Kara serves as the Assistant Dean of Students in the Dean of Students Office. She reports to the Associate Dean of Students and is responsible for critical incident response and student support, the respondent support program, and the community concerns program. Kara obtained her Ph.D. in Human Sciences - Leadership Studies from the University of Nebraska in 2024 and her M.S. in Student Affairs and Higher Education at Indiana State University in 2011.
Prior to joining U-M, Kara led advocacy and support efforts at the University of Nebraska, opening two distinct offices dedicated to supporting students who experienced critical incidents that impacted their ability to successfully navigate their academic journey. Kara has additional experience in residential education/housing, academic advising, and undergraduate recruitment.