Q: Can you describe the work you do at the University of Chicago?

I currently serve as Associate Dean of Students in the College and Director of the College Academic and Student Services Office, a new office established under the oversight of the Dean of Students in the College in the summer of 2024. My work primarily consists of overseeing the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of the office, which includes a variety of projects: publication of the College Catalog, evaluation of test and transfer credit, quarterly graduation clearance, the College Core Tutor Program, and student enrollment processes, to name a few.

Q: What led you to your current role?

I am a systems thinker, somewhat like a mechanic, who enjoys breaking down a complicated problem by discerning how a variety of individual components interact with each other to produce a certain outcome. Our work is quite detail oriented and time-sensitive, with outcomes that directly impact students, faculty, and staff each day. Whether it be a small change to the way a policy is written or the overhaul of a complex process, I like collaborating on how we can proactively shape a path for the optimal end result.

Q: How long have you been in your role and how has your role changed since you started?

I have been in this role for about a year and a half. Because our office is still in its infancy, our scope of responsibilities continues to change and new ideas are being brought forward every day! My role has been evolving as those ideas develop, but I try to keep an open mind to the opportunities and prioritize what has the most meaningful impact on the College community.

Q: What motivates you to invest so much care into your work in the College Academic and Student Services Office?

Many years ago now, I was a first-generation college student navigating higher education with very little prior knowledge, social capital, or fiscal resources. I remember what it was like to be a high achieving student who just wanted to focus on learning everything I could and securing a better future. Today, I try to problem solve for sustainable, user-friendly solutions that minimize road bumps in the student experience, so students can focus on being students.

Q: What is a memorable experience you’ve had during your time at the University?

Last year, I brought my daughter to hear Ruby Bridges speak at Rockefeller Chapel for the 35th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Celebration. Every day there are amazing opportunities taking place around campus and I try to take advantage when I can. It was exciting to bring someone she has read and learned about to life!

Editor’s note: find upcoming events happening around campus on the Inside UChicago events page.

Q: You’ve had a great impact on the University. How has the University of Chicago impacted you?

That is very kind, and I would say I’m only building on the impact of other colleagues, past and present. I think it has been enriching just to be a part of such a vibrant living and learning community where intellectual inquiry and discovery is a common passion. If I ever leave Hyde Park, this is what I would miss most.

Q: Beyond your role at the University, how else do you like to spend your time?

I am a rather active and outdoorsy type, so I enjoy running, hiking, and yoga. Curling up under a blanket with a coffee nearby (Colectivo please, I’m from Milwaukee) and a good book (have you read Educated?) is also a good way to enjoy a quiet morning. Most of the time though, I’m chasing after two little kids (ages 3 and 7)!

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our UChicago community, such as a fun fact about yourself or a personal project?

I suppose a fun fact is that I’ve done some unusual things: climbed a volcano and roasted marshmallows over hot lava, taken a train from one coast to the other, stood in a pitch dark cave and felt the wind from bats in flight on my face. I like a good adventure when I can squeeze one in!