Ellie Hansen

I am very grateful to have the opportunity to serve CCI students as the Director of Academic Advising here at Kent State University and to be back in my home state of Ohio. 
 
After earning my Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Kenyon College, I decided to use my critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the field of higher education administration. I earned my Masters of Arts in Education and Human Development from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. while working full-time for the university. 
 
I have worn a lot of hats during my time in higher education managing a pre-semester program for hundreds of incoming first-year students, briefly overseeing four residence halls in downtown D.C., developing resources and research related to the first generation student experience, and working as an academic advisor for the liberal arts college at GW. When I found advising, I found my professional calling. I love being an anchor for students, helping guide them through complex challenges, celebrating their successes, and motivating them to keep trying when they face obstacles. I am constantly amazed by the impact academic advising (and advisors) can have in transforming the lives of students. In my role as Director, I use my knowledge of that impact to inform strategic decision-making and to find innovative ways of supporting and advocating for students.
 
My office door is always open (both figuratively and often literally). If you stop by to see me, you will see pictures of my son, husband, and cat, a lot of corny motivational quotes, books about assessment and student success, vegetarian snacks, and G.I. Joe figurines doing yoga.

(She/Her)