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Students

Meet the Student Academic Services team

Portrait of Shanai

Shanai ("Shuh-NAY") Lechtenberg   she/her pronouns
Senior Director, Student Academic Services

lechts@uw.edu
360 Loew

portrait of Dana

Dana ("DAY-nuh") Pierson  she/her pronouns
Office Support Supervisor

danap2@uw.edu
(206) 543-177
014 Loew

Advising and student engagement

portrait of Dana

Lauren ("LOR-en") Fryhle   
she/her pronouns
Associate Director of Advising & Student Engagement

lfryhle@uw.edu
014 Loew

I began my first year in undergrad as a Husky both excited and a little overwhelmed by the seemingly endless options that exist at a school of this size! I had to work up some courage to put myself out there, but once I did I found really amazing individuals and communities who helped shape my time at UW and to this day still give me support. The experiences I had teaching and mentoring here as well as abroad helped me discover that I find energy in helping empower others to reach their goals. I really love connecting with people and learning from others' life stories.

My goal is to be a sounding board and source of support for students as they navigate their own educational journeys. I recognize that academics are just one piece of the larger, often complex college experience, and strive to really get to know my advisees well so that I can be the best possible partner and advocate for them. I value the different perspectives each student brings that are shaped by their unique experiences and identities.

I enjoy spending my free time exploring new places with friends and family, whether it be the streets and culture of a neighborhood or foreign country, or a trail in the mountains. I also love to dance, see live music, and binge on berries! To my advisees: I can’t wait to meet you!

portrait of Dana

Allie ("AL-ee") Carpenter   she/her pronouns
Lead Academic Adviser

206-685-3714
alliecar@uw.edu
014 Loew

I was born and raised in Ohio and completed my undergraduate degree from Ohio University with a double major in Mathematics and Sociology. Initially, I was intent on becoming a teacher, but after my first teaching course I realized it wasn’t for me. I knew I wanted to finish my mathematics degree but fell in love with sociology and studying how humans interact, make meaning, and engage with one another. This ultimately led me to pursue my Masters in Higher Education from the University of Denver and a passion for academic advising.

I remember being a Junior at Ohio University and feeling uncertain about my future and what I would do after leaving Athens, Ohio. However, the curriculum and degrees I completed gave me critical and analytical thinking skills along with the jobs, mentors, goals, and experiences to be successful. My experiences at Ohio U guided me towards my passion for advising students and I have never looked back! I am excited to help you explore your interests, goals, and values as you navigate your experience here at the University of Washington! Go Huskies!

Jacob Schleusner's headshot

Jacob ("JAY-KUHB") Schleusner he/him pronouns
Senior Academic Adviser

jschleus@uw.edu
014 Loew

I grew up in small town in rural Wisconsin and attended the University of Wisconsin - Madison for both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees. One of the things that I valued most about attending a large research institution was all of the amazing opportunities available not just in the classroom, but also within the larger campus community. I spent a year studying abroad in Denmark, spent time participating in student organizations, and worked a variety of on-campus jobs which all impacted my decision to pursue a career in higher education.

Working with students to make a large institution like the University of Washington more accessible and easier to navigate is something I am very passionate about. I enjoy learning more about students' interests and goals including what they hope to gain from their college experience. As an adviser, I am excited to meet with ENGRUDs and look forward to exploring new opportunities at the University of Washington together!

portrait of Dana

Katie ("Kay-tee") Schroder  she/her pronouns
Academic Adviser

schrok3@uw.edu
014 Loew

I came to UW as a freshman through athletics, and my experience was full of unexpected twists and turns. My college experience consisted of new friendships, weekend adventures, RSO leadership, internships, office hours, multiple degree audits, and many academic advising appointments. As I explored and honed in on my interests, I landed on a major from the School of Public Health with minors in Human Rights and Law, Societies, and Justice. My transformational time at UW is largely why I became an Academic Adviser!

In my years of supporting college students, I have found that the best thing I can do is champion you in your passions, strengths, and decision-making skills. I want to support you as you navigate your life in college that is preparing you for your life beyond college.

Outside my work, I have many hobbies! I love to swim, bike, surf, cook, travel, read, attend Seattle community events, and watch the Seattle Aquarium’s live otter cam on YouTube (a study break recommendation)! ENGRUDs, I look forward to meeting you!

portrait of Dana

Lee Liao (“L-ee”)   he/him pronouns
Academic Adviser

lliao8@uw.edu
014 Loew

Hello my advisees! Lovely to meet you all. I am from a small town called Silverdale in Washington, and I went to Western Washington University for my undergraduate and received my master’s in education from Saint Martin’s University. Throughout my college time, I have always enjoyed working with my professors, advisers, classmates, student clubs, and campus communities. After college, I pursued an oversea internship opportunity in Wellington, New Zealand, where I worked in the education field in promoting more cultural and interactive events with youth and adolescents. These fantabulous experiences made me realize my passion and interest in working with students and hearing their stories while helping them achieve their academic and professional goals. As an adviser, I want to be a good resource and support to help students navigate through this complex college journey.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, playing the piano, hiking, live music, watching movies, food adventuring, and cruising my motorcycle around the PNW! If you have any recommendation for movies and food, please feel free to share away. I look forward to working and meeting with you all!

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Kylie (“Kie-lee”) Neal   she/her pronouns
Peer Adviser

Major: Electrical and Computer Engineering
Areas of impact: Air & Space, Computing, Data, & Digital Technologies
Club/activity experience: SARP (Society for Advanced Rocket Propulsion), Emerging Leaders in Engineering (Engineering Peer Educator), Vision 16 Living Community, Waterfront Activities Center (on-campus job)

I decided to become a peer advisor after serving as an Engineering Peer Educator in my second year at UW. I really enjoyed getting to know my students and helping them along their journey as they transitioned from high school to the College of Engineering. This huge transition can be overwhelming, and I found it so helpful to reach out to students further along on their journey at UW, and I look forward to giving back to the community by being a peer advisor. I am excited to equip and encourage the next class of aspiring engineers by helping with anything from connecting you all with campus resources, drafting a course schedule, sharing opportunities to further explore your academic and personal interests, and so much more!

