Student Affairs Leadership Academy Participants

I started at UWM as the Events and Operations Coordinator over three years ago and have since transitioned into leading the Intramural Sports program for what will be my fourth semester. I have undergraduate and graduate degrees in Sport Management from Minnesota State - Mankato where I held a variety of positions within the sport industry. These included an internship within the Athletic Department and a graduate assistantship with Campus Recreation and Intramural Sports. I was also a certified basketball official all throughout college and one of my favorite parts of the job is passing on my knowledge and experience as a mentor to my staff of roughly 30 students. Outside of my full-time position, I teach multiple basketball related courses through the FitWell department on campus. I'm looking forward to developing my leadership skills and continuing to make a lasting impact on UWM students.

My name is Ashley and I currently work at UW Oshkosh as an Operations Coordinator for Student Recreation and Wellness. Before beginning my professional career at Oshkosh, I attended as an undergraduate student and obtained a bachelor's degree in English and a minor in Business Administration. After that I enrolled as a graduate student and obtained my master's degree in Educational Leadership and Policy. I consider myself a lifelong learner and truly enjoy working on a college campus and engaging with students. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my husband, two kids, and Newfoundland dog. My favorite hobbies include reading, drinking coffee, and running.

Nick has served as the Fitness Coordinator for Rec Sports at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse since 2018. In this role, Nick oversees fitness programs, facilities, and initiatives that support the UWL community by inspiring and empowering people of all abilities and interests to embrace wellness through the joy of movement. Nick is dedicated to student development-focused initiatives that also address barriers to participation. At Rec Sports, Nick leads multiple student staff teams and since 2018 has advised a committee aimed at advancing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) through development and delivery of peer-led training sessions for the department. Nick earned his degrees from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (B.S.) and the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa (M.S.). In his free time, Nick enjoys camping, road trips, and hiking with his wife, Jaclyn, and their five children.

Sam Bowen (she/her) is a social worker by training, public health practitioner by trade, and student affairs professional in practice. She serves as the Assistant Director of Violence Prevention at the University of Wisconsin- Madison, where she leads a team of prevention specialists who work to understand and address root causes of campus sexual and relationship violence. Sam is a double Badger and received her Master’s degree in medical social work with concentrations in program evaluation and prevention science from the UW-Madison School of Social Work. Sam loves working in college health, as it is such a pivotal time in students’ lives for developing healthcare literacy and shaping the skills and attitudes needed to build a safer, healthier, and more just world. Her favorite part of working in higher education is engaging with students. Sam has been honored with several campus recognitions for her role advising and mentoring students and regularly serves as a first-year instructor and graduate preceptor in addition her regular duties.

Originally from a small town in Southeast Wisconsin, I chose UW-Whitewater to get my bachelor's degree in International Studies, graduating in 2010. As part of my major, focused in Latin America, I was able to travel to Mexico for a study abroad requirement and Ecuador for work study. I got a lot out of undergrad as a Resident Assistant, a Diversity Advocate and at times overcommitting myself to many student organizations on campus, even helping to start 2 of them that still exist on campus currently. After graduation I got my start in retail management, eventually moving to Minnesota and switching gears back to Residence Life through a housing cooperative at the University of Minnesota. In 2023 my wife and I resolved to move closer to family for the benefit of my 3-year-old son and I found out about an open position in Residence Life at my alma mater, which was an exciting surprise. We bought a house and currently live in Stoughton. I am happy to be back in Wisconsin, close to family and in a fulfilling position at an institution that brought so much value to me all throughout my life.

Pete grew up on, in, and around the water in his hometown of Clearwater, FL. From a young age, Pete connected with being outside, fostering a love for camping, paddling, hiking, biking, and diving. After completing an interdisciplinary studies degree from the University of Central Florida, Pete moved to North Carolina to coach baseball at East Carolina University. It was there that he discovered a passion for mentoring students and helping them to develop leadership & life skills. Pete moved to Madison in the summer of 2019 and has been awestruck by the natural beauty of Wisconsin ever since. Pete comes to Outdoor UW after stops with both REI and UW-Madison Housing. As the advisor for the Hoofer Outing and Hoofer Riding clubs, Pete looks forward to encouraging, enabling, and helping club leaders to grow and provide excellent programming for the UW-Madison campus and community. When not at work, you can catch Pete and his family in their garden or out exploring state parks and waterways across Wisconsin.

Hi! My name is Ciera and I am the Associate Director for the UW-Whitewater Bookstore. My favorite part of my job is engaging with students and creating relationships on campus. I have been in student affairs for almost 10 years including my time as a graduate assistant in graduate school. When I am not at work I am running around with my 1 year old, immersing myself in a romantasy or sports romance novel, or bopping around the city I call home, Milwaukee.

