Elizabeth is a proud Grand Rapids Community College graduate who earned an Associate of Arts before transferring to Grand Valley State University, where she completed a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies. She continued her educational journey at Western Michigan University, earning a Master of Arts in Counseling Education with an emphasis in College Counseling. Elizabeth is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a fully Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Michigan.
As a proud first-generation college graduate, Elizabeth is passionate about helping students navigate higher education and achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals. Throughout her career at GRCC, she has served the college in a variety of roles, including student employee, administrative professional, Academic Advisor, Veterans Academic Advisor, Interim Program Director of Disability Support Services, and now Associate Director of Veterans Services.
Her diverse experience across the institution has included supporting students in the Academic Advising & Transfer Center, Disability Support Services, the Occupational Support Grant Program, and workforce and job training programs at the Tassell MTEC. These experiences have provided her with a broad understanding of student support services and the unique needs of GRCC's diverse student population.
As Associate Director of Veterans Services, Elizabeth leads the Veterans Center and oversees programs and services that support veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and military-connected students. She works collaboratively across campus and with community partners to ensure students successfully access and maximize their educational benefits while fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. Her work includes expanding veteran-centered programming, strengthening partnerships with Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs), developing the Student Veterans of America chapter at GRCC, and increasing awareness of the many resources available to military-connected students.
Elizabeth's background in counseling strengthens her approach to student support. As a licensed professional counselor, she has experience helping students navigate life transitions, mental health concerns, and barriers to academic success. She has also completed crisis response and disruptive event management training, equipping her to respond effectively during student and campus crises while supporting the well-being of the GRCC community.
Elizabeth believes every student deserves a strong support system and is committed to creating an environment where veterans and their families feel connected, respected, and empowered to succeed.
Professional Mission
"My professional mission is to empower students to successfully navigate higher education by providing compassionate support, removing barriers to success, and connecting them with the resources, opportunities, and community they need to achieve their educational and personal goals."
Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, biking, and camping with family and friends. She is a lifelong learner who enjoys reading, taking classes, and continually seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Degrees & Certifications
- Master of Arts (M.A.), Counseling Education – College Counseling
- National Certified Counselor (NCC)
- Certified in Crisis Response and Disruptive Event Management
