently, I as Degree Auditor at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire for two years

Fun Stuff

In 2021, I started a little garden and filled it with various vegetables and flowers. My family would spend most of our summer evenings in the garden and found so much joy reaping what we sowed, literally. This year, I plan to expand my garden and add new varieties to my selection. This city girl has turned into a country girl!

Why did I choose a career in Student Affairs?

During my undergraduate studies I knew I always wanted to be in higher education but I was not sure what direction I wanted to go in. The opportunity to work in student affairs came up and I have been working with students ever since.

Experience, education:

Ten years experience in Student Services

Bachelors of Science in English and Minor in Women’s Studies

Masters of Arts in Education Curriculum and Instruction

What do I do in my free time?

I spend a lot of time with my family. I love animals. I have a Chihuahua (Oompa) and two cats (Mittens & Honey). My favorite music is Reggaeton and I love to go dancing.

Why I chose a career in student affairs?

I find great joy and challenge in helping people actualize their potential through higher education, while navigating a dynamic environment. Higher education is ever-changing and no day is the same. I love working directly with students to support them in their journey and I enjoy being involved in projects/initiatives that improve programs and the overall student experience. I find myself forever inspired by the student affairs professionals I worked with while I pursuing my undergraduate and graduate degrees, having realized important aspects of myself that make me who I am today. One of my mentors used to say that the key to finding your career path is figuring out the kinds of problems you want to solve (as no matter what career you go into, you are paid to solve problems for someone else). Whether it be a helping a student work through a complicated situation, getting into a complex project, launching a new program/initiative, coaching a student through a challenging time, or figuring out a nuanced academic plan…student affairs is exactly where I was meant to be!

What I love about being a Success Coach:

Every student is unique; each student I work with comes from a different background with different skills, different goals, different concerns, different motivations, etc. It’s exciting to help students navigate their experience especially as that path looks different for each student I work with. No day is the same, no conversation is the same, and the students I work with teach me things every day. When a day feels longer than the others, it’s my students who energize me. I love helping students develop a plan to accomplish their goals as well as celebrating all achievements along the way – progress is progress and every achievement is worth celebrating.

Experience & education:

I completed my Bachelor of Science degree in Communication at the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point (UWSP) in 2006 and tried out career paths in retail as well as healthcare recruitment and staffing. While I learned a lot on both paths, it took losing my job during the economic downturn of 2008 to reassess my career goals and what I truly wanted to do. I was fortunate to break into student affairs in late 2008 and started working at UWSP. I worked as an academic department associate, supporting students, faculty, and staff in an engineering program; as an admissions counselor, supporting prospective students and families; and as coordinator of new student orientation, helping/preparing new students and families for their first semester at UWSP. During this time, I also completed my Master of Education in Student Affairs Administration degree online through the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse in 2012. Working full-time while going to school full-time was a challenge to say the least and a challenge I will never regret (though I’ll take back the sleep I lost any day!) My husband and I moved to Madison in the fall of 2013 when I started with the UW-Flexible Option in Admissions. I became an Academic Success Coach in 2014. Six years (and counting) has flown by!

Fun stuff:

My husband and I have two beautiful daughters who are full of spunk, sass, and strong will. They keep us on our toes and they keep us smiling and laughing every day. We enjoy spending time with our family and friends, spending our Saturday mornings at the Dane County Farmer’s Market on the capitol square, having dance parties whenever possible, and enjoying the local fare (and Madison has a lot for us to discover and enjoy). We also just moved into what I would call our “near forever” home and we enjoy being in our new space while envisioning how to make it our own, while testing our craftsmanship with some DIY projects.

Why I chose a career in student affairs

I chose a career in Student Affairs because student success matters, and it gives me the opportunity to contribute to positive change and growth every day.

Experience, Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Working Life Science, from Karlstad University.

Master’s degree in Business Administration and Management, from North Park University.

Master’s certificate in Human Resources Management, from North Park University.

Five years of experience in Student Services.

Fun Stuff:

I love spending time with my family, friends, and my little chihuahua Knox whenever I can. In my free time I enjoy traveling, taking yoga and dance classes, watching soccer, and exploring Madison.

Success Coach Generalist

Why I chose a career in student affairs?

I chose a career in student affairs because I truly believe in the power of education, and I love working with students! Every student has a unique story, energy and set of characteristics that I find powerful and inspiring. Helping a student discover their passion(s) and pursue their dreams is both exciting and rewarding. I was blessed with incredible advisors and mentors during my college experience that helped me find and develop my inner strength and passions.  I want to pay that service forward by supporting and empowering every student I can.

What I love about success coaching:

Helping students overcome challenges and meet their goals by removing barriers and providing holistic support.  It’s truly amazing to witness the resilience, growth and successes of our students.