I am the Fitness Programs Manager at Stevens Point. I have been working in Collegiate Fitness and Recreation for two years. In my personal life, I have been active in fitness most of my life in both endurance and strength sports. In this job, I appreciate the opportunity to get to work with young adults to help guide them in their goals whether it is fitness related or academically.

Tamsin is currently in her sixth year as the Creative Services Manager at the Wisconsin Union, UW-Madison. She manages a team consisting of graphic designers, photographers and a multi-media designer. Her passions include student mentorship, mental health advocacy and all things design. Tamsin enjoys running, traveling, watching documentaries and spending time outside. She currently lives in Madison with her husband, Peter, her 8-year-old son, Theo and her pup, Winfrey.

My name is Kyle Foss and I am an Operations Manager for UWSP. I have many years of customer service and operations management experience, and have enjoyed bringing these skills to the UW system. I obtained a BS in Business Administration from UWSP and a MS in Recreation Management from UW-L. I live in Stevens Point WI with my wife, two daughters and our Weimaraner where we enjoy spending time outside as family.

My name is Sarah Harvey and I have been working in higher education for 14 years. I have had the opportunity to experience several different roles within recruitment, admissions, advising and course instruction. Currently, I am the Academic Program Manager for UW-Whitewater at Rock County focusing on the growth of the collaborative bachelor’s degree programs offered on campus. I strive to be an advocate for students by putting access to higher education and achievement of educational goals as a focus in my daily work.

Jason Herman, MS is an Academic Advisor in TRIO Student Support Services-STEM (SSS-STEM) and Co-Lead of the First Scholars program at UW Oshkosh. Jason earned his Master of Science in Educational Leadership from as well as a Bachelor of Science in Education from UW Oshkosh. Jason has 10 years of experience in higher education, which includes time in admissions, orientation, placement testing, and academic advising with specific knowledge in First generation college student and TRIO programing. I believes in College Access for underserved student populations as a way to improve ones self and standing. My unique perspective on the student experience from admissions through graduation gives me a perspective of the student lifecycle that allows me to impact students holistically and help them realize their goals and aspirations at any part of their educational journey.

I have been the Event & Camps Manager for 2 years at UW-Stout. I work in the Student Centers where I schedule events and summer camps. I transitioned into the university setting after 17 years of being the athletic director and pool director of a local school district. Working at UW-Stout has been a nice shift in professions while having the ability to rely on my past experiences to bring a base of understanding to the position.

Cindy Lopez Johnson (she/her/hers) has been at UW-Green Bay as a Multicultural Student Success Manager in the Multicultural Resource Center since August 2020. As a first-generation college graduate, Cindy has had the passion to help students from underserved backgrounds find their version of success in higher education for almost 10 years. Cindy graduated from the UW-Green Bay in 2013 with a double major in Human Development and Spanish. She earned her Master’s of Arts in Higher Education: College Student Affairs from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2015. Cindy has experience working at two-year technical college as well as mid-size public 4-year institutions. In her free time, Cindy enjoys crafting, reading, kayaking, spending time outdoors, and traveling. She currently lives in Appleton with my husband, Jake, their 3-year old daughter, Elena, and 3 furbabies.

Erica Johnson is the Executive Staff Assistant in the Office of Student Affairs at UW-Whitewater. In her more than 11 years of service at UW-Whitewater, Erica’s role has expanded to include support to the Division of Student Affairs related to financials, human resources, annual budget development, the Non-Allocable Segregated Fee process, division-wide events, the Student Affairs Leadership Team, and direct support to the Vice Chancellor and Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs. Two of Erica’s favorite aspects of her work are having the opportunity to work with amazing colleagues and students, and the ability to seek out and learn something new every day.

Andrew Kopitzke Andrew currently serves as an assistant director of admissions at UW Oshkosh. In this role, he focuses on student recruitment, liaises with intercollegiate athletics, and manages Salesforce CRM. He began his professional career in higher education in 2008 as a residence hall director before pivoting to admissions in 2012. Andrew earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from UW Oshkosh and a bachelor’s degree in communication processes from UW-Green Bay. He is currently a member of the Wisconsin Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (WACRAO) and previously served as vendor chair for the organization. Andrew is passionate about networking and supporting students. In his free time, he enjoys traveling (particularly to Thailand) and anything sports related.

My name is Amanda Krueger-Kutcher and I am currently an Access Coordinator in Disability Services at UW-Stout. I have previous experience in K-12 education as both a social studies teacher and as a special education teacher. I attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, earning a B.A. in History Education and Psychology with a minor in French. As a former K-12 teacher, an area of interest for me is connected to supporting students in their first year and beyond as they transition from high school to college. 

