CENTER FOR UNIVERSITY ADVISING

Dr. Jennifer Boscarino-Green began her career at Hofstra University in 1996 and has served in several areas of campus life throughout the years. She began at Hofstra as an academic advisor for first-year students exploring their majors. For the next 10 years, she continued to coordinate programming for first-year students, transfer students, and families. In 2007, she rejoined the Advising team in the Center for University Advising, where she currently serves as the Dean. She is a strong proponent of a liberal arts education and finds joy in connecting with new students at New Student Orientation and continuing to support them through graduation.

Jenn’s experiences as an undergraduate student at the University at Buffalo led her to pursue a graduate degree in higher education from Long Island University Post. Her graduate and professional work inspired her to pursue and complete her Doctorate in Educational and Policy Leadership from Hofstra University. Her doctoral research focused on the impact of student engagement for international Chinese students.

Alexa Weber has worked to engage and retain college students since her undergraduate years. Alexa is a double alumna of Stony Brook University, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in History and Business Management and Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration. Before joining the Hofstra Pride, Alexa worked in student life for 8 years, planning New Student Orientation, student leadership programming, and campus-wide community-building events. She has a wealth of experience working with first-year, commuting, and transfer students.

In addition to advising her cohort of students, Alexa serves as CUA’s Director of Communications & Operations, working on communications & outreach -so you’ll probably get a couple of emails from her! In her free time, Alexa loves going to the beach and going on hikes. Forever a theater kid, Alexa loves seeing Broadway shows and visiting the Disney Parks when she can.

Liz Babinecz-Binckes joined the Center for University Advising at Hofstra University in 2017, after her previous professional experience in Career Development Services at CUNY Hunter College and as a high school counselor. As Senior Assistant Director for Strategic Outreach and Retention Initiatives, Liz works alongside Hofstra students, helping them make the most of their college experience and assisting them in reaching their academic goals.

Liz holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Providence College and a Master of Science in Education in School Counseling from CUNY Hunter College. Liz is a Long Island native who loves going to the beach. In her free time, she enjoys going to concerts, cooking, and traveling the country on road trips.

Dr. Ellen C. Miller is a multiple alumna of Hofstra University, completing her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Master of Science in Education, Doctorate of Education, and Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration as part of the Pride. In addition to her current role in the Center for University Advising, Ellen serves as an adjunct professor teaching University 101 for first-year students. Her background in psychology and school counseling helps to inform her practice as an advisor who views the development of students holistically.

As an expert in pre-health advising, Dr. Miller authored the book “Prescription for Success: A Guide for Prehealth Students.” She believes in educating students in all aspects of the pre-health journey, from the admissions process to the wide variety of careers available in the health professions. Dr. Miller also works with returning learners, transfer and student veterans. Her interest in supporting these populations led her to write the book “Pathway to Success: A Comprehensive Guide for the Nontraditional Learner” to help those students navigate the intricacies of higher education.

Dr. Miller values her work with students and sees that as one of the greatest joys of her life. Not only does she value her relationships with students and colleagues, but she also loves the beauty of the campus in any season.

Dr. Monica Schauss has been a member of the Hofstra Pride since 2013 and has been supporting students in a variety of different settings. Prior to coming to Hofstra University, Dr. Schauss earned her degree in Biology from Keene State College. She is a proud double alumna of Hofstra University earning both her Masters Degree as well as her doctoral degree in Educational Policy and Leadership in 2023.

In 2017, Dr. Schauss joined the Center for University Advising as a Pre-Health Advisor, advising and mentoring STEM students throughout their academic journey. She feels her current role as Senior Assistant Dean for Pre-Health Advising is the perfect combination of her love for science and her passion for education. In addition to her role as Senior Assistant Dean, she is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor and teaches Anatomy and Physiology I + II within the Department of Allied Health and Kinesiology.

In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, including her daughter Olivia, her friends, cheering on the New York Giants, cooking new recipes, and DIY crafting.

