Meet the Crouse Center Staff

The Crouse Center for Academic Advising primarily serves undergraduate students on the Aurora campus. Advisors work with students to help them make the transition to college life and prepare for successful futures.

If you are a current Aurora campus student looking to make an appointment, please call 630-844-6870 or request an appointment online. Email inquiries can be directed to advise@aurora.edu or your assigned advisor.

If you are an AU Online student, please reach out to auo@aurora.edu or 888-688-1147 to be connected with an AU Online advisor.

Kendra Trudo

Director of Academic Advising

Phone: 630-844-5413
Email: ktrudo@aurora.edu

Education: BS, Fitness and Health Promotion, Aurora University
MSE, University of Dayton

Personal Advising Philosophy: I just want students to feel heard and leave knowing all their options, even if I throw out way too many! My goal is to make sure they feel good about their choices and know I’m all in with them.

Favorite Part of Advising: Students keep me grounded and show me every day how amazing they are. There’s nothing better than when we click, and they feel comfortable enough to share their story with me.

Advice for New Students: Go all in, even when it’s tough. You’ll be amazed at how much you grow, and trust me, crossing that stage will be worth it.

Why AU: I’ve been right where you are – taking those classes, staying in those dorms, and finding my people here. This place gave me friendships I’ll always keep, and I want today’s students to feel that same connection.

Meaghan Beadle

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-6857
Email: mbeadle@aurora.edu
Text: 630-755-6750

Education: BA, American Studies, History, Northwestern University
MPhil, Modern European History, Cambridge University
MA, American History, University of Virginia

Majors I Advise: Actuarial Science, Data Engineering, Healthcare Administration, Health Science, Health and Wellness, Mathematics

Personal Advising Philosophy: There is no such thing as one right path in life. There is only the right path for you, and advisors are here to help you figure out what that looks like and how to be successful on that path. I believe in making space for each student's individual experiences and needs, and I am here to help students as they encounter obstacles, regardless of whether those challenges are personal or academic in nature.

Favorite Part of Advising: As an advisor, I love working with students as they explore what they are passionate about, find the right path forward for their interests and skills, and work on achieving their goals as they move through their undergraduate degree at Aurora.

Advice for New Students: 'You get out what you put in.' Like so many things in life, you have a CHOICE in college to either go through the motions and do the bare minimum or really be engaged and put in the work. To truly get the most out of your college years and to take advantage of this unique time to explore and grow, CHOOSE to totally immerse yourself. Get involved. Join clubs. Get to know your professors and advisors. Challenge yourself to take classes in diverse fields of study. Commit to always doing your best instead of just skating by. You'll be both proud of yourself and empowered by these decisions later in life.

Why AU: Aurora University is a student-centered institution that strives to provide a high-quality and affordable education to everyone, regardless of background. The staff and faculty work together to foster an environment that focuses on inclusivity and genuinely puts students first. It is inspiring to work with a community that is driven to help shape not only the future of higher education but also our society at large.

Téa Gibson

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-7879
Email: tgibson@aurora.edu
Text: 630-557-8811

Education: BA, General Studies, Western Illinois University
MS, College Student Affairs, Eastern Illinois University

Majors I Advise: Nursing (last names M-Z) and Pre-Nursing (last names M-Z)

Personal Advising Philosophy: I take a holistic approach to advising, taking time to get to know each student’s goals and aspirations so I can help guide them toward success in a way that aligns with their dreams. It’s rewarding to tailor my support to fit each student’s unique needs and help them on their academic journey.

Favorite Part of Advising: My favorite part of advising is supporting students as they navigate college life. College is not easy and takes a lot of work and being able to assist students in overcoming their barriers and reaching their full potential is very fulfilling for me.

Advice for New Students: Take full advantage of campus resources like the Academic Support Center, Counseling, and Campus Life to help you thrive both academically and personally. Embrace a growth mindset—challenges are opportunities to learn, so stay open to new experiences and push yourself to grow. You've got this!

Favorite thing about AU: One of my favorite things about working at this AU is seeing how the campus community comes together—whether it’s through campus events, collaborative opportunities, or the wealth of resources available to students. It is truly rewarding to watch students connect with each other and grow, knowing they have a strong network here at AU to help them succeed.

Katie Hardin

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-5241
Email: khardin@aurora.edu
Text: 630-748-7690

Education: BA, Public Policy, Environmental Studies, College of William & Mary
MS, Higher Education Counseling/Student Affairs, West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Majors I Advise: Biology/Secondary Education, Chemistry/Secondary Education, English/Secondary Education, Exploratory Studies, History/Secondary Education, Mathematics/Secondary Education

Personal Advising Philosophy: I believe in building a collaborative relationship with each of my advisees. I foster a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable discussing their goals, concerns, and challenges, and know that they will be heard, valued, and supported.