Chrissy Lambie, GCDF is a 20+ year veteran of student affairs and Career & Professional Development at UW Oshkosh. She is the assistant director and works with advising students in the healthcare and education industries. She currently serves as the Academic Staff Senate President Elect and has served for the past three years as a senator and representative to UW System. Chrissy enjoys the work she does but also loves the balance of time off spending it often times at her camper in Silver Cliff, WI.

Brad currently works at UW-Madison as the Coordinator of Wisconsin Welcome and works to organize all of the welcome week programming for incoming Badger students. He helps to organize over 500 events including the famous W Project picture in Camp Randall and New Student Convocation. He has been in the role for slightly over two years after coming to UW-Madison from Florida, Virginia, and New Jersey. In his free time, Brad loves to spend time outside kayaking or hiking, being with his rescue dog, planning trips, watching sports, and with his camera in hand.

Lisa Larson serves as a Case Manager in the Dean of Students Office at the University of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS). Lisa brings over 20 years of experience in social services to her role. Her professional journey includes roles as an outreach worker, family advocate, and homeless liaison, where she supported and empowered individuals and families. In her current position at UWS, Lisa works to provide meaningful support to students, helping them navigate their academic and personal challenges and work towards their goal of graduation. Her personal experiences as a parent also deeply inform her approach; her daughter is currently a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF), and her son is pursuing Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) classes at the University of Minnesota-Duluth

River (they/them) currently serves as Assistant Director of DEI Signature Programs. Their main duties are overseeing the Our Wisconsin Program, a required, online inclusion and belonging training for all incoming first-year and transfer students, and facilitating follow-up trainings and workshops for students and staff. This is River's first role in student affairs and in a leadership position. They have been in this role for almost 1.5 years, but still feel very new to the field and are excited to learn more about how they can make working in student affairs a life long career!

Travis (he/they) serves as a Complex Director for University of Wisconsin-Whitewater's University Housing, where he works to build positive relationships and connect students to important resources within the halls and greater campus community. Travis came to Whitewater after spending two years at Lawrence University private school as a Residence Hall Director and received his Master's Degree at Fort Hays State University in the Higher Education Student Affairs (HESA) Program. Travis spent four years at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he received his BA in Communication-Public Relations in 2018. Travis's passion for working with programmatic boards and organizations has led to opportunities advising the campus Alpha Delta Phi Society, a gender inclusive Greek organization, and Housing's Residence Hall Association. Beyond programming, Travis has sought committee work with Whitewater's Chancellor's Committee on LGBTQ+ Inclusive Excellence, and liaison work with the campus's LGBTQ+ student organization IMPACT. 

Allie serves at the Basic Needs Coordinator in the Dean of Students Office at UW- Milwaukee. She has been in this role for 2.5 years and oversees three program areas: The UWM Food Center and Pantry, the Emergency Grants Program, as well as the Loaner Laptop Program. Allie will be completing her master's degree in Community and Organizational Leadership in December 2024. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dog Otis, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Emily Matteson (she/her) has served as the Pre-College Coach and Campus Recruiter at UW-Whitewater at Rock County for the past two years, guiding students through the admissions process, financial aid navigation, academic program exploration, and their transition into college life. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, she is dedicated to enhancing access to higher education for students in the Rock County community and beyond. Outside of her work on campus, Emily is a drummer in a Milwaukee-based band and teaches drum lessons to aspiring musicians, combining her passion for education with her love for music.

I am Zach Moffett (he/him/his) and serve as the Coordinator of Student Conduct in the Student Life Office at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse. I have spent the last two years at UWL as a Resident Director for Drake Hall in the Office of Residence Life, before transitioning over to the Student Life Office in the summer of 2024. I completed my undergraduate degree in Religion at Wabash College and my master’s degree in Higher Education Student Affairs from Western Carolina University. My goal in participating in this program is to develop my knowledge of how I can support students and make the most out of our systems that guide students. I look forward to connecting with others across the system and learning from their various perspectives and experiences.

Hello, my name is Jules Buttles (Narlock after September 28th) (she/her) and I have been a part of Housing and Residence Life in some format since my sophomore year of college. I have continued to grow and learn through the opportunities that I was given and am excited to continue to grow through this opportunity. I graduated with my BFA in Graphic Design from University of Wisconsin Platteville as a first-generation student. I have moved closer to home to continue my journey in higher education to help those who are in their journey of college here at University of Wisconsin Stevens Point.

