What I do: 

In my position within Student Assistance, I have the privilege of not only assisting the rest of the Student Assistance team in their efforts to support students, but also engaging directly with students to provide them the necessary support in navigating various challenges affecting their experience. I place great importance on establishing connections with individuals, seeking to understand their unique circumstances, and identifying the most effective means of assisting them. Through active questioning and exploring avenues to connect them with appropriate support and resources, I strive to provide the best possible assistance. Ultimately, I recognize that sometimes people simply require a compassionate listener and an encouraging presence as they navigate both simple and highly complex situations. It is my privilege to be entrusted with such opportunities.

Furthermore, in my capacity as the Associate Dean of Students, I provide support to the Directors of the Academic Success Center and Student Accessibility Services, facilitating their efforts in ensuring our students receive the necessary support they require.

About me: 

I joined Iowa State University in November of 2009 as the Assistant Director of Student Assistance within the Dean of Students Office to provide coordinated care and support to students with a case management lens. In 2015, I became the Assistant Dean/Director of the Office. In 2020, my role was expanded and I now serve as the Associate Dean of Students for Student Assistance and Academic success, overseeing Student Assistance, Student Accessibility Services, and the Academic Success Center. Prior to Iowa State, I was an Area Coordinator and Residence Life Coordinator at Kansas State University for five years. I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Iowa State University in Family Services. I enjoy the opportunity to help students and supporting others doing the work supporting students. I manage my own self-care by being with family, friends, and Iowa State Cyclone sports. I love using my hobbies as a way of connecting with others, whether it be using amateur magician skills in a training or helping others find good deals at garage sales, I am always up to connect in some way.

Passionate about: 

I really enjoy connecting with people both professionally and personally.  Everyone has such fun and unique experiences and finding ways to connect with people is one of my passions.  I have several hobbies that occupy my time, I enjoy Cyclone sports, and appreciate learning random bits of information about anything. 

What I do:

In my role in Student Assistance, I connect with students, families, faculty, staff, and friends that may be concerned or worried about a student. My position allows me the opportunity to see first-hand the amount of caring people in the ISU community. Whenever I interact with those that are concerned, I want them to be assured that I will provide the best possible care to their student, providing them some peace of mind. When I meet with students that are experiencing struggles or challenges, my goal is for them to know that their experience matters to me, and I will do whatever I can to help them. I want students to feel comfortable and at ease talking with me so that I can help them to identify some next steps. Sometimes, you just need someone to talk to and listen; I hope that students feel that I can be that person for them.

About me:

Something that is important for students to know about me is that I am very obsessed with dogs (and animals of all kinds) and I will try to find a way to work animals into every conversation we have. Just kidding...kind of. 

I believe that my purpose in life is to create meaningful connections with those I come into contact with. This could be a brief interaction or a life-long relationship, but I find great joy in connecting with others. I use humor as a way to build connection and empathy as a way to develop trust. 

Other things in life that bring me great joy is the connection and love of my husband, my squishy bulldog, Benny, live music, the outdoors, the warmth from the sunshine, and the friends and family that love me fiercely. 

Passionate about: 

I am passionate about taking care of what is around me; people, plants, animals, the environment, my community, and myself. 

What I do:

Through conversation with students, I learn about the challenges or struggles they may be experiencing throughout their time here at Iowa State. I ask students what may be most helpful for our time together, how can I best support them, and offer to assist however I can. Typically, this includes highlighting resources for expanding a student’s support network, outlining academic options available and sharing potential next steps a student may want to consider given their specific situation. My goal at the conclusion of each meeting is for students to have all the information they need to make the best decisions for themselves moving forward.

About me:

I am originally from Wisconsin and love everything the dairy state has to offer! My favorite place to visit in Wisconsin is Door County (the peninsula of the state), and I spend a week there each summer with my family.

In addition to my obsession with Wisconsin, I enjoy going on runs/walks, biking, fishing, and camping. Most of all, my favorite is spending time with my husband and our two Boston Terriers pups, Blu and Raya.

I attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point for my undergrad degree in Sociology and attended Southern Illinois University-Carbondale for my Master’s degree in College Student Personnel. I’ve been working professionally at Iowa State University since 2014. I’ve held roles within the Department of Residence and the Office of Admissions prior to my current position within the Office of Student Assistance.

Passionate about: 

I am passionate about adventure! I am always looking forward to the next trip, activity, concert, vacation, event, etc., and strive for maximum fun with my family and friends!

What I do:

In my role, I have the opportunity to support students as they navigate various challenges that come up during their time at Iowa State. When working with students, my goal is to listen with empathy and help connect them with resources and support systems on campus that can assist them with their particular needs. My goal is for students to leave each meeting feeling more empowered and like they have the necessary tools to build a quality educational experience.

About me:

I first enrolled in Iowa State as a journalism major with the big dream of one day working as a National Geographic photographer. However, after becoming more involved on campus in various opportunities, I realized just how special the college experience was and that my true passion was working with other students. With that, and with the guidance of so many wonderful people, I found my way into Student Affairs and have loved every minute of it. Prior to working in Student Assistance, I worked with the Memorial Union Student Engagement team as the Service Learning and Student Organizations Coordinator. Before that, I also worked as an Activities Coordinator at the University of Houston where I advised the Student Programming Board and Homecoming. I consider it such a privilege to be able to help guide students and watch them grow as people, as students, and as leaders.

Outside of work, I love traveling with my wife and checking out as many National Parks and National Historic Landmarks as we can. We love camping, biking, hiking, kayaking, or any other outdoor adventure. I’m also a major podcast geek and am always looking for new recommendations.

Passionate about:

I am a naturally curious person and I truly love learning new things. From listening to podcasts on the history of the Supreme Court to watching documentaries about space and artificial intelligence, I really like to engage my inner nerd. The world we live in is such a fascinating place and l love exploring new concepts or ideas and learning how they connect with, and even impact, everyday life.

What I do:

In my role, I support students as their first point of contact at the Office of Student Assistance. Since each student’s needs are unique, I intentionally talk through with them possible options that best suit their needs.  At each meeting, I use strength-based approach where I ensure students build from their strengths. My goal for each student is for them to see what else is going on well despite their current concerns. While meeting with students who are returning to campus under the medical withdrawal process, my focus is to help them transition back smoothly by sharing helpful resources that might be beneficial upon their return. Working with students navigating various challenges and collaborating with campus partners in ensuring our students get the best possible support and care is something that fills my heart with great joy.

About me:

If I am not meeting with a student or checking in with a colleague, I am either doing a craft or have a “Milly walk/stroll” around campus while listening to an audio book or a podcast. I cherish every moment that I spend with my family and friends.

Passionate about:

I am passionate about people’s overall wellbeing, especially students as they are a precious gift to me. I try to make every encounter as fruitful and fulfilling as possible.

What I do:

My role is to assist students within the Ivy, CALS, and LAS colleges in navigating academic and personal challenges. I support them by sharing campus and community resources and helping them consider their potential next steps. Examples of challenges I can assist with include identifying academic supports, finding ways to connect on campus, locating financial and non-urgent mental health resources, and more! My goal is to be a compassionate and safe source of support and connection for students. 

About me:

I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and pets. They are my 'bread and butter' so to speak! I also enjoy cooking, being creative, and connecting with my community through service, classes, and events. 

Passionate about:

I love to learn! Whether by reading, talking with others, listening to podcasts and radio, attending a class, or direct experience, the act of learning makes me feel happy and connected. The only thing better than learning is being able to share and apply my knowledge in support of the people and things I care about. 

What I do:

I work directly with the College of Engineering, Design & Human Sciences Student Services Offices and Academic Advisors to connect with students to provide them with both college and university wide support. My role is to help direct students to what resources they have available to them that will best fit their needs and situations.

About me:

Originally from Texas and an Iowa transplant, I try to take advantage of having seasons and spend as much time as I am able outdoors. I previously held a position in Outdoor Recreation, and so I have now implemented that passion into my personal life.

Passionate about:

Learning about niche and obscure things. I find so many topics fascinating and really enjoy the lore behind things to help better understand how it all fits into the bigger picture.