Incoming NAGAP President Kristen Sterba, PhD, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Q A &

with NAGAP Incoming President Kristen Sterba

Incoming President Kristen Sterba, PhD, Associate Provost for Students and Administration, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

What led you to your career in graduate enrollment management? For instance, how did you find your first role in GEM? Why have you continued in this field since?

While completing my PhD in biochemistry and molecular biology in 2002, my institution (the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences) posted a job position for coordinator and recruiter for graduate studies in the College of Medicine. I was not sure if I wanted to go into academic administration or stay in research. Well… I took the position and began recruiting graduate students for the biomedical science research programs. I then assisted with the implementation of a new biomedical science research graduate program. I found that I really enjoyed working with the students and faculty, so I switched career paths from a future biomedical researcher to a GEM professional. It has been a perfect fit.

Tell us about your current role in graduate enrollment management. What do you enjoy most about it?

I am the associate provost for students and administration at UAMS. The departments in my areas of responsibility include Enrollment Services, Campus Life, Title IX, and Accessibility Services. I am also the director of institutional research, policy, and accreditation. It is amazing to be involved with the entire spectrum of student services at the institutional level. I was previously the associate dean of recruitment and retention in the UAMS Graduate School, so I have deep institutional knowledge. I get to work with faculty, staff, and students across the campus and love that I am able to support the mission of our university.

How long have you been involved in NAGAP, and what led you to becoming involved?

I started my first position as recruiter/coordinator in 2004. I needed guidance on how to be successful in my job so I joined NAGAP. A chance encounter in an elevator in 2008 with NAGAP board member Joanne Canyon-Heller and I was “volunteered.” We were talking at a McNair conference, and I mentioned that I wanted to be more involved in NAGAP. Say no more! Joanne helped me find a role as research chair, and I have served in various NAGAP positions ever since.

What are you most excited to work on or accomplish as president?

Beginning face-to-face events again! I cannot wait to be in Chicago for Summit 2022. The pandemic forced NAGAP to pivot to online professional development opportunities for the last two years. We have learned much through these efforts and have developed programs that increase access and bring NAGAP’s mission “home.” We should continue offering online professional development programming since not everyone can travel to our in-person events. During the last several years, NAGAP has conducted numerous research studies with various partners. I would like to expand our industry and association partnerships. This will provide GEM professionals with the best practices and research they need to be more successful in their careers. I am also excited about our new website – launching in spring 2022.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love to run! Roads, trails, races, whatever… I am running the New York City Marathon (unless…you know) in 2022. It is my dream race. I have three boys and am a huge Marvel and Star Wars fan. I also try to relax by doing puzzles or reading, but you will often find me binge watching television shows, my two dogs sitting with me, drink in hand. n