Aaron is a passionate and driven Student Affairs professional with nearly four years of experience as a Complex Director and in related roles. His journey in higher education began during his graduate studies, where he served as a Graduate Assistant in the Center for Students with Disabilities at Murray State University in 2020. While pursuing a Master of Arts in Postsecondary Education Administration at the same institution, Aaron also worked as a Hall Director at the University of Tennessee at Martin. After his first year there, he transitioned to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he assumed the role of Complex Director. In the same year, he completed his Master’s degree and has been an active member of the UWW community ever since. Through his work at UWW, Aaron has also had the opportunity to engage with the Upper Midwest Region of the Association of College and University Housing Officers, first as a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee and now as its Chair. Aaron’s ultimate goal in Student Affairs is to be a guiding light for the individuals he is privileged to work with and support.

I am Fabio Rodrigues, the Assistant Director for Business and Dining Operations at the James R. Connor University Center, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. In my role, I focus on enhancing quality control and operational efficiency, working closely with various departments to ensure smooth integration across campus. Before joining the University, I spent 15 years in the private sector, where I developed my skills in improving efficiency and building effective teams. I am passionate about bringing diversity and empowerment to young leaders and fostering an inclusive and dynamic work environment.

Boozhoo, Waase-giizhigookwe nindizhinikaaz miinawaa Cali Quaderer inda. Makwa nindoodem. Odaawaa-zaaga’iganing nindoonjibaa. Hello, my name is Waase-giizhigookwe in Ojibwemowin and in English I am called Cali Quaderer. I am Bear Clan. I am from the Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Ojibwe Reservation. Cali serves as the Indigenous Programs Coordinator at UW- Superior. Cali, an enrolled member of the Lac Courte Oreilles tribe, she has passionately dedicated her career to serving and giving back to tribal communities. Her work includes cultural programming, youth development, and continuing education, reflecting her commitment to supporting and advocating for tribal communities.

I am currently reaching two year of service with UWM as the Residence Live Coordinator and I am enjoying every moment of it. I have been working in Higher Education since 2016 with various roles that have shaped the professional I have been becoming in my career. I enjoy traveling, hiking, scuba diving, and seeing my friends and family. Wisconsin is a favorite place that I am happy to get to call home and am excited to be able to get to grow and change in my role with UWM.

Artist Services Manager and Assistant Programming Advisor to the Wisconsin Union Directorate's Performing Arts Programming Commitee

Kate Schwartz joined UW-Madison in 2021. As Artist Services Manager for the Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT) she manages the intricate details of the theater season’s performances and ensures seamless communication between artists and event stakeholders. With nearly 20 years of experience in arts and entertainment, Kate brings a deep passion for the field and a commitment to campus and community engagement, as exemplified by her work as an advisor to student leaders on the Wisconsin Union Directorate’s Performing Arts Programming Committee (WUDPAC). She finds fulfillment in the collaborative nature of her job and is enthusiastic about the arts as a driving force in her leadership philosophies.

Alicia Stuedemann - she/her - I graduated from the Educational Leadership Masters program at UW Oshkosh in May of 2016. I am working as the Director of New Student & Family Retention Programs at UW Oshkosh. I enjoy interacting with people and working with students at a university level. I believe in the mission of Student Affairs, and I want to help foster student success by promoting educational, professional, and personal development. I strive to promote an inclusive community, which creates lifelong learners who contribute to a global society.

My name is Leann Sullivan. I am an UW-Whitewater Alumni with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and Master's Degree in Physical Education and Coaching. My work in higher education started as a NCAA bowling coach and transitioned into working in student affairs. During my time as a head coach, I was named NTCA (National TenPin Coaches Association) Coach of the Year on three occasions (2012/13, 2013/14 and 2023/2024), and volunteered my time to serve as NTCA President, Vice President and Secretary from 2016-2020. I have been able to use my coaching experience to provide mentorship, high level job experience and critical thinking skills to my student staff. In my role, I oversee programing, reservations and space utilization. During the 2023-2024 fiscal year, Warhawk Alley served over 3,400 unique students, which allowed them to connect with other Warhawks and build relationships.

Assistant Director of Academic Services

I am a native of Wisconsin having grown up a few miles northwest of Green Bay, but after some jumping around the Midwest for college and the earliest days of my professional life, I have embraced Milwaukee and UWM as my home for the long haul. I graduated from UW-Madison and began my professional journey as a high school math teacher about 15 years ago, but I quickly recognized that my passion for sports was something that I wanted to incorporate into my working life. After four years of teaching high school, I made a career transition to the world of academic support for NCAA athletes. I spent two years as a graduate assistant in athletics at Purdue University working closest with Boilermaker football and women's tennis student-athletes before transitioning to a full time role at Milwaukee working with our Panther men's and women's basketball, baseball, and volleyball teams. I love building genuine, meaningful relationships with student-athletes to help them achieve their long-term goals in life and being "in the trenches" with them as they navigate their classes. My favorite part about being in athletics at Milwaukee is the family-like camaraderie amongst everyone in the department and the chance to work with students who are using their college experience as a launching pad for incredibly exciting and diverse career paths.