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Nicole (“Nih-kohl”) Setiawan   she/her, they/them pronouns
Peer Adviser

Major: Mechanical Engineering
Areas of impact: Air & Space, Health & Medicine, Robotics & Manufacturing
Club/activity experience: UW Human Powered Submarine, Engineering Ambassadors, Engineering Design Coaches, Undergraduate Research, UW Robinson Center for Young Scholars, UW Steelband, HuskyADAPT (past)

I’ve gotten a lot of help in navigating my engineering journey from friends and peers. In my time here, I’ve gained valuable experience, and I hope to help peers who are in the same position I have been in in the past. It can also help to have someone to talk to when making important decisions and navigating class requirements, and I love being able to support people and brainstorm ways to make the most of your engineering experience!

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Yoshi (“Yo-she”) Nakanishi   he/him pronouns
Peer Adviser

Major: Mechanical Engineering
Areas of impact: Air & Space, Robotics & Manufacturing
Club/activity experience: Husky Satellite Lab, American Indian Sciences and Engineering Society (AISES) First Nations Launch Competition, ALVA Boeing Intern, Husky Marching Band

I chose to become a peer advisor because I believe in the power of sharing experiences. Going through the ENGRUD process myself, I understand the challenges new students face. Whether it's navigating through the different engineering majors or trying to find your place at a new place like the UW, the first year is filled with uncertainties. I am eager to lend a helping hand during this pivotal transition period and support incoming students in finding their footing.

Engineering Academic Center

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Sheldon  (“SHEL-dun”) Levias   he/him pronouns
Associate Director, Engineering Academic Center (EAC)

srl1@uw.edu
301T Loew

Grew up and lived in Seattle all of my life. In a way, I started off as a Husky because I was born at the UW Medical Center. Eventually, I made my way back to the UW as a student, graduating with a BS in Electrical Engineering, and then, many years later, graduating with a Ph.D. in Learning Sciences. Although it may not be obvious, there is a connection in my academic journey. I began tutoring math and physics as a UW undergrad, and found that my greatest joy came with helping others grasp challenging concepts.

In my spare time, I enjoy family walks around the neighborhood; reading/learning about philosophy, science, history and politics; weekend getaways with family and friends; and corny dad jokes (I can just see my sons shaking their heads at me…).

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Lynne ("Lin") Spencer  she/her pronouns
Lead Engineering Educational Specialist, Engineering Academic Center (EAC)

lspencer@uw.edu
301M Loew

Originally from Detroit, Michigan, I grew up the youngest of three children in a blue-collar family and am a first-generation college graduate. I finished my BS at the University of Toledo and my Ph.D. at the University of Rhode Island, both in Chemistry. It’s a wonder I finished either as I changed schools and my major several times while working my way through. Along the way I developed a passion for helping others achieve their academic goals as I studied with friends and tutored peers. I feel joyful to be able to work with others as they develop their own unique career path.

When I’m not around the EAC, I enjoy biking, gardening, fishing, crafting, good books, good food, and my family.

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Peter ("PEE-ter") Brodkin  he/him pronouns
Engineering Educational Specialist, Engineering Academic Center (EAC)

pbrodkin@uw.edu
301L Loew

I’m originally from New London, Connecticut which was burned to the ground in 1781 by Benedict Arnold, but lucky for me they rebuilt it. I taught high school and coached basketball for a number of years in New Mexico and the Seattle area, and then decided it’d be a good idea to go get my Master’s in Aerospace Engineering from UW in my 40s. While I worked on some fascinating projects at UW and originally planned to design landing guidance systems for spacecraft, I ultimately went back to my true passion of teaching. I’m one of the lucky few who can say he truly loves his job.

Outside of UW, I enjoy all of the usual activities listed in biographies, trying to maintain superiority over my kids at sports and games, and fruitlessly rooting for the Miami Dolphins football team.

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Sehrish ("Ser-ish") Daud  she/her pronouns
Academic Success Coach, Engineering Academic Center (EAC)

Recruitment and outreach

portrait of Dana

Eli ("EE-lie") Williams  he/him pronouns
Recruitment and Youth Engagement Program Manager

(206) 616-3280
eliwill@uw.edu
340 Loew

I grew up in a small beach town in California, and completed both my BA in English and MA in Education at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. In my first year of college, I struggled with imposter syndrome: a feeling that I wasn't as cool, smart, or capable as everyone around me. But getting involved on campus helped me build self-confidence and a community of support. I attribute a lot of my success as a student to the peer leaders and mentors I had the privilege of befriending. Now, I've dedicated my career to creating those transformative relationships for others. I'm deeply passionate about developing emerging leaders, and empowering success for each new generation of students.

When I'm not at work, I love reading good books, seeing live comedy and theater, and exploring all the culture, coffee, and good food Seattle has to offer!

Emerging leaders in engineering

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Taylor ("TAY-lur") Holliday  she/her pronouns
Program Specialist

I was born in Vancouver, Canada but raised here in Seattle. I completed my undergraduate at UW where I double majored in Communication and Sociology. My time as a student at UW was filled with wonderful classes, travel adventures, and long-lasting friendships. I love that my career has brought me back to the beautiful UW campus!

In my free time, I love reading, playing tennis, going to concerts, and boating with my family. Plus I'm usually up to date on all the latest pop culture news!