Graduate and Online Admission Staff

Jennifer Everhart

Assistant Vice President for Online Enrollment

Phone: 630-947-8921
Email: jeverhart@aurora.edu

Educational background: BA in General Studies, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL; MBA, Aurora University, Aurora, IL

How long have you been at AU: Since January 2014

What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Ask lots of questions! We are here to help you achieve your educational goals!

Words to describe AU: AU is a university that focuses on the needs of our students and helping them gain education and experience to prepare them for life after graduation!

Lindsey Hanson

Graduate Enrollment Manager

Phone: 630-947-8907
Email: lhanson@aurora.edu

Educational background: BA in Communication, Aurora University, Aurora, IL; MBA, DeVry University's Keller Graduate School of Management, Naperville, IL

How long have you been at AU: Since January 2022

What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Your graduate education is a chance to hone your skills in a particular area. Take this opportunity to choose a program that you are passionate about, one that excites you to dive in and learn more.

Words to describe AU: A welcoming community that provides an abundance of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Markesha Harden

Online Enrollment Specialist

Phone: 630-844-4942
Email: mharden@aurora.edu

Educational background: BA in Sociology, Augustana College, Rock Island, IL; MS in Human Service Counseling, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA

How long have you been at AU: Since April 2024

What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Take all the knowledge that you've soaked up here and use it to your advantage. Never be afraid to follow your dreams. You've worked hard to make those dreams a reality! We are rooting for you!

Words to describe AU: A warm and embracing community that is dedicated to preparing our students for success!

Valerie Jackson

Graduate Admission Counselor

Phone: 630-947-8938
Email: vjackson@aurora.edu

Educational background: BA in Communication, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL

How long have you been at AU: Since November 2018

What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Visit—whether it be virtually or in-person—and ask questions in the process! Campus visits are the best way to get a feel for the programs you are considering. Once you are an AU student, be sure to get to know your instructors!

Words to describe AU: A tight-knit, flexible, and student-centered community.

Caryn Jakielski

Graduate Admission Counselor

Phone: 630-947-8903
Email: cjakielski@aurora.edu

Educational background: BS in Recreation Administration and Management, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL; MS in Continuing Education and Training Management and MBA, University of St. Francis, Joliet, IL

How long have you been at AU: Since June 2017

What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Don't wait. Start now. There will never be a perfect time to start, so don't put it off.

Words to describe AU: Diverse, inclusive, and a gem in the suburbs.

Bridget LeMaire

Senior Enrollment Specialist

Phone: 630-947-8942
Email: blemaire@aurora.edu

Educational background: BA in Public Relations and Marketing Communications, St. Ambrose University, Davenport, IA; MS in Higher Education Administration, Southern New Hampshire University, Hooksett, NH

How long have you been at AU: Since November 2020

What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Don't keep putting off your degree! The longer you wait to start, the bigger the chance you take at never starting it.

Words to describe AU: Inclusive. Between the autism-friendly residence hall for undergraduate students and the diverse group of students coming from all walks of life, you will find a place and group of friends to fit in.

Cody Mars

Online Enrollment Manager

Phone: 630-947-8901
Email: cmars@aurora.edu

Educational background: BA in Psychology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO; MSW and MBA, Aurora University, Aurora, IL

How long have you been at AU: Since March 2021

What advice would you give to a prospective graduate student: Schedule time for self-care and remain patient with yourself as you progress through your graduate program.

Words to describe AU: Committed to student success and development.