Cole Verbeten (he/him) works in Housing and Residence Life at UW-Stevens Point as a Residence Hall Director. Previous to working in that department, he worked in Admissions and Recruitment as an Admissions Counselor. He graduated from UW-Stevens Point with a B.S. in Professional Communication, and is also a graduate student in UW-La Crosse's Student Affairs Administration program planning to graduate in May 2025. He is also active in ACPA's Graduate Student and New Professional Community of Practice serving as a Coordinator for Convention Ambassadors. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys playing pickleball, spending time outdoors, and being with friends and family.

Angie is currently entering her 13th year at her alma mater, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, as part of the Student Engagement & Campus Life team. Angie has been actively engaged in student affairs work for over two decades both professionally on college campuses and personally serving in multiple volunteer roles with professional associations. In her current role, she assists with student activities, fraternity and sorority life, alternative breaks, speaker series, advising student organizations, and assisting with student union management. Angie also currently serves as the President of the Senate for Academic Staff for the University. In her free time, Angie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, being an aunt and great aunt of 20, reading any mystery book, and spoiling her 9 year old miniature border collie, Jaxton Rio.

Lee is the UW-River Falls Disability Resource Center Accommodations Coordinator. They oversee academic accommodations for the university, supervise student staff, and implement disability inclusive programming campus wide. Lee graduated from UWRF in 2018 with a bachelor's in social work. Lee is excited to expand their education with the SALA program to continue making intersectional progress in higher education.

Cole Kallio-Crotteau serves as a Senior Complex Director for University Housing where he assists and supports the student’s living within the residence halls on campus. Cole came back to Whitewater after completing his Master’s Degree at Eastern Illinois University. Cole previously attended UW-Whitewater and received his BBA in Human Resources in 2016. From Cole’s time working here at Whitewater as a Resident Assistant, to his current role, his priority has always been the students and their success. Cole’s work with students has expanded beyond housing, as he completed his Master’s Thesis titled, “How Federal Work-Student Affects the College Student Experience”. Cole’s dedication to students and the success in college is focused on their holistic development and growth both in the classroom and in the halls. Cole serves the greater Whitewater student body with humility and enthusiasm.

Nicole is currently entering her third year as the Pride Center Coordinator at UW-Green Bay. Her passions include LGBTQIA2S+ community outreach, programming and history. In the summers, Nicole is the Pride Camps Director for students ages 11-18 years-old. She has a MS in Student Personnel Administration and a BA and AA in Graphic Design and Illustration.

Jake Wozniak works in Athletics at UW-Stevens Point as the Head Women’s Wrestling Coach, Associate Head Men’s Wrestling Coach, and Athletics Academic Success Coordinator. Upon graduating in 2011, Jake began working on campus coaching wrestling, managing the climbing wall, and running Pathways to Point trips for incoming first-year students. He then worked in the Tutoring-Learning Center as the Academic Skills Specialist before moving full-time into Athletics in 2018. Jake spends his free time watching sports and enjoying nature.

Blythe McConaughey (she/hers) graduated from the University of Wisconsin La Crosse in 2005 and has served as Violence Prevention Specialist since 2021. Blythe has been professionally engaged with anti-violence advocacy for more than 15 years, and before coming to UWL, she was the advocate in the Center for Awareness of Sexual Assault at UW Eau Claire. A graduate of Minnesota State University Mankato in 2011, Blythe is also co-chair of the La Crosse County Sexual Assault Response Team and is active in the movements for reproductive justice and LGBTQ+ equality. When she’s not advocating or teaching, she’s likely reading a book or playing with Monster, her 4-year-old rescue pup.

Reg Hawkins serves as a Complex Director in the Office of Residence Life at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. At UWL, Reg oversees the day-to-day management of 2 first-year student residence halls that are designed to support the success of historically marginalized voices, promote a sense of belonging, and advocate for social justice. As a Complex Director, Reg currently supports the in-hall experiences of the Gender Inclusive Housing Community, Multicultural Validation Program, and UWL First Scholars. Reg’s work with these programs aims to support their development through educational opportunities that affirm their lived experiences and empower them to be leaders in the UWL campus community. In addition to this work, Reg serves as an advisor to Black Student Unity and Title IX Investigator for the university.
Reg has received degrees from the University of Central Arkansas (M.S. ED) and Mississippi State University (B.A.) and is currently seeking a Doctor of Education Degree in Student Affairs Administration and Leadership at the University of Wisconsin La-Crosse.

My name is Jaclyn Lee and I am the Curricular Enrollment Coordinator in the Registrar's Office at my alma mater, the University of Wisconsin - River Falls. In my role I work with departments in organizing all things related to class schedules and grade rosters. I currently live in New Glarus, WI with my fiancé Eric and our cattle dog, Donna. We spend our time hiking, farming, nature walks and anything else that gets us outdoors!

