Embarking on the graduate school journey can be a challenging experience, but it helps if you understand the major players involved in that experience. The “Link to Leadership” series features Q&As with UAB's Graduate School leaders and an opportunity for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to get to know these leaders on a deeper level.

Q: Why did you accept this position within the Graduate School?

A: “I love the energy in the Graduate School. There are so many new and innovative things happening here. I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Q: What is your background?

A: "I have a B.S. in Communication Studies from the University of Montevallo and an M.A. in Communication Management from UAB. Before coming to the Graduate School, I worked in the UAB Office of the Registrar – first as the Catalog Editor, and then as the Graduate Degree Audit Coordinator."

Q: How long have you been in this role? What are your specific responsibilities?

A: “Still a newbie - I’ve been in the Grad School 2 months. I audit and award graduate degrees and certificates.”

Q: What drew you to this particular area of work?

A: “In my previous position in the UAB Office of the Registrar, I programmed the graduate degree audit. I knew I could be a great resource to help students and program directors navigate the system.”

Q: If you were talking with a group of incoming UAB students, what would you most want them to know about you and your hopes for their experience at the Graduate School?

A: “I really love this city. From art to music to food, there are so many hidden gems in Birmingham. I hope you take the time to explore the opportunities available both on and off campus.”

Q: What influences have shaped you?

A: “It’s never too late to learn something new. Working in higher education inspired me to become a college drop-in. I finished the undergraduate degree I abandoned in 1989 in 2013. My college career took me from floppy disks to flash drives.”

Q: What do you like to do for fun?

A: “After a 20-year hiatus from the stage, I’ve recently gotten back into theatre. Birmingham has a vibrant community theatre scene. Birmingham Festival Theatre, Terrific New Theatre, and Theatre Downtown are just a few of the venues within blocks of UAB to catch a great show at a great price.”

Q: Tell me a bit about your family.

A: “I have two adult children who live in Birmingham. My son received a Masters at UAB and my daughter is currently working on her undergrad here. I spend most of my free time either on stage or on a bicycle. There are some great social bike groups in town!”