Carla serves as the Senior Director of the University Advising Center at the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL), where she oversees a team of four advisors dedicated to supporting undergraduate students during their first two years of college. Under her leadership, the UAC establishes a foundation for student success, helping students transition into upper-level coursework and achieve their academic and career goals. Carla previously spent four years as the Director of Undergraduate Advising for the College of Business Administration at UMSL. In this role, she oversaw a diverse team of nine advisors, a recruiter, an internship coordinator, a student support specialist, and graduate assistants, all working to provide comprehensive support to undergraduate students. Her leadership contributed to the college’s commitment to student success, retention, and professional development.
A proud alumna of UMSL, Carla completed her Ph.D. in Teaching & Learning Processes in May 2024. She also holds a Master of Arts in Adult and Higher Education and a Graduate Certificate in Social Justice, reflecting her commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Theology from Jacksonville Theology Seminary, giving her a unique perspective on education and student engagement. Carla’s dissertation research explored the complex interplay of faculty, advisor, and student perceptions of academic advising and its impact on student success at an urban university. The findings from her study emphasize the importance of tailored advising approaches to enhance student engagement and institutional effectiveness.
Carla’s dedication to professional growth is evident in her participation in the University of Missouri Advisor Development Program (2018) and the University of Missouri Administration Leadership Development Program (2022). These experiences have equipped her to provide exceptional leadership and support for both her team and the students she serves. Outside of her professional life, Carla enjoys traveling, jewelry making, and photography. She cherishes time with her family and values the opportunity to balance her work with creative and personal pursuits. Carla remains committed to advancing innovative educational practices and ensuring every UMSL student has the resources and support they need to thrive.
