Center for Student Success names new executive director

University Relations photo

Pictured: Lauren Cole

The John W. Schmidt (JWS) Center for Student Success is welcoming Lauren Cole as the new executive director to foster success in the minds of young students.

“I was thrilled,” Cole said. “I was really excited to step into that leadership role over the center, taking the knowledge that I have learned, and applying it.”

Though she may be new to this position, Cole is no stranger to the Center for Student Success. She previously served as the director of career services and has been in the office for over 13 years.

“I was really able to learn from the ground floor up,” Cole said. “I began later in those years in the career center to move on to various committees across the university.

“I think that helped prepare me for this new position.”

As executive director, Cole will oversee the many programs offered to students. That includes the Office of Civic Engagement, Career Services, Academic Advising, ADA Program, Learning Center, TRIO and McNair Scholars Program.

“My role is all about building and leading the team,” Cole said. “We have a lot going on in the center, and it’s important to us to grow those programs and be able to help more students.

“If anybody needs help, they can just come in, and we are happy to serve them where they are at.”

Cole is filling the shoes of former executive director Dr. Hal Fulmer. She said she is grateful for the opportunity to serve the JWS Center and hopes to follow closely in his footsteps.

“I really hope to honor him and do a good job leading the team,” Cole said. “My greatest hope is to not only serve the students well, but also to serve the team well so that they can continue to do what they do and grow their programs beyond what they've been able to do in the past.”

The JWS Center is located in Eldridge Hall and is open to everyone. It is dedicated to fostering student success by providing them with the tools they need to carry them forward.