Ellen Sunshine

About me

Hello students! I am really excited to be in CEHD working with students in all of our majors, along with students who are undecided or exploring majors in other colleges. Before I came to CEHD, I worked in the Martin Luther King Jr office in the College of Liberal Arts for almost 11 years.

My favorite part of the job is getting to know my students, their interests, and strengths. I feel that every part of a student’s life can affect their academics and choices, and I hope to know my students well enough to support them through whatever their lives may throw at them. Together, we can build a path forward towards graduation! I believe strongly in students becoming informed and curious citizens and strongly support study abroad, olunteering, and many other on and off campus opportunities as it fits with their student and personal lives.

My own path began at the University of Iowa where I received my BA in Communication Studies with a minor in Psychology. When I graduated, I really didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life (I should have used Career Services!), but after an ‘a-ha’ moment months later, I went on to get my master's degree in Student Development in Post Secondary Education, also from the University of Iowa.

In my free time, I love watching soccer, spending time with my family, and drinking tea. My husband hails from Scotland, so we always have plenty of tea on hand! I have a 6 year old son who is the love of my life.

We are committed to providing a comfortable, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of our communities. If there is information you feel would be helpful for us to know, including disability or other accommodation needs, I invite you to share it with me directly or let the front desk know when you schedule an appointment.