Meet the Success Coaching Team

Sara Thor

Why I chose a career in student affairs

I wanted a variety of intern experiences to help me narrow down a career path. Through an experience with the McBurney Disability Resource center, I knew that I wanted to continue to work with college students in some capacity. I love listening to students talk about what they are passionate about in their education and their lives! Working within student affairs over the years in different roles has opened up my eyes to the variety of ways those of us in higher education can connect with and support our students.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach

I am looking forward to supporting students from the point of entry in their program through achieving their goals. I enjoy working with students beyond a one time or infrequent interactions. I want to be a point of contact and support when obstacles or life happens, and someone to cheer them on as they make forward progress.

Experience and Education

I wasn’t a person who knew what they wanted out of college. I started by earning an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree from UW-Waukesha. Through that experience I took a wide range of courses, which led me to the path of graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I knew I wanted to use counseling skills, but not in a therapeutic setting. I went on to earn a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Psychology from University of Wisconsin-Madison. It was through these experiences I found my interest in working with college students. I have 15 years of experience in accessibility services in both public and private colleges. Most recently I was a Disability Advisor Specialist with the Accessibility Resource Center of UW-Milwaukee.

Fun Stuff

When the weather cooperates, I enjoy exploring different county and state parks throughout Wisconsin with my husband and dog. In 2021, our family grew, and we now enjoy taking our son along on these treks. I like taking the scenic route, making stops along the way, and looking up lesser-known roadside attractions. I also enjoy bringing along my camera to capture family memories and the beauty in nature around us!

Olivia Crevier

Why I chose a career in student affairs?

I absolutely loved my time in higher education and I want to create the same wonderful experience I had for other students. Two of my biggest passions in life are learning and helping others, so a career in student affairs was a natural fit. I find it extremely rewarding to truly make a difference in someone’s life.

Experience, Education:

Bachelors of Arts in Psychology with a Dance minor and Human Services emphasis

Attended graduate school for School Counseling

Over four years of experience in Student Services

Certified Personal Trainer and Health/Wellness Coach

Fun Stuff:

I love spending time with my family, friends, and my African Grey parrot named Sam. In my free time, you can find me taking a Pilates class, reading a book, or listening to a true crime podcast. I also love Harry Potter and own three wands!

Breanna Rehor

Why I chose a career in student affairs

Along my educational journey, I had the pleasure to connect with wonderful mentors that created experience enhanced with the support I received. I chose a career in student affairs to create positive, safe, and supportive educational environments for students to learn about themselves and the world around us. As I help navigate through this journey with my students, I hope to provide them strategies for success to achieve their highest goals.

Best part of being a Student Success Coach

The best part of being a Student Success Coach is working with students along their educational journey to help problem solve when challenges arise and celebrate accomplishments. I really enjoy making connections with my students on an individual basis to learn about their unique stories and being their guide through this chapter in life.

Experience, education

Master of Science in Counseling and Student Development, College Student Affairs.
Bachelor of Science in Special Education, minor in Communicative Sciences and Disorders.

I have been working in Student Affairs since 2014. I have held positions in Student Success and Advising, Disability Services, Health and Counseling Services and First Year Experience.

Fun Stuff

My partner and I have a young son who keeps us on our toes and truly has shown us the meaning of living fully! We enjoy finding adventures both big and small as a family. Whether it’s exploring our local town events like the annual Strawberry Festival or traveling to places like the Paw Patrol play area in the Mall of America. When I do find some alone time, I love to walk around target with Starbucks in hand or catch up on a good movie or my favorite TV shows!

Maricela Palacio

Why I chose a career in student affairs

My educational journey as a first-generation college student has been a defining chapter of my life. It was a path filled with both challenges and triumphs, and it is something that has deeply shaped who I am today. I’m immensely grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the support I received along the way. It is because of those experiences and the profound impact of my support team that I’m passionate about helping students navigate their educational paths and be an advocate to best support their goals.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach

Every student has their own unique story, dreams, and goals. I’m most eager to cultivate connections and build a supportive environment where students can open up and share their aspirations. I see it as a privilege to be the one they trust to guide them through this significant chapter in their lives. Therefore, I’m committed to serving as a liaison between students and the support systems they need. I also enjoy helping students problem-solve and overcome obstacles on their way to success.

Experience and Education

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee. While in college I worked with students in various capacities that have truly inspired me and shaped my passion in wanting to focus my career on higher education. Most recently, I worked as an enrollment adviser focusing on appropriately guiding and supporting online student learners in finding a program or course(s) that best fit their goals at UW-Extended Campus for 5 years.

Fun Stuff

I really cherish the time I get to spend with my family; it is so important to me. Whether we’re going on road trips, fishing, or simply hanging out at home watching thriller movies, those moments are priceless. Oh, and I’m definitely a foodie too! Throughout the year you can find me exploring new restaurants and cuisines around the Milwaukee area.