A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ashley Gray has been at Hofstra University since fall 2004 and graduated with both her Bachelor of Arts in English Publishing in 2008 and Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies in 2011. As a Hofstra student, she was the Editor-in-Chief of Hofstra’s Arts and Literature Magazine, Font, and was also named College Volunteer of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. She began her professional career at Hofstra in 2011, first as the Assistant Director of Community Service and Leadership Development in Student Leadership and Engagement before transitioning to the Center for University Advising in 2014 as Assistant Dean and more recently to her current role as the Pre-Health Advisor.

In her current position, Ashley helps guide students in what classes to take and what major they may be interested in, ensures that they are aware of Hofstra policies and procedures, and answers any and all academic related questions. Additionally, as Pre-Health Advisor, she is the Chair of the Pre-Health Advisory Committee, helps to plan and oversee Pre-Health programming efforts, and guides students through the pre-health application process.

Outside of work, Ashley enjoys the simple pleasures of life: laughing, the ocean, traveling, and Orangetheory.

Alixandra Wilens is a proud Hofstra alum, having earned her Bachelor of Arts with Distinction in Psychology and History in December 2020. As a Hofstra student, she was President of the Psychology Club and volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. Alix then went on to earn a Master of Arts in Cognitive Science in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University in May 2022. During this time, Alix cultivated a passion for supporting students both as a student aide with the Center for University Advising and as a graduate assistant for the Columbia College Student Engagement office.

After graduating, Alix continued working with emerging adults in mental health research in the Yale School of Medicine and within Brown University Health, where she connected with clients and families in clinical interviews and coordinated federally funded treatment initiatives. These experiences strengthened her drive to help students succeed and navigate the complexities of an academic program. Alix is excited to be back with the Pride advising and mentoring STEM students through their undergraduate journey.

In her free time, Alix enjoys spending time with her family (including her beloved dog, Zoey) and friends, cheering on the New York Mets and playing and running social deduction games.

Deonte Whilchez joined the Hofstra Pride in the winter of 2023. Born in Louisiana but raised in New York, Deonte earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Brooklyn College. After graduating, he began working at Brooklyn College as an academic advisor in addition to working at Queens Community House, where he built strong relationships with his mentees. These experiences strengthened his passion for helping others, especially college students. Deonte’s goal is to be a helping hand for his students.

In his free time, Deonte enjoys music, sports, video games, and watching TV and movies.

Dr. Gina Sandoval holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from The University of Iowa and Master’s degree in Higher Education from Loyola University Chicago. She is a proud Hofstra alumna, having completed her doctorate in Educational and Policy Leadership. Prior to her current role, Dr. Sandoval served as Academic Advisor in the College of Business at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where in addition to advising, she managed their College Tutoring Program. Her higher education experience also includes graduate research internships at Loyola University Chicago and The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She also serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Writing Studies and Rhetoric. When not advising or teaching, Dr. Sandoval is an avid soccer (aka fútbol) fan and is a staunch Manchester City supporter.

Kelly Harvey Butler joined the Hofstra Pride in Winter 2024. Kelly earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Social Studies Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and received her Master of Arts degree in Higher Education Administration at New York University. Kelly is a native Midwesterner who began her career in higher education at New York University as the Assistant Director of Student Life, planning events like All-University Orientation and Family Weekend. She also served as an Academic Advisor and the Assistant Dean of Students/ Director of Student Development and Campus Activities at Pace University. Kelly has had a non-traditional career path, but has always worked in education, even spending time as a pre-school teacher and an elementary school teacher’s aide while her children were young. She returned to her career in higher education as an Academic Advisor for education majors at Adelphi University, before joining the Pride.

Kelly enjoys her book club, getting new stamps on her passport, rooting for her beloved Chicago Cubs, walking her dog Wrigley (she really loves the Cubs), and trying to beat her sporty husband and sons in her extended family’s annual March Madness bracket challenge.

Christine Jones joined the Hofstra community in October of 2022. Originally from Upstate New York, she received her Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Merchandising from Marist College. After graduating, Christine worked in the apparel industry in New York City for five years.