Rachel Rautmann is a board-certified, doctorally prepared Nurse Practitioner at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Student Health and Wellness Center. Rachel has been actively working in healthcare for almost 3 decades, climbing the ladder from EMT, to medical assistant, registered nurse, and finally nurse practitioner. She has been working at UWM since 2020 and has recently been appointed to a new role as the Assistant Director of Medical Services. She is inspired daily by the energy that the college students bring to campus.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys running, baking, and traveling, but her favorite thing to do is enjoy great food with her husband and two college aged kids.

My name is Trevor Hanson. I am the Area Director for Residence Life at UW-Platteville. I am new to the role, having started in August, but not to UW-P, as I am a 2018 graduate (BS in Elementary Educated. Previously, I was a hall director at UWM and a graduate hall director at Northern Illinois University, where I received my master’s of science in Higher Education and Student Affairs in 2021. In my free time, I have been enjoying running, reading all the fantasy novels that Tik Tok recommends, and spending time with my son, Parker.

Cindy Lopez Johnson has been at UW-Green Bay as a Multicultural Student Success Manager in the Multicultural Resource Center since August 2020. As a first-generation college graduate, Cindy has had the passion to help students from underserved backgrounds find their version of success in higher education for almost 10 years. Cindy graduated from the UW-Green Bay in 2013 with a double major in Human Development and Spanish. She earned her Master’s of Arts in Higher Education: College Student Affairs from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2015. Cindy has experience working at two-year technical college as well as mid-size public 4-year institutions.

In her free time, Cindy enjoys crafting, reading, kayaking, spending time outdoors, and traveling. She currently lives in Appleton with my husband, Jake, their 2-year old daughter, Elena, and 3 furbabies.

Anya (they/she) has served as International Programs Manager at UW-Superior for the past four years. In their role, Anya manages all study away at UW-Superior and also supports international student services as a DSO. Over the years, Anya has worked in various departments and divisions and came into Student Affairs about two years ago. Anya serves on Academic Staff Senate and has been involved with numerous campus initiatives, including the Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Committee, Global Community of Practice, Travel Advisory Committee, strategic planning initiatives, and as a contact tracer throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to working at UWS, Anya lived and worked for several years in Malawi and South Africa through both the Peace Corps and Perivoli Schools Trust. Anya is also a UW-Superior alum who enjoys traveling, wildlife photography, and spending time in the garden.

My higher education career began at Hamline University as an English instructor in Fall 2007. While I enjoyed my time in the classroom, it was the advisor responsibilities that engaged me the most and inspired me to pursue a career in Student Affairs in 2013. Since then, I have worked at UW-Stout and UW-River Falls in a variety of areas including Academic Advising, TRIO Student Support Services, and Career Services. In my current role at UW-River Falls, I oversee Exploratory Advising and Tutoring Services. My educational background is in writing, which is the subject of my Master of Fine Arts degree from Hamline University and Bachelor of Arts degree from Bethel University. Since making the career transition to Student Affairs, I consistently seek out opportunities to increase my knowledge of the field and am grateful to be a part of the Student Affairs Leadership Academy.

Lisa Raethke is the Student Health Promotions Manager at the University of Wisconsin – Stout. She is a graduate of Luther College with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Previously serving as the interim Student Health Director, she is the liaison between the University and the provider of Student Health Services on campus. She leads a group of student peer health educators called the Wellness PROs that organize and conduct many health and mental health events on campus. She serves as the Co-chair of both the campus Wellness Committee and Sexual Violence Coalition and promotes wellness activities for faculty, staff, and students. Lisa also is a member of the Behavioral Intervention Team and does case management for students with health issues through the Dean of Students office.
Lisa and her husband Chuck are the parents to 3 adult children and live in rural Pepin, Wisconsin.

My name is Summer Thompson (she/her) and I am currently a Residence Hall Director at UW-Stevens Point, and this will be my third year. I am from De Pere, WI and went to UWSP for my undergrad where I graduated with a B.S in Interpersonal and Organization Communication. After graduating from UWSP, I decided I wanted to make a difference for college students and get my Masters in Higher Education at Walden University. I graduated in Summer 2022. During my time in Graduate school, I was also a Graduate Hall Director in a non-traditional student building at UWSP. During my free time, I like to spend time with my family, friends, partner and create resin jewelry. I have a 1-year-old Corgi named Louie and a 5-year-old cat named Holly!

Jui-Han (Jo) Solverson brings a wealth of diverse experiences to healthcare leadership. Her educational journey includes undergraduate degrees in Public Health from the University of Illinois and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Loyola, followed by a Master's Degree in Adult Medicine and a Teaching Certificate from Wayne State University. She holds a post-graduate certificate in Family Medicine from the University of Massachusetts Boston.

