Brianna received her Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education (SAHE) at Colorado State University. Within ALVS, Brianna serves as the Program Coordinator and oversees the ALVS Peer Advisors, ELEVATE (ALVS’ Summer Bridge), and the ALVS’ section of IU-172.

“As a neurodivergent first-generation student, I have a firm understanding of what it is like to feel alone, I know how hard it is to ask for help, and I also recognize that sometimes we may have no idea what type of support we need or are at a loss for how others can support us because so often we are used to doing things independently. So, I work diligently to build relationships with others to ensure that all individuals I come into contact with know that they have me as a part of their support system and that I am here to help them along their journey to and through graduation.”

Brianna is passionate about positive psychology, especially through the lens of strengths-based sciences. She thoroughly enjoys developing humans through the use of CliftonStrengths, strengths-based leadership, strengths-based teams, well-being, and workplace engagement.

CliftonStrengths: Achiever, Responsibility, Adaptability, Learner, Arranger

Some fun facts about Bri:

• She graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2018 with a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resources management, Go Big Red!
• She spent two years as an AmeriCorps member with College Possible in Omaha, NE before coming to graduate school here at CSU.
• In her free time, Bri enjoys disc golfing, geocaching, hiking, going to concerts, and bowling (even if she only occasionally breaks 100).

I consider myself the observant, quiet sort. Small talk is not my forte. Luckily, I am blessed with a passionate and excitable disposition. I am happy to lose track of time continuing a conversation while we walk the line between discussion and thinking out loud. In my free time I enjoy Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, and a long list of podcasts, audio dramas, and audio books. I also try to make time for myself to observe Zazen or lose myself in a particularly long walk along the bike paths. I prefer the latter when it is cold and dark outside. Seriously!

Despite my love for learning, I struggled to graduate from high school. I have ADHD and time management is difficult for me. I made it through, but I finished burnt out and lacking confidence. Knowing I would continue my education eventually, I pushed the idea to the back of my mind. Working was refreshing until years began melding together. Soon, under duress from my parents, I found myself chipping away at an associate degree at Front Range Community College. Stressed out, unsure of myself and my future, I rarely took more than a few classes at a time and often found a reason to take a semester off. Eventually, I recognized my time for change had arrived. Transferring to CSU seemed a natural progression. Growing up in Fort Collins, the sense that the campus was waiting for me grew every time I passed by.

When I transferred, the ALVS New Student Seminar played a large role in facilitating a comfortable and exciting transition. ALVS gave me an environment to work on my perspective. I belong in this community that celebrates the unique paths that bring adults to CSU and supports non-traditional students through their education. By applying insightful, innovative, and analytical strengths I aim to relate with my peers and share what trial and error has given to me.

I believe in discovering a calm and resonant sense of satisfaction in your habits that leaves time to delight in a quiet mind.