Patty Witkowsky

Dr. Patty Witkowsky is an esteemed Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator for the Student Affairs in Higher Education program at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). With a robust academic background, she earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership, complemented by a minor in Applied Statistics and Research Methods from the University of Northern Colorado. Her academic journey and professional experiences have significantly shaped her approach to teaching and research. Before transitioning to academia, Dr. Witkowsky accumulated 12 years of valuable experience in administrative roles within higher education. Her roles spanned across various domains, including new student orientation, student activities, and academic advising. This extensive experience has provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within student affairs, enriching her teaching and research endeavors. Dr. Witkowsky's research interests are deeply rooted in the experiences of graduate students within student affairs graduate preparation programs. She is particularly passionate about exploring student transitions and the professional journeys of student affairs professionals. Her work aims to enhance the understanding of these experiences, contributing to the development of more effective support systems within higher education. In addition to her academic and research commitments, Dr. Witkowsky is actively involved in professional organizations such as ACPA: College Student Educators International and NASPA: Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. Her engagement with these organizations reflects her commitment to advancing the field of student affairs and fostering professional development among her peers. At UCCS, Dr. Witkowsky plays a pivotal role on the Student Success Assessment Team and serves as a faculty affiliate for the Global Intercultural Research Center (GLINT). Her involvement in these initiatives underscores her dedication to promoting student success and intercultural understanding within the academic community. Dr. Witkowsky's contributions to the field of student affairs are marked by her commitment to research, teaching, and professional service. Her work continues to impact the lives of students and professionals, driving positive change within higher education.