Graduate Admission Staff
Center for Graduate Studies
Institute for Collaboration, Office 122
Phone: 630-947-8955
Fax: 630-844-6854
Email: AUadmission@aurora.edu
Donna Liljegren, EdD
Dean of Online and Graduate Studies
Phone: 630-947-8914
Email: dliljegren@aurora.edu
Lindsey Hanson
Graduate Admission Counselor
Phone: 630-947-8907
Email: lhanson@aurora.edu
Programs:
Master of Business Administration Plus One Program
Master of Science in Criminal Justice Plus One Program
Educational background: BA in Communication, Aurora University, Aurora, IL; MBA, DeVry University's Keller Graduate School of Management, Naperville, IL
How long have you been at AU: Since January 2022
What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Your graduate education is a chance to hone your skills in a particular area. Take this opportunity to choose a program that you are passionate about, one that excites you to dive in and learn more.
Words to describe AU: A welcoming community that provides an abundance of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Valerie Jackson
Graduate Admission Counselor
Phone: 630-947-8938
Email: vjackson@aurora.edu
Programs:
Graduate Social Work Programs
Educational background: BA in Communication, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL
How long have you been at AU: Since November 2018
What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Visit—whether it be virtually or in-person—and ask questions in the process! Campus visits are the best way to get a feel for the programs you are considering. Once you are an AU student, be sure to get to know your instructors!
Words to describe AU: A tight-knit, flexible, and student-centered community.
Caryn Jakielski
Graduate Admission Counselor
Phone: 630-947-8903
Email: cjakielski@aurora.edu
Programs:
Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction: Teaching Diverse Learners
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Master of Arts in Educational Technology
Master of Arts in Reading Instruction
Graduate Education Endorsements
Educational background: BS in Recreation Administration and Management, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL; MS in Continuing Education and Training Management and MBA, University of St. Francis, Joliet, IL
How long have you been at AU: Since June 2017
What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Don't wait. Start now. There will never be a perfect time to start, so don't put it off.
Words to describe AU: Diverse, inclusive, and a gem in the suburbs.
Bridget LeMaire
Graduate Admission Counselor
Phone: 630-947-8942
Email: blemaire@aurora.edu
Programs:
Master of Arts in Teaching Plus One Program
Master of Science in Athletic Training
Master of Science in Exercise Science Plus One Program
Master of Science in Nursing Entry to Practice
Educational background: BA in Public Relations and Marketing Communications, St. Ambrose University, Davenport, IA; MS in Higher Education Administration degree in progress, Southern New Hampshire University, Hooksett, NH
How long have you been at AU: Since November 2020
What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Don't keep putting off your degree! The longer you wait to start, the bigger the chance you take at never starting it.
Words to describe AU: Inclusive. Between the autism-friendly residence hall for undergraduate students and the diverse group of students coming from all walks of life, you will find a place and group of friends to fit in.
Cody Mars
Enrollment Operations Manager
Phone: 630-947-8901
Email: cmars@aurora.edu
Programs:
Center for Graduate Studies and AU Online
Educational background: Coursework at Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove, IL; BA in Psychology with minors in Anthropology and Sociology, and a certificate in Multicultural Studies, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO; MSW and MBA degrees in progress, Aurora University, Aurora, IL
How long have you been at AU: Since March 2021
What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Schedule time for self-care and remain patient with yourself as you progress through your graduate program.
Words to describe AU: Committed to student success and development.