Tell us a little about your background. How did you end up at UNI?
I am currently the Dean of Outreach and Information Technology at a Western Iowa Tech Community College and work very closely with our Regent's transfer advisor on campus. I started to explore programs with the advisor. 

Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI?
I wanted to focus specifically on students and higher education. The UNI program offered me a chance to do that with the student affairs program. Plus, I was looking for a program that was not fully online, but offered a hybrid component with Zoom classes. 

How did you choose your area of focus for your thesis or dissertation, if you did one? Why was this important to you?
I have always been student focused and want every single student to find their passion in education. 

What three adjectives describe yourself? 
Dedicated, Honest, Visionary

What does completing your degree mean to you?
This degree has given me the confidence to continue working in higher education and push myself to achieve more for students. 

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?
I was working full-time in a new position, raising a young family and trying to be the support system for my family and friends. 

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
I was able to balance my life and learn valuable information to help me excel at my career. 

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
The Gold Cohort! We had an amazing group of people to support us in every way. The people I met will be lifelong friends and have truly impacted me as a person. 

We often say UNI is student focused; a place where professors care--and teach; a place where learning happens in and out of the classroom;  and perfectly sized. Do any of these statements ring true for you?
The professors are simply amazing! They are kind, caring, intelligent, and advocates for all students.

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
DO IT NOW! Do not wait! You can do this!

What's next? 
I am excited to use my degree to be part of the President's Executive Leadership and to continue to advocate for all students.