This past December, Integrated Social Sciences said good-bye to long-time Senior Academic Counselor, Bridget Norquist. Bridget finally had the opportunity to realize her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time writer.  A talented author of science fiction, fantasy, and young adult fiction, Bridget has balanced her life as a writer with her career as a UW academic adviser for many years, beginning in the Department of English in 2006 and then joining ISS in 2016. Bridget brought to the program a deep knowledge of the University, a keen eye for program assessment, creativity in approaching sticky wickets, dedication to students in need, and tenacity in fighting for resources for students. We all miss Bridget’s humor and humanity around the office. But we also really look forward to her first published novel! (For those curious to learn more about Bridget's writing, her website is still forthcoming. In the meantime, you can check out some of her flash fiction [stories that are 1K words or fewer] online at Daily Science Fiction.com and Everyday Fiction.com.]

More good news is that we have welcomed two fantastic new advising staff members! In October, Michelle Bagshaw joined ISS as our new Assistant Director of Academic Services. Michelle began her advising career at Whatcom and Green River community colleges, then came to the UW’s School of Social Work where she served for 25 years as both an advising director and faculty member.  She is a tireless advocate for social justice, supporting higher education access for people on the margins, including BIPOC, first-generation, and low-income students. 

In January, Janna Lafferty began work as an ISS Academic Adviser.  With a background in interdisciplinary social sciences, Janna has worked for nine years in student services.  While completing graduate research working with Washington tribal communities, Janna fell in love with the Pacific Northwest and has left sunny California to make her home at the UW. 

Continuing ISS Advising staff include Academic Adviser Daniel McConnell, Admissions and Outreach Adviser Holly Arsenault, and Director of Academic Services Mel Wensel. As members of “ISS Advising 2.0,” we all look forward to welcoming and serving new generations of students proud to earn their bachelors degrees online at the UW!