Kristin Williams

Director, Office of Student Services
Bachelor of Applied Arts from Central Michigan University (1992), Master of Arts in Counseling from CMU (1999)
Started at KCON in 2012

Advises: RN to BSN, Traditional BSN, Second-Degree BSNs

About Me: I am so blessed at work and at home! I have three amazing adult daughters – two of whom are Lakers! –  they make me smile every day! My husband I love to travel, go to concerts and football games and hang out at our cabin in the U.P. You can usually find us hanging out with friends and spoiling our two Golden Retrievers, Winston and Duncan, rotten!

My Student Approach: My favorite part of my job is working directly with students! I have worked in higher education over 30 years and have seen many changes during this time, but one thing that has remained the same is the need for students to have strong support systems. I value the opportunity to make personal connections with students and provide resources, counsel, encouragement and information that encourages their success.  College is such a formative time – my advices is DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP! It’s our privilege to join you on this on journey and help you reach your goals!

Mike Stoll

Assistant Director
Bachelor of Science in Political Science from GVSU (2010), Master of Education from GVSU (2012)
Started at KCON in 2015, became Assistant Director in 2024

Advises: Traditional BSN, Second-Degree BSN, and Graduate Programs

About Me: My wife (a proud GVSU KCON graduate) and I met as GVSU students when we were Resident Assistants in the North C, Hills, and Frey Community! As a student, I was also on the Rowing Team and member of the Student Senate. I love to golf, run, and I’m a big Detroit Lions fan.

My Student Approach: I was inspired to work in higher education by my Dad, Bob Stoll, who worked at GVSU from 1983-2020. Grand Valley is a major part of my family story and I am honored to be able to work here and give back to a place that has given me so much! My approach to working with students is to provide individualized support based on their needs. I desire for each student to feel a sense of belonging to GVSU and to be able to accomplish their personal and professional goals.

Cassonya Carter

Senior Community Impact & Holistic Student Support Specialist
Associate of Arts in Communications from GRCC (1987), Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations/Advertising from GVSU (1991), Master of Education in Secondary, Adult and Higher Education (1997), Intercultural Training Certification from GVSU (2014)
Started at KCON in 2005, serving as one of the founding members of the Office of Student Services

Advises: Traditional BSN, Second-Degree BSN

About Me: A passionate educator with 32+ years of experience, I love shopping/shoes, singing, and spending time with friends and family. I’ve performed in plays, musicals, and gospel recordings, including singing the National Anthem for the Detroit Pistons. Founder of The Voices of GVSU, I’m affectionately known as “Mama CC” and cherish mentoring students and giving back to the community.

My Student Support Approach: My greatest joy has always been helping students of all ages discover their strength, embrace their potential, and step into their greatness. Working in higher education, for me, is a calling—one that allows me to be a steady presence, a source of encouragement, and a light along their path. Inspired by the wisdom of Marva Collins, I believe that “students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” My approach centers on meeting students where they are. I believe they are already great when I meet them—I’m simply there to help them see it, believe it, and grow into it. I want to be remembered for the way I made students feel seen, valued, believed in, and know: The challenge in front of you is never stronger than the power behind you.

Emily Skoog

Academic Advisor
Bachelor of Science in Clinical Exercise Science from GVSU (2019), Master of Education from GVSU (2022)
Started at KCON in 2023

Advises: Traditional BSN, Second-Degree BSN

About Me: Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter, and our two dogs. I’m always up for trying new restaurants and coffee shops—recommendations welcome! I enjoy traveling but also love exploring beach towns that Michigan has to offer.

My Student Support Approach: My goal as an academic advisor is to meet students where they are and provide the support they need to reach their academic and personal goals. As a first-generation college student myself, I was inspired to work in higher education to help others navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with the college experience. One piece of advice I always share is to get involved on campus—whether it’s joining a club, attending events, or exploring student organizations. Engaging with your campus community helps you build connections, gain confidence, and make the most of your college journey.

Holly Lorenz

Academic Advisor
Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Psychology from Central Michigan University, Master of Education from GVSU (2019)
I have worked with pre-health students at GVSU from 2021-2024 and started at KCON in 2024

Advises: Traditional BSN, Second-Degree BSN

About Me: Outside of the office, I love to unwind by reading a book or a playing a competitive board game with my spouse and our friends. I believe in life-long learning and often try out new recipes with food from my garden or find new ways to challenge myself with improv comedy and playing in local wind ensembles. My partner and I spend many weekends traveling Michigan in our vintage camper with our two dogs and have a special love for the Upper Peninsula where my family lives.

My Student Support Approach: As your advisor, my goal is to provide you with the resources and guidance you need to confidently make decisions about your GVSU experience. I see my role as a partner in your GVSU journey to help you identify your purpose, create pathways to achieve your goals, and problem-solve any barriers along the way. I'm here to be your advocate, ensuring you have a supportive and welcoming space to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

Mackenzie Ware

Student Engagement and Academic Resourcing Specialist
Bachelor of Science in Psychology from GVSU (2015), Master of Education from GVSU (2019)
Started at KCON in 2019

Supports: Traditional BSN, Second-Degree BSN, and Graduate Programs

About Me: I am happiest outdoors, especially near the water. I love filling my days with art, whether I’m creating it or simply appreciating it. My family is my absolute world, and yes, that includes my dog! If I don't have weekend plans, I’m probably getting a new tattoo.

My Student Support Approach: My approach to supporting students is rooted in individuality, communication, and growth. I believe in meeting students where they are, both supporting and challenging them to stretch beyond their comfort zones. I view education as an adventure of exploration and creativity. My goal is for students to leave college feeling empowered, equipped with tools and confidence to face challenges, and inspired to become their best selves. This time in college is yours! It is an opportunity to center yourself, discover what you want from this journey, and use every resource to make the most of it.

Denise Gross

Student Services Assistant
Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies from GVSU (2019), Minor in Hospitality from GVSU (2025)
Started at KCON in 2012

About me:  When I’m not at work I like to read, hang out with my family, friends and plan memorable events for people. If you have a theme, I have an idea!

My Student Support Approach: I have years of customer service and if you have a problem I’d love to help you solve it. I have worked in many fields, hospitals, college athletics, John Deere, and I will say that higher education has been the most rewarding. Helping a student from their first steps of thinking about nursing to watching them cross the stage at graduation and all of the “things” in between is very satisfying. I have grown as a person and professional being at GVSU, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Anchor Up!