With an 18-year career as a nurse practitioner, Jo has provided dedicated care across all life stages. For the past 3.5 years, she's been part of UW Whitewater's healthcare team, focusing on student healthcare. Prior roles include caring for patients at Aurora Advocate Health System and supporting active-duty military families at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, where she led the diabetes management team.
Jo's love for exploration is not limited to her profession; it extends to her deep passion for travel. Since 2015, alongside her spouse, an ophthalmologist, and their four children, she has embarked on surgical mission trips to Honduras, restoring vision to those in great need.

I am an Academic Advising Coordinator for a TRIO program called TRIO Project AIM at UW-Eau Claire in the Services for Students with Disabilities Office. TRIO Project AIM is a federal grant program that assists students with disabilities in graduating from higher education. I have been in this role for almost 7 years. Previously, I worked as a Transfer Coordinator in the Admissions Office at UW-Eau Claire. I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado and my master’s degree from UW-Madison in Rehabilitation Psychology. I’m originally from Eau Claire, WI. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, gardening, hiking, playing board games with my family, and watching our middle school and high school age kids play sports.

I am Calvin Watts, and I have served as the College Advisor for the College of Social Sciences and Professional Studies at UW Parkside. Before this role, I was an Academic Advisor at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. I completed my undergraduate degree in History from South Dakota State University, and my master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from St. Cloud State University. My central academic advising philosophy centers around meeting students where they are at, and this means deeply focusing my methods in a way any student can understand. In my spare time, I study American history (with a heavy focus on the life of Theodore Roosevelt), volunteering at the Civil War Museum in Kenosha, WI, serving as Vice President for the Friends of the Library of Kenosha, voraciously reading and perusing any bookstore I can find, long hikes, and spending time with my family and wonderful wife, Margaret.

Hello! My name is Katie Morois and I serve as an Assistant Dean of Students & Case Manager at UW-Green Bay. I work primarily on our Marinette Campus, however, I serve students across all four of our campus locations. Prior to my time at UW-Green Bay, I worked as a school counselor for 7 years. I look forward to learning from Student Affairs leaders and professionals across the UW System and growing my network of people doing this important work!

Alexis began her Student Affairs journey as a Resident Assistant at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. She then pursued a Master’s of Education in College Student Personnel at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where she also worked as a Graduate Assistant Community Director. After graduating in 2017, Alexis went on to work as a Hall Director for Minnesota State University Mankato. In January 2022, Alexis moved back to her home state of Wisconsin and began working for the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse as a Complex Director for the Residence Life Department. Other functional areas Alexis has volunteered or worked in are Academic Advising, Orientation, Student Activities, and Retention.

Laura 'Lars' Larsen is currently a building caretaker with University Housing at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. They on their tenth school year season and come from a hospitality and high adventure background. They have formal post-secondary training in the fine arts. Lars has valued working on the frontlines of the student experience and finding opportunities to affect campus through the Events and Outreach Committee as well as the Waste Reduction Workgroup. They value the power of community and collaboration in making better, more sustainable campus environments.

I am going on my 13th year as the center director at the Helen R. Godfrey - University Child Learning and Care Center at UWSP, and a former student of the University of Wisconsin-Stout, where I received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 3) and double minored in Psychology and Human Development/Family Studies. Prior to my current role, I worked in the same field but within the private, for-profit sector within WI and TX. I sway heavily as a type-A personality and tend to be goal/outcome driven with a tad OCD sprinkled in there.

I grew up on a farm in central WI and was raised with a very hard work ethic, actively involved in sports (basketball and softball), hunting, snowmobiling, and in our local 4-H club. Outside of my career, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, my daughter Kynlee is currently 2½ an loves going for UTV rides. I am a pool/billiards league team member two nights a week on a men’s and women’s league. When time (and finances) allow, I enjoy traveling especially to the tropical destinations.

Lisa Roth graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, with a B.A. in Social Work. She spent the next few years as a health care professional in the private sector before returning to her alma mater. Lisa entered the field of higher education as a team member in the Dean of Students Office. She has been afforded the opportunity to work in a variety of areas which have included student misconduct, behavioral intervention, advocacy, education, and case management. Her soft skills, communication style, attention to detail, determination and strong work ethic have helped her to seamlessly transition between the various unique areas within her role. Today, as the Lead Student Conduct Community Standards Coordinator and Title IX Investigator, she strives to ensure students, faculty and staff feel welcomed, valued, respected and supported.

