Staff
Meet Our Staff
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Charlie Varland
Associate Dean of Students
I love backpacking in the Sawtooth Mountains, commuting to work on my bike, going to live music, and spending time with my wife, son, and cat.
Ask Me About:
- Creating Change
- Developing the Capacity to Lead
- Exploring Purpose
Education & Experience:
Pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership from Colorado State University. Master of Education, Iowa State University. Bachelor of Arts, English, Western Washington University
Why Student Involvement?
Getting involved on campus is as important as going to class. Take time to explore something new, learn outside the classroom, and make a difference in your community.
I love backpacking in the Sawtooth Mountains, commuting to work on my bike, going to live music, and spending time with my wife, son, and cat.
Ask Me About:
- Creating Change
- Developing the Capacity to Lead
- Exploring Purpose
Education & Experience:
Pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership from Colorado State University. Master of Education, Iowa State University. Bachelor of Arts, English, Western Washington University
Why Student Involvement?
Getting involved on campus is as important as going to class. Take time to explore something new, learn outside the classroom, and make a difference in your community.
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Claire Phillips
Student Organizations Coordinator
Big fan of anything great outdoors and spending time with family/friends, taking in all the beauty of our great state, and exploring our world’s scenic landscapes! Catch me out on the trails at golden hour!
Ask Me About:
- Getting involved and making the most of your college experience!
- Meeting new people and developing lasting connections!
- Making a difference and creating the life you want to live… your unique story!
- Local trails and amazing parks/recreation Boise has to offer!
Education & Experience:
Bachelor of Science in K-12 Education, Emphasis in Physical Education and Health Education, Idaho State University. Teaching students in the classroom setting and planning and implementing programs/curriculum to meet students needs. Collaborating and consistent communication with all team members, love being part of a TEAM!
Why Student Involvement:
My college years were pivotal, memorable, and transformative… realizing my potential and being a part of something so much greater than myself. Getting involved and maximizing my college experience have helped shape who I am today. Every student has their own journey, and each and everyone leaves their legacy here on campus. I’m excited to help guide students and cheer them on as they live out their full potential and experience their own unique adventure here at Boise State!
Big fan of anything great outdoors and spending time with family/friends, taking in all the beauty of our great state, and exploring our world’s scenic landscapes! Catch me out on the trails at golden hour!
Ask Me About:
- Getting involved and making the most of your college experience!
- Meeting new people and developing lasting connections!
- Making a difference and creating the life you want to live… your unique story!
- Local trails and amazing parks/recreation Boise has to offer!
Education & Experience:
Bachelor of Science in K-12 Education, Emphasis in Physical Education and Health Education, Idaho State University. Teaching students in the classroom setting and planning and implementing programs/curriculum to meet students needs. Collaborating and consistent communication with all team members, love being part of a TEAM!
Why Student Involvement:
My college years were pivotal, memorable, and transformative… realizing my potential and being a part of something so much greater than myself. Getting involved and maximizing my college experience have helped shape who I am today. Every student has their own journey, and each and everyone leaves their legacy here on campus. I’m excited to help guide students and cheer them on as they live out their full potential and experience their own unique adventure here at Boise State!
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Erin Mahn
Director, Student Involvement and Leadership
Although, I grew up in a house in Phoenix, Arizona I have also lived in a canoe and a tree.
Ask Me About:
- Getting Involved
- Student Organizations
- Strengths-Based Leadership
Education & Experience:
Master of Science, Student Affairs in Higher Education, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Over twenty years in the field of experiential education and student development. Bachelor of Science, Urban and Environmental Policy, Occidental College, Los Angeles.
Why Student Involvement?
I am inspired every day by Boise State students that are taking steps towards realizing their potential through their involvement. They are bold, curious, creative and hopeful. I am honored to be a part of their journey.
Although, I grew up in a house in Phoenix, Arizona I have also lived in a canoe and a tree.
Ask Me About:
- Getting Involved
- Student Organizations
- Strengths-Based Leadership
Education & Experience:
Master of Science, Student Affairs in Higher Education, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Over twenty years in the field of experiential education and student development. Bachelor of Science, Urban and Environmental Policy, Occidental College, Los Angeles.
Why Student Involvement?
I am inspired every day by Boise State students that are taking steps towards realizing their potential through their involvement. They are bold, curious, creative and hopeful. I am honored to be a part of their journey.
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Jenn Fields
Assistant Director, Student Involvement and Leadership
I love taking road trips and have a life goal to explore all the major National Parks! I also love playing volleyball, cuddling with my kitties, and going line dancing.
Ask Me About:
- Student Media
- Getting Involved in Student Government
- Tips for Road Tripping
Education & Experience:
Master of Arts, Higher Education Administration and Leadership Studies, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA; Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.
Why Student Involvement?
Students get to explore their passions and develop their leadership skills by getting involved. I am honored to be a part of students’ journeys and seek to empower them to challenge themselves.
I love taking road trips and have a life goal to explore all the major National Parks! I also love playing volleyball, cuddling with my kitties, and going line dancing.
Ask Me About:
- Student Media
- Getting Involved in Student Government
- Tips for Road Tripping
Education & Experience:
Master of Arts, Higher Education Administration and Leadership Studies, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA; Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.
Why Student Involvement?
Students get to explore their passions and develop their leadership skills by getting involved. I am honored to be a part of students’ journeys and seek to empower them to challenge themselves.
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Leo Mironovich
Graduate Assistant, Service Programming
I enjoy riding my bike, playing soccer, watching professional wrestling, playing Magic the Gathering, and speaking three languages.
Ask Me About:
- Service and volunteer opportunities on campus
- Alternative Breaks (like Partnership Jamaica)
- Ukrainian culture and language
Education & Experience:
BA in History/French and Francophone Studies from the University of Notre Dame; M.Ed. from the University of Notre Dame; pursuing a MA in Counseling at Boise State University.
Why Student Involvement?
Some of the most rewarding experiences come from stepping outside of your comfort zone and leaning into something new. Volunteering and serving others or our community does that and so much more!
I enjoy riding my bike, playing soccer, watching professional wrestling, playing Magic the Gathering, and speaking three languages.
Ask Me About:
- Service and volunteer opportunities on campus
- Alternative Breaks (like Partnership Jamaica)
- Ukrainian culture and language
Education & Experience:
BA in History/French and Francophone Studies from the University of Notre Dame; M.Ed. from the University of Notre Dame; pursuing a MA in Counseling at Boise State University.
Why Student Involvement?