Experience & education:

I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Interpersonal Communication from UW-La Crosse, and a Master of Science in Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education from Concordia University of Wisconsin. When I was at UW-La Crosse I was involved in the Admissions Office, Residence Life, and Student Activities. One day my Advisor asked if I ever considered a career in Student Affairs.  I didn’t know that was a career path or option! I was overjoyed by the opportunity and declared it as my future career. During Graduate school I participated in Internships in Academic Advising, Orientation and Student Activities. All of these experiences led me to Madison, WI and my current role at UW- Extended Campus. I was hired as the UW Flexible Option Student Resource Specialist in Fall of 2018 and am loving every moment of serving adult learners in their pursuit of a University of Wisconsin education.

Fun stuff:

My husband and I live in Madison with our 2 year old Gordon Setter pup, Rory. We love traveling both near and far, trying new restaurants and breweries, staying active on the bike path or at a local park, gathering with friends for a sports game or game night, and we love volunteering with our local church community. We’re both from Wisconsin and enjoy seeing our families often too!

Why did I choose a career in Student Affairs?

As a first generation college student, education has always been important to me. I have always wanted to be in a career where I was able to make a difference and I believe working in Student Affairs has allowed me to help students make a difference in their lives.

Experience, education:

Bachelors of Arts in Social Work and a Minor in Human Services

Masters of Science in Education; emphasis on Higher Education

Five years of experience in Student Services

What do I do in my free time?

I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my two dogs (Maya & Hazel). I spend a lot of my free time crafting and working on DIY projects.

Why I chose a career in student affairs

My college years were some of the best years of my life, but it did come with many different challenges. From balancing school and work (juggling 4 different jobs at one time) to getting through some pretty tough courses, with a little trial and error, I was able to find strategies to move forward and reach my goals successfully. I enjoy working with students to help them find solutions that work for their unique situations and learning styles.

Experience, Education

• Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from UW La Crosse
• Master of Science in School Counseling from UW Whitewater

I have worked in the Student Services field since 2007.

My favorite way to spend a Saturday:

In the summer, my husband and I go to our camper in Rio, Wisconsin almost every weekend. So my favorite Saturdays are spent at the camper, waking up and sitting out on the deck with a caffeinated beverage and enjoying the sights and sounds of the outdoors. In the afternoon, spending time with family and friends hanging out by the pool, or at the beach, or playing yard games at our site. Then to top it all off, sitting around a campfire at night with our friends and fellow campers, telling ridiculous stories and laughing until our stomachs hurt.

Director of Student Success

What do you hope never changes?

Human kindness.

How do you relax after a hard day of work?

Though it is not always easy, I believe it is very important to separate work from home life and find it helpful to stick to a consistent schedule for when one facet ends and another begins. I find joy and rejuvenation when I can be present with family, friends and nature.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Hands down – my three children. I have always dreamed of the day I would become a mother and feel truly honored to serve in such an important role.

I chose to work in student affairs because….

I believe that access to support resources is just as important outside of the classroom as it is inside to maximize student success.

What’s your favorite quote?

“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” – John C. Maxwell

Success Coaching Team Lead

Why I chose a career in student affairs?

As a college student, I was helped greatly by my mentors and advisers. I didn’t realize how many people on campus were there specifically to help me as a student! I want to pass that on by supporting and encouraging every student I can.

What I love about being a success coach:

I love helping students find what success means to them, from getting through that first assessment, to graduation, and everything in between. UW Flexible Option students come from many different educational and experiential backgrounds, and I enjoy helping students find their unique path.

Experience & education:

I earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with a minor in Gender Studies from Northern Michigan University, and a Master’s of Science in Education – Professional Development from University of Wisconsin Whitewater. Through graduate school and for a few years after, I worked in university housing. I have been an Academic Success Coach with UW Flexible Option since 2016.

Fun stuff:

I enjoy spending time with family and enjoying the Wisconsin outdoors with my energetic dog. I can often be found reading, watching movies, or trying my hand at a new dessert recipe.

Why I chose a career in student affairs:

During my undergraduate program, I realized that the positions that I enjoyed working were around helping students feel comfortable and confident during their transition into college. Navigating higher education can be both daunting and draining. I appreciated the opportunity to help alleviate this stress and found my groove in learning more in graduate school about how I can continue to be my best self for all students. I’m thrilled to use what I have been talking about and learning to make a difference to those I serve.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach:

I love to learn about students’ individual paths and what brought them to where they are now. I will do my best to provide thoughtful resources and referrals, a listening ear, and a helping spirit to motivate students to feel confident with the choices they make. I’ve had amazing role models during my academic journey, and I am excited for the opportunity to pay it forward with the students I will be working with.

Experience and Education

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a Bachelor of Science in Communication and a minor in Religious Studies. Upon this, I discovered that my passion was in Student Affairs and Higher Education and earned my Master of Science in Counseling and Student Personnel: College Student Affairs at Minnesota State University, Mankato. During this program, I served in Residential Life as a Student Services Coordinator and Career Advisor through the Career Development Center there.

Fun Stuff:

Outside of the Success Coach position, I love spending my weekends with my family, friends, and partner. Whether this is through exploring cities, camping and guitar playing, or bowling in a league, I always try to keep myself busy!