Favorite Part of Advising: Getting to know each student as an individual and understanding their unique story and contributions they bring to AU.

Advice for New Students: College is more than just the learning that happens inside the classroom. Utilizing on campus resources like tutoring and counseling, joining student organizations, attending campus events, and visiting professors' office hours are just some of the ways you can become connected to AU and take advantage of the full college experience.

Why AU: At AU you are truly a name and not a number! I'm proud to be part of a campus community that cares about each individual student and goes above and beyond to support their success.

Annie Hodal

Lead Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-5472
Email: ahodal@aurora.edu
Text: 630-557-8582

Education: BA, Communication Studies, Northern Illinois University
MA, Communication, Rhetoric and Public Communication, Northern Illinois University

Majors I Advise: Business Administration (last names A-L), Communication, Graphic Design, Marketing (last names A-L)

Personal Advising Philosophy: I believe in the power of community, learning, and resources. I encourage students to join community events, get excited about learning, and engage with helpful resources.

Favorite Part of Advising: I love hearing about dreams and goals and finding ways to help students achieve them.

Advice for New Students: Starting something new can be overwhelming and difficult, but it can also bring so much joy. A little bit of courage goes a long way!

Why AU: AU is a welcoming campus filled with so many wonderful people who are passionate about finding new and more comprehensive ways to support student success.

Michelle Hoehn

Lead Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-5220
Email: mhoehn@aurora.edu
Text: 630-494-8581

Education: BA, German Education, Bradley University
MA, Organizational Leadership, Lewis University

Majors I Advise: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Human-Animal Studies

Personal Advising Philosophy: There is no "one size fits all" in advising. By taking the time to understand each student's background, strengths, and goals, I can guide them in making informed decisions about their academic and professional paths.

Favorite Part of Advising: It is so rewarding to see students achieve their goals, especially when I know they have worked hard and overcome challenges to get there.

Advice for New Students: Get involved on campus through clubs and events. Building connections on campus, both inside and outside of class, is an important part of student success!

Favorite thing about AU: It's great to be part of such a supportive and inclusive community!

Rachael Judson

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-5226
Email: rjudson@aurora.edu
Text: 331-343-5959

Education: BS, Parks and Recreation Administration, Illinois State University
MS, Higher Education, Walden University

Majors I Advise: Behavioral Neuroscience, Criminal Justice , Psychology (last names A-L)

Personal Advising Philosophy: I focus on partnering with students as they navigate all the different aspects of high education by helping make sure that each student feels supported as they explore their academic and career aspirations.

Favorite Part of Advising: I love helping students figure out their next step; whether that is the classes they want to take, the career they want to go into or the goal they want to set for themselves for the semester.

Advice for New Students: Get to know your professors and other students in your classes - and remember that you can always stop by the advising office!

Favorite thing about AU: Students always share how they feel the sense of community at AU - I love that students feel like they belong.

Luke Kerber

Assistant Director of Academic Advising for Student Success Initiatives

Phone: 630-844-5619
Email: lkerber@aurora.edu
Text: 630-557-8988

Education: BA, History, North Central College
MBA, Aurora University

Majors I Advise: Social Work

Personal Advising Philosophy: My advising philosophy is centered on fostering a supportive, student-centered approach that encourages self-advocacy and personal growth. I aim to guide students in making informed academic and career decisions, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive both during college and in their future endeavors.

Favorite Part of Advising: Celebrating the "aha!" moments, when students realize their potential and start to feel excited about their future – it's like being part of their lightbulb moment!

Advice for New Students: Remember that life is a journey with many paths and fork-in-the-road moments—it's okay to change your mind and take detours along the way. Explore, take risks, and have fun with the process, knowing that every experience helps shape your future, even if it doesn’t follow a straight line!

Favorite thing about AU: The people! Everyone wants you to succeed. We foster collaboration and communication.

Morgan Lamberton

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-4912
Email: mlamberton@aurora.edu
Text: 331-316-7712

Education: BSW, Ball State University
MA, Student Affairs Administration, Ball State University

Majors I Advise: Accounting, Finance, and Marketing (last names M-Z)

Favorite Part of Advising: I love watching students discover new things about themselves and in turn make a difference in the world.

Advice for New Students: Don't be afraid to get involved and build community!

Why AU: I chose AU because of our authentic commitment to student success and wellness. I'm so excited to be a part of a team that makes a lasting impact in the lives of students!

Kerby Mickelson

Assistant Director of Academic Advising for Administrative Services

Phone: 630-844-5139
Email: kmickelson@aurora.edu
Text: 630-748-7247

Education: BA, Elementary Education, Aurora University
MLD, Higher Education Leadership, North Central College

Majors I Advise: Exercise Science, Exercise Science/Pre-Athletic Training, Parks and Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation

Personal Advising Philosophy: I like to work backwards from your career goal to ensure that you are getting the academic plan you need to be most successful after AU.