Dana Gordon is a Disability Services Manager, Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Program Manager, and Sign Language Interpreter at UW-Whitewater. She graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Exceptional Education with a focus on Interpreting and ASL Studies from UW-Milwaukee, and received her Master’s in Higher Education from UW-Whitewater. She has worked at UW-Whitewater in the Center for Students with Disabilities for the past nine years. Dana also serves on the Academic Staff Assembly and as the advisor of the American Sign Language Club on campus. She is honored to have been nominated and selected for this immeasurable professional growth opportunity. In her free time, Dana enjoys playing the cello and spending time with family and friends, especially her husband, four-year-old daughter, and two dachshunds.

Kim Clarksen (she, her, hers) is an Assistant Director of University Center Student Activities and Involvement at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater.  Her more than twenty years of service to the institution have included a variety of roles in campus events and activities including planning and implementing campus-wide programs, building community connections through service programs, advising the Segregated Fee Allocation Committee and the allocable funding process, and working alongside peers to guide the involvement experience for students.  Through software management, oversight of student organization recognition, promotion of activities to explore campus opportunities , and assessment of those experiences, Kim's work focuses on guiding students to understand the value of their involvement experiences.  

Kaitlyn (she/her) is a dedicated professional committed to supporting student growth and development while fostering a sense of community on campus. With four years of experience in Student Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Kaitlyn has the privilege of serving as a Complex Director within University Housing for a second year. Her educational journey began with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2018, where she developed a strong foundation in analytical thinking. Kaitlyn continued to pursue her passion for education, earning a Master of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in December 2022. Kaitlyn’s favorite part of working within Student Affairs is connecting with students and witnessing their personal, academic, and social development while making campus their home. She is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all she interacts with and looks forward to participating in the Student Affairs Leadership Academy.

My name is Emily Johnson (she/her) and I am in my fifth year at University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point as a Complex Director, overseeing Pray-Sims and Smith Halls. I received my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Superior in Sociology and Psychology and then went on to get my Masters in Leadership in Student Affairs from the University of St. Thomas. I have worked in housing throughout my schooling and in my sixth professional year but have also worked in student activities and leadership roles. I am excited to be joining the Student Affairs Leadership Academy to network with others in the UW System and learn how to continue to best support my students and maintain my student center approaches. I look forward to continue growing as a student affairs educator, especially with the ever changing needs of college students.

Ann serves as the Associate Director and Training Coordinator at the Student Counseling Center at UW-Stout. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin, and carries a clinical caseload in addition to her leadership and training responsibilities. Ann attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, earning a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Psychology, with a minor in Women and Gender Studies. She earned a Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UW-Stout in 2015.

Hannah has been working in outdoor campus recreation since 2014, and she currently oversees UW Milwaukee's Outdoor Pursuits bike shop, trips program, and rental equipment operations with the help of the student staff team. She is a strong advocate for teaching students how to play outside in their own backyards and the importance of all forms of recreation and leisure within student affairs and beyond. 

My name is Lissa Balison . I have been a master’s level mental health counselor for over 17 years. I have been with UWGB for 11 years. It took me a little bit of time to find my path to graduate school but once I did I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I wanted to work on a college campus as a mental health provider. I have been lucky enough to have found a job doing what I dreamed of doing and have been able to do that within an excellent state university system.
I provide a collaborative, supportive, safe space for people to gain insight, explore their lives, and build skills for change. Areas of interest: -Anxiety -Mindfulness -Stress Management and work/life balance -Trauma response -Grief -Relationship Issues -Family Concerns -Academic stress -Career Exploration -Life Transition -Self-Esteem Issues.

Ben Minogue serves as the Interim Director for the Student Association Professional Staff. He previously worked in Residence Life at Northern Illinois University, and Western Illinois University as a graduate student. Ben holds a Master’s in College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University, and a Bachelors in Geography from UW-Whitewater. Ben is passionate about designing effective training, experiential learning, leadership development, and helping students engage with their educational experience. He enjoys hiking, fishing, biking, cheap coffee, and houseplants.

Jacob Foulker is the Program Specialist for the Greek Community and Service at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Prior to this position, he served as a Pre-College Admissions Coach based out of UW-Whitewater to represent the UW System to high school students in Rock County, Wisconsin. Jacob obtained his bachelor's in political science and master's in higher education leadership from UW-Whitewater. He lives in Beloit, Wisconsin, with his wife, Yadira, and three children.

My name is Wendy Leach and I have been at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for 14 years. I started my career in the One Stop Shop that was created for Student Billing and Financial aid together. I worked in that position for 2.5 years and then received a position in the financial aid office. I started as an analyst and within a few months became a Financial Aid counselor. I have remained in this role for the last 11.5 years and became a SR financial aid counselor 5 years ago. I have learned so many things working in financial aid, but the best part is working with students and families on a daily basis as I help them with their financial aid journey.