Ariel Powers-Schaub

Success Coaching Team Lead

Why I chose a career in student affairs?

As a college student, I was helped greatly by my mentors and advisers. I didn’t realize how many people on campus were there specifically to help me as a student! I want to pass that on by supporting and encouraging every student I can.

What I love about being a success coach:

I love helping students find what success means to them, from getting through that first assessment, to graduation, and everything in between. UW Flexible Option students come from many different educational and experiential backgrounds, and I enjoy helping students find their unique path.

Experience & education:

I earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with a minor in Gender Studies from Northern Michigan University, and a Master’s of Science in Education – Professional Development from University of Wisconsin Whitewater. Through graduate school and for a few years after, I worked in university housing. I have been an Academic Success Coach with UW Flexible Option since 2016.

Fun stuff:

I enjoy spending time with family and enjoying the Wisconsin outdoors with my energetic dog. I can often be found reading, watching movies, or trying my hand at a new dessert recipe.

Amanda Murphy

Why I chose a career in student affairs

Student Affairs found me when I was working towards other plans. When I look back on the things I really enjoyed during my undergraduate and graduate experiences, it was the on-campus student leadership and employment that stood out. It’s funny how sometimes your extra curriculars can turn into a rewarding career, and I credit my mentors for encouraging me to pursue this path. I appreciate those who saw the transferable skills I brought to the table and took a chance on me.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach

I’m looking forward to getting to know, listening to, collaborating with, celebrating, helping remove roadblocks, advocating for, and walking alongside others as they pursue their goals.

Experience and Education

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design & Art History from Oregon State University. After taking some time off, I returned to school to earn a Master of Science in Management Communication from the University of Portland. I was drawn to Wisconsin after completing my graduate degree to serve as a Complex Director in University Housing at UW-Whitewater. Most recently I’m coming from UW-Whitewater’s First Year Experience Office, previously serving as the Manager of Mentor Programs.

Fun Stuff

I enjoy spending time with my partner, daughter, & dog hiking, meeting friends on the Memorial Union Terrace, trying out a new restaurant, or exploring the local botanical gardens.

Samantha Crawford

Why did I choose a career in Student Affairs?

As a first generation college student, education has always been important to me. I have always wanted to be in a career where I was able to make a difference and I believe working in Student Affairs has allowed me to help students make a difference in their lives.

Experience, education:

Bachelors of Arts in Social Work and a Minor in Human Services

Masters of Science in Education; emphasis on Higher Education

Five years of experience in Student Services

What do I do in my free time?

I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my two dogs (Maya & Hazel). I spend a lot of my free time crafting and working on DIY projects.

Robin Schwenn

Why I chose a career in student affairs

My college years were some of the best years of my life, but it did come with many different challenges. From balancing school and work (juggling 4 different jobs at one time) to getting through some pretty tough courses, with a little trial and error, I was able to find strategies to move forward and reach my goals successfully. I enjoy working with students to help them find solutions that work for their unique situations and learning styles.

Experience, Education

• Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from UW La Crosse
• Master of Science in School Counseling from UW Whitewater

I have worked in the Student Services field since 2007.

My favorite way to spend a Saturday:

In the summer, my husband and I go to our camper in Rio, Wisconsin almost every weekend. So my favorite Saturdays are spent at the camper, waking up and sitting out on the deck with a caffeinated beverage and enjoying the sights and sounds of the outdoors. In the afternoon, spending time with family and friends hanging out by the pool, or at the beach, or playing yard games at our site. Then to top it all off, sitting around a campfire at night with our friends and fellow campers, telling ridiculous stories and laughing until our stomachs hurt.

Stacy Tinholt

Stephanie Galica

Why I chose a career in student affairs

I started my career in higher education while I was still an undergraduate student. I worked in the dean’s office as part of my work study. I fell in love with the energy of a college setting. A college campus is a naturally ambitious and hopeful place. Every person that is there is there because they are striving for something more – whether it’s a new career, a promotion, or just a better understanding of the world around them. After I graduated, I quickly came to realize that as much as I loved the sciences, my passion was working with students.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach

I know that going to school can feel overwhelming and lonely at times, particularly for an adult learner. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and expertise to make a student’s experience more enjoyable by providing information and resources and removing barriers.

Experience and Education

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Texas A&M University, and a master’s in public health from the University of New England. I started my career in higher education 15 years ago as a graduate advisor at the University of Maryland University College. Ten years ago, I began working at a satellite location of Aurora University (AU) called George Williams College. During my time there, I was a recruiter for their graduate, transfer, and adult degree completion programs. Most recently, I worked for another satellite location of AU in Woodstock, IL as a recruiter/advisor for graduate and adult degree completion programs.

Fun Stuff

I have two young kiddos, and so “free time” generally consists of keeping them entertained so that they don’t destroy things! When I do get a moment to myself, I like to do work in my garden and sit on my porch swing and enjoy a cup of coffee with my husband.

