Member Spotlight | April 2026

The MIACADA Member Spotlight showcases exceptional individuals who make a significant impact on the advising profession and our organization. Each feature highlights a member whose dedication and contributions inspire us all. Join us in celebrating their remarkable achievements and commitment to advising. Know someone who should be recognized? Let us know! Nominate them today!

Tell us a little about your professional journey. What has your career path looked like leading up to your current role?

My path to academic advising started in student affairs. As an undergraduate at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, I was heavily involved on campus through the marching band, Greek Life, and New Student Orientation. Those experiences sparked my interest in working with college students and helping them navigate their college experience. I later earned my master’s in Counselor Education, Student Affairs from Mississippi State University, where I worked as a graduate assistant in Housing and Residence Life.

I joined Ferris State University in 2016 as a Professional Hall Director. Working in Residence Life helped me realize how much I enjoyed the academic and goal-setting conversations with students. That eventually led me to transition into academic advising in the College of Engineering Technology, where I now support students through complex programs while also helping them build confidence in their path.

When you’re not advising, what are some activities, hobbies, or interests that bring you joy?

When I’m not working at Ferris State University academic advising, I enjoy spending time in ways that help me recharge and stay connected to my family and community. I like supporting local events and exploring different parts of Michigan with friends and family.

Since the COVID-19 lockdown, cooking and baking have also become a big hobby of mine. It started when I picked up a free sourdough starter from Facebook Marketplace, and it turned into a fun journey of learning and experimenting in the kitchen. I especially enjoy taking on food “challenges.” Right now, I’m a little obsessed with macarons and am on a mission to perfect the classic French cookie.

Overall, I try to balance work with quality time spent with family and friends. For me, it’s often the small and quiet everyday moments that make life the most enjoyable.

Can you share more about the time you have spent at Ferris State—what has made it meaningful for you?

I’ve been at Ferris State University since 2016, and what has made my time here meaningful is the opportunity to support students in different ways throughout their college journey. I started in Residence Life as a Professional Hall Director before transitioning into academic advising in the College of Engineering Technology.

Working with Engineering Technology pre-program students has been especially rewarding. The programs within the college are rigorous, and students often face a lot of pressure. Being able to support them through academic planning while also encouraging them when things feel challenging is something I really value.

I’ve also been fortunate to work with colleagues across campus who care deeply about student success. That sense of shared commitment is what makes Ferris such a meaningful place to work.

Congratulations on receiving the 2025 Ferris State University’s Outstanding Academic Advisor Award! What did it mean to you to receive this recognition?

Receiving the 2025 Outstanding Academic Advisor Award was incredibly meaningful and honestly a little humbling. Advising is work that often happens behind the scenes, so being recognized by the university meant a lot.

For me, the award reflects the relationships built with students over time. Some of the most important advising moments happen when students are struggling or doubting themselves, and being able to help them find a path forward is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

It also reinforced how much I value this pocket of academia. Advising has a real impact on students’ experiences, success, and retention. I feel extremely fortunate to be part of this journey with them.

What experiences or memories with MIACADA stand out the most to you?

One of the things I appreciate most about MIACADA is the strong sense of community among advisors across Michigan. Advising can sometimes feel very campus-focused, so it’s helpful to connect with colleagues who understand the work and share similar goals.

The conferences and winter networking events have always stood out to me. They create space to exchange ideas, learn new approaches, and hear how others are supporting students at their institutions. They’re also a great reminder that no matter the campus, many of us are navigating the same challenges… and sometimes it’s just nice to have a room full of people who understand and can be safe place to vent a little.

I’ve also appreciated how welcoming the MIACADA community is. Whether someone is new to advising or has been in the field for many years, there’s a shared commitment to supporting students and continuing to grow as students and into professionals.

What advice would you share with professionals who are just beginning their careers in academic advising?

My biggest piece of advice is to focus on building relationships with students. While understanding policies and curriculum is the gig, the most impactful advising happens when students feel heard, respected, and supported.

I would also encourage new advisors to stay curious and keep learning. Getting involved with professional organizations like MIACADA, attending virtual learning opportunities, and exploring advising certifications can really help you grow in the role.

Finally, give yourself time to develop your advising style. Everyone brings different strengths and experiences to advising, and it’s okay if that takes time to figure out. The key is staying student-centered and remembering why this work matters.