In 2018, Christine relocated to Georgia after her husband received an exciting job offer. She used the move as an opportunity to explore new careers and landed her first role in Higher Education with the Mercer University School of Engineering as an Administrative Assistant. Christine immediately realized that she enjoyed connecting with and supporting students, and pursued a career in Higher Education.

Since moving to Long Island in 2019, Christine has worked at NYIT in Career Success and most recently at Long Island University as an academic and career advisor, specializing in managing student-run businesses on campus. Her role in advising sparked her passion for guiding students and helping them to establish and pursue their goals, which she continues to do now as an Academic Advisor at Hofstra University. She is also working towards the Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies at Hofstra. In her free time, Christine enjoys reading, going to the beach, and spending time with family and friends.

Christina Cacioppo Bertsch feels grateful to be a part of the Center for University Advising team. She believes it is a privilege to work with Hofstra students each day and to guide them in their journey.

The last 15 years of her career have focused on advising students in various capacities. She previously worked as the Director of Disability Services at Fordham University and as a private college advisor assisting high school students. She is the co-author of the award-winning book Life After High School: A Guide for Students with Disabilities and Their Families which serves as a resource for students, families, and educators.

Christina grew up in Suffolk County, Long Island, where she currently resides with her husband and two daughters. She attended Boston College and earned her undergraduate degree in Human Development and master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry. She lived in California post-college and participated in a yearlong program called the Jesuit Volunteer Corp. where she was “ruined for life.” I went on to lead high school and college students on mission and immersion experiences in El Salvador, Ecuador, and Mexico.

Christina has a special interest in issues of social justice, as well as in teaching organizational and time management skills and studying the impact they have on students’ college success. She is considering applying for the doctorate in Higher Education. In her free time, she loves to play soccer, bike ride, cook, and eat!

Kimberly Sloan-Montalvo has been at Hofstra University since 2014. She is an alumna of SUNY New Paltz, having earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Upon graduation, Kim worked at a youth and community service agency on Long Island for over 11 years, developing educational, community service, counseling, and recreational programs that focused on creating positive outlets and alternatives for youth. She spent a year away from that position to serve in AmeriCorps, coordinating and training volunteer groups with Habitat For Humanity.

After earning her Master of Science in School Counseling from Long Island University, Kim worked as a middle school and high school counselor. It was here that she found her passion for assisting students in maximizing their potential, something she still enjoys here at Hofstra. Kim works alongside her students to develop their academic plan and connect them with resources to make the most of their time in college.

In her free time, Kim enjoys crafting and seeing live music. She enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. But more than anything, she loves any quality time with her family. She has two children with her partner who are her everything.

Isabella Andrade joined the Pride in 2022. She graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Adelphi University and will graduate with her Master’s in Higher Education Leadership & Policy Studies from Hofstra in 2026. It was during her time at Adelphi that she found her passion for higher education by working in student life and engagement, where she helped facilitate programs to encourage campus involvement. She also served as an Orientation Coordinator, helping to plan New Student Orientation and working closely with first-year students and their families. At Hofstra, she enjoys working with her cohort of students from the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication and other liberal arts majors and is also the co-advisor for Hofstra’s chapter of Phi Eta Sigma, an academic honor society that hosts several events! In her spare time, Isabella enjoys traveling, taking long walks with her dogs, and re-watching her favorite shows.

Lauren Ayala joined the Hofstra Pride in 2024. She graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and a minor in Special Education from California State University, Chico. She is currently working on obtaining her MSEd in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies here at Hofstra. During her time at Chico State, she served as a resident advisor, was involved in a student ministry on campus, and studied abroad in Bilbao, Spain.

Upon graduating, she interned in Puerto Rico with the same student ministry she was involved in as an undergrad, and eventually joined their professional staff in Miami, Florida. Her experiences have fostered a passion for creating spaces for people to feel seen and heard. Lauren truly believes that college is a special time where students have the opportunity to learn about themselves and make important decisions about their future. She is very excited to encourage and guide students on their academic journey. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys exploring thrift stores, coffee, and boba shops. She is a huge fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, has gained a love for Hockey (CA and NY teams specifically) and loves spending quality time with her niece, or video calling family back in California.