Favorite Part of Advising: I really like putting the academic puzzle together with my students, it gives me joy when I get to work closely with students on a regular basis to make AU work best for them. I always tell students to come see me often, that’s why I am here!

Advice for New Students: My advice would be to do everything at least once! Join the clubs, go to the campus and sporting events, eat on campus, embrace the college experience while you can, there are so many cool things you can do during this time of your life– don't miss out on it!

Why AU: I’m proud to be an AU alum! When I was visiting campuses, AU stood out instantly—there was a feeling of warmth and community that made it feel like home. That sense of belonging has only grown over the years, and it’s part of why I came back as an employee. I still get that feeling when I walk around campus, especially on a sunny day in the quad, my favorite spot on campus.

Haley Pessina-Butler

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-5298
Email: hpessina@aurora.edu
Text: 630-895-8829

Education: BA, Criminal Justice, Aurora University
MS, Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University

Majors I Advise: I'm still learning!

Personal Advising Philosophy: I believe in teaching students the skills and providing them with the tools necessary to navigate this particular part of their life’s journey. The goal is not for students to just figure everything out for themselves, but rather learn what they are capable of handling and learn when they need to ask for help.

Favorite Part of Advising: My favorite part of advising is seeing students get excited about things they are learning about or doing in their classes, or within other areas on campus. When students are excited about their education, they are much more likely to be successful.

Advice for New Students: Get involved on campus. There is so much learning that goes on outside of the classroom that is just as beneficial to you as what you learn inside the classroom.

Favorite thing about AU: My favorite thing about AU is its commitment to life-long learning. Faculty, staff, students, and even community members are encouraged and provided with opportunities to continue to grow and learn each and every day.

Will Schuneman

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-5143
Email: wschuneman@aurora.edu
Text: 630-423-3635

Education: BA, Interdisciplinary Studies of Business and Philosophy, Dominican University
MBA, Aurora University

Majors I Advise: English, Environmental Studies, History, Spanish, Sport Management, Political Science and Public Policy, Psychology (last names M-Z)

Personal Advising Philosophy: My advising philosophy is focused on mentorship and building strong relationships with students. I believe that advising is not just about helping students select courses or navigate their academic journey—it’s about guiding them in their personal and professional development.

Favorite Part of Advising: My favorite part of advising is seeing students grow and succeed. Whether it's helping a student through a tough semester or celebrating their accomplishments when they graduate, the opportunity to be part of their journey is deeply fulfilling.

Advice for New Students: Embrace the journey and be open to new experiences. College is a time of exploration, both academically and personally, so don’t be afraid to try new things. It’s also important to seek help when you need it. Whether it’s academic support, career guidance, or emotional well-being, you don’t have to navigate everything alone.

Favorite thing about AU: AU stands out because of its commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive, and community-oriented environment for students. It’s a place where students are not just a number, but individuals with unique potential and aspirations.

Alissa Struck

Assistant Director of Academic Advising for Operations and Training

Phone: 630-844-5146
Email: astruck@aurora.edu
Text: 630-748-8996

Education: BA, Human Resource Management, Lewis University
BS, Business Administration, Lewis University
MBA, Lewis University

Majors I Advise: Business Administration (last names M-Z), Music, Sociology, Theatre

Personal Advising Philosophy: Advising is a two-sided conversation. It's collaborative and about working together to determine the best solution and best path for each individual.

Favorite Part of Advising: Watching my students grow and thrive during their time at AU. Seeing them transform from being anxious and apprehensive, to seeing the joy and accomplishment they feel as they walk across the stage at commencement as a college graduate.

Advice for New Students: It's okay to be nervous! It means you care - about your education and your future.

Favorite thing about AU: The sense of community. There is always a helping hand willing to assist you and see you succeed - don't be afraid to ask!

Chiara Tornabene

Academic Advisor

Phone: 630-844-5240
Email: ctornabene@aurora.edu
Text: 630-454-1427

Education: BS, Geology, Classical Civilizations, University of Mary Washington
MS, Geological Sciences, University of Texas at Austin

Majors I Advise: Nursing (last names A-L) and Pre-Nursing (last names A-L)

Personal Advising Philosophy: I believe in empowering students to take ownership of their educational journey by providing the tools, resources, and support they need to make informed decisions and find their passion.

Favorite Part of Advising: My favorite part about advising is helping students explore new academic interests and career paths and helping them realize the vast opportunities available to them.

Advice for New Students: Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help when you need it. Whether it’s from professors, advisors, or peers, there’s always support available if you know where to look.

Favorite thing about AU: My favorite thing about Aurora University is the diversity of the student body. It’s a welcoming and inclusive campus where students from all walks of life come together to learn and grow.