Hometown:
I grew up in Annandale, Minn., and now live in River Falls, Wis.

Degree(s) Earned:
B.S. Degree in Marketing Communications, UW-River Falls
M.A. Degree in Organizational Leadership, Gonzaga University

Position in FYE Office:
Director

Favorite hangout on campus and why:
The outdoor amphitheater.  It’s very scenic and a great gathering place for important campus events.

Favorite “best kept secret” in River Falls:
The hiking trails along the Kinnickinnic River.

Random fun fact about yourself:
My license plate says, UWRF FYE.  Yes, I do really love my job!

Hobbies/interests:
Spending time with family and friends, reading, crafting, knitting, baking, gardening, walking, fishing, swimming, and spending time outdoors.

Why are you proud to be a Falcon?
Our faculty and staff genuinely care about the success of our students.

What’s one thing you need to get you through the day?
Mountain Dew

Favorite campus activity/event:
I absolutely LOVE New Student Move In Day – it’s so exciting to see our new students and their families arrive on campus. The campus is filled with the hopes, fears, excitement, and anticipation of our students as their UWRF experience begins.

Advice for new students:
Make the most of your college experience …participate in campus events, join a club or organization, explore new ideas, ask for help when needed,  take advantage of campus resources, and connect with your faculty and staff - we’re here to help!

Advice for families/friends of new students:
During your student’s transition to campus, there may be moments of frustration, anger, disappointment, or confusion. There will also be times of great joy, satisfaction, hope, and anticipation. Do your best to support and encourage your son/daughter through all these changes.  Together, we can help your student in their journey to becoming an independent, responsible young adult. 

If you have any questions for me, please e-mail me at fye@uwrf.edu.

Hometown:
White Bear Lake, Minn.

Degree(s) Earned:
B.S. Elementary Education, UW-River Falls (2008)
M.A. Student Affairs Administration , UW-La Crosse (2011)

Position in FYE Office:
New Student and Family Programs Coordinator

Favorite hangout on campus and why:
Running the trails on campus and the check-in desk during FYE programs when I get to meet and greet new students and their families.

Favorite “best kept secret” in River Falls:
There are a ton of hidden gems in River Falls – trails, coffee shops, gift shops and more.  I’m not going to tell you which ones – I’m just going to encourage you to go explore and begin getting to know your new home away from home!

Random fun fact about yourself:
I am a thrill seeker and love to do new things.

Hobbies/interests:
Traveling, Weekends Up North, Reading, Cooking, Spending Time Outside, Running, Spending Time with Family and Friends,  Trying New Things, and Enjoying Life.

Why are you proud to be a Falcon?
The students, staff, and faculty have a genuine care and passion for the success of one another.  At UWRF you learn your potential and are encouraged to achieve it. 

What’s one thing you need to get you through the day?
A quality conversation with a student.  And sometimes a piece of chocolate. :)

Favorite campus activity/event:
How do I choose?!  From students’ first day on campus as a Falcon during New Student Registration, to lasting friendships forming during Week of Welcome, to students sharing their school pride with friends and family at Family Day – how does one choose?!

Advice for new students:
Prioritize, be confident and value yourself.  Learn not to confuse temptation with opportunity.  This is your experience; make it what you want it to be.  Be open to new opportunities and experiences.  Be willing to challenge yourself and change.  Live it and love it!

Advice for families/friends of new students:
Trust yourself.  You have dedicated yourself to your relationship with your student and his or her well-being for so long.  You’ve helped your student become who he or she is today.  You should be proud.  Be confident in your student and don’t worry, they will remember how you have influenced them and what you taught them.  Yes, your student is going to struggle at times and continue to need your support.  That’s part of learning and growing.  However, your student is also going to accomplish great things.  Give them the chance to experience UWRF and be ready to be amazed at all things they can and will do!

fye@uwrf.edu