Shannon Cron, St. Olaf College

Shannon Cron (she/her) is an Associate Dean of Admissions at St. Olaf College. Alongside working with prospective students and families, her primary responsibilities include facilitating ongoing training and professional development for enrollment staff, developing information session content for the campus visit program, and liaising with Twin Cities college access organizations. She's passionate about the individual and collective power of education and strives to center creativity, equity, and empathy in her work. Prior to joining the St. Olaf Admissions Office, she worked as a High School Coach at College Possible, a theater director and educator, and a freelance writer and editor. This spring, she completed her masters' degree in organizational leadership, policy, and development at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, where her research focused on what trauma-informed admissions practices do (or could) entail.

Emily Owens, Venture Academy

Emily Owens (she/they) serves as the Director of Career & College Counseling at Venture Academy, a Title 1 eligible public charter in Minneapolis. Working in higher education and college access for over 14 years, Emily brings a unique blend of experience having worked on both sides of the desk (and in between). She leverages cutting edge technologies (like AI) to enhance counseling supports in her pursuit of ensuring that students from all backgrounds receive equitable and inclusive counseling. Her commitment to student opportunities extends beyond the counseling office, as she actively participates in state-level initiatives, serving on MnACC, MACAC, and the advisory board for MN Direct Admissions through the Office of Higher Education. Emily is passionate about empowering students and breaking down barriers in post-secondary systems.

Katie Hodgden, IllumINNATE Coaching

With over a decade of experience in career advising and educational leadership in higher education, Katie has honed her skills in engaging staff and fostering growth in diverse academic settings. Currently serving as Assistant Director in the Career Development Center at Minnesota State University, Mankato, where she focuses on building a Strengths based team of Career Advisors. Katie found a love in exploring the world of Strengths in 2019 and recently became certified in 2024. Katie also leverages this expertise to oversee a dynamic Children’s Ministry, empowering volunteers to create a nurturing environment for young learners. Katie holds a masters in Counseling and Student Personnel from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southwest Minnesota State University.

Mandy Weister, IllumINNATE Coaching

Mandy Weister is a seasoned higher education professional with over 15 years of experience, currently serving as the Director of Career Services in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Prior to her current role she worked in Residential Life and Career Services at Minnesota State University, Mankato in various roles. Mandy has been leveraging her Strengths since 2008 and became a certified Strengths Coach in 2019, passionately pursing how positive psychology and the Strengths approach can illuminate new understanding and excellence in both individual and team settings. She holds a Master of Science in Counseling and Student Personnel from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Philosophy from Luther College.