Danny Schindler

Why I chose a career in student affairs:

During my undergraduate program, I realized that the positions that I enjoyed working were around helping students feel comfortable and confident during their transition into college. Navigating higher education can be both daunting and draining. I appreciated the opportunity to help alleviate this stress and found my groove in learning more in graduate school about how I can continue to be my best self for all students. I’m thrilled to use what I have been talking about and learning to make a difference to those I serve.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach:

I love to learn about students’ individual paths and what brought them to where they are now. I will do my best to provide thoughtful resources and referrals, a listening ear, and a helping spirit to motivate students to feel confident with the choices they make. I’ve had amazing role models during my academic journey, and I am excited for the opportunity to pay it forward with the students I will be working with.

Experience and Education

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a Bachelor of Science in Communication and a minor in Religious Studies. Upon this, I discovered that my passion was in Student Affairs and Higher Education and earned my Master of Science in Counseling and Student Personnel: College Student Affairs at Minnesota State University, Mankato. During this program, I served in Residential Life as a Student Services Coordinator and Career Advisor through the Career Development Center there.

Fun Stuff:

Outside of the Success Coach position, I love spending my weekends with my family, friends, and partner. Whether this is through exploring cities, camping and guitar playing, or bowling in a league, I always try to keep myself busy!

Carolyn Stegmann

Director of Student Success

What do you hope never changes?

Human kindness.

How do you relax after a hard day of work?

Though it is not always easy, I believe it is very important to separate work from home life and find it helpful to stick to a consistent schedule for when one facet ends and another begins. I find joy and rejuvenation when I can be present with family, friends and nature.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Hands down – my three children. I have always dreamed of the day I would become a mother and feel truly honored to serve in such an important role.

I chose to work in student affairs because….

I believe that access to support resources is just as important outside of the classroom as it is inside to maximize student success.

What’s your favorite quote?

“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” – John C. Maxwell

Jessica Ramirez Torres

Why did I choose a career in Student Affairs?

During my undergraduate studies I knew I always wanted to be in higher education but I was not sure what direction I wanted to go in. The opportunity to work in student affairs came up and I have been working with students ever since.

Experience, education:

Ten years experience in Student Services

Bachelors of Science in English and Minor in Women’s Studies

Masters of Arts in Education Curriculum and Instruction

What do I do in my free time?

I spend a lot of time with my family. I love animals. I have a Chihuahua (Oompa) and two cats (Mittens & Honey). My favorite music is Reggaeton and I love to go dancing.

Jenna Swartz

Why I chose a career in student affairs:

During my undergraduate and graduate school journey, I was guided by mentors and peers, which ignited a desire to follow in their footsteps and pursue a career in Student Affairs. Assisting students in actualizing their potential and steering them through the ever-changing world of Higher Education is extremely rewarding.  Finding opportunities to advocate on behalf of students has been the most gratifying part of my career thus far.

What I’m looking forward to most about being a Success Coach:

Building relationships with students and learning their stories in order to support them in achieving their unique goals and aspirations. Having the opportunity to engage with and learn from new and returning learners was a primary reason I wanted to become a Success Coach. I am eager to walk alongside these students to help make connections, remove barriers, provide resources, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Experience and Education:

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western New England University. While in college, I discovered the field of Student Affairs which led me to pursue a Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Colorado State University. I began my Student Affairs career at University of Wisconsin-Madison where I served as a Residence Life Coordinator for five years. Most recently, I served as an Assistant Director of Residence Life at University of Wisconsin-Parkside.

Fun Stuff:

I enjoy spending time with my partner and dog, family in Wisconsin and Massachusetts, and friends. I can often be found on the softball diamond or playing a round of golf during the summer months, watching a Packers Game or rooting for my home team, the Boston Red Sox, travelling, or exploring our beautiful state of Wisconsin.

Michael Paul

Why I chose a career in student affairs

As a college student, I relied heavily on the guidance I received from advisers and other personnel around campus. I noticed how much my experience in school was enhanced from the outstanding support I received. I chose a career in Student Affairs because I wanted to be a part of a highly collaborative setting to assist online students improve their connectedness to their campus and its resources. As an active listener and proactive coach, I hope to make an impact on students’ well-being and ability to succeed.

Best part of being a Student Success Coach

There’s nothing more satisfying than helping a student make connections and succeed. I really enjoy getting to know students on an individual basis and empowering them to seek out the resources they need for a positive educational journey. There’s always bound to be bumps in the road, but it’s extremely gratifying to help someone smooth them out and learn from the experience.

Experience, Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, minor in English – Technical Communication
• Over ten years of higher education experience
• Been a part of the Student Affairs staff at UW-Extension since 2013

Fun Stuff

I worked as a projectionist while in college and briefly considered a career in film/cinema. I loved working with film on a daily basis, but decided that my appreciation for the field was enough for me and moved on. As genuine filmstrip is replaced by digital platforms, perhaps I can get involved with it again in a “vintage” capacity some day!