Dr. Wells brings a wealth of leadership and experience to the Office of the Registrar and Institutional Analysis at Grand Valley State University. Dr. Wells earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education from the University of Kentucky, her Master’s Degree in Mathematics from Purdue University, and her Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

 Dr. Wells joined the university in 1995, as a faculty member in the mathematics department. She earned tenure in 2001 and was promoted to full professor in 2012. In her time in the mathematics department, she contributed her expertise to orientation programs for both first-year and transfer students. Dr. Wells also served as assistant chair for the mathematics department, leading accreditation efforts for six years. She earned her cognitive coaching foundations certificate in 2017. Dr. Wells has published over 15 articles related to mathematics education as well as presenting at numerous local, regional, and national conferences, leading a variety of professional development sessions, and co-chairing a conference at GVSU. She won the Pew Teaching Excellence Award in 2017.

In 2018, Dr. Wells changed career trajectories, becoming the Associate Vice President and University Registrar. In that role she leads a team of about 40 staff and works collaboratively with faculty and staff across the university to focus on student success. To grow her leadership skills, she participated in the HERS Higher Education Leadership Program in 2019. Dr. Wells has contributed to policy changes and initiatives that positively impact student success and remove barriers. She is heavily involved in the transition to the Workday Student platform.

Dr. Wells is also an active community leader, having served as president of the Holland Chorale Board of Directors, and performing with the chorale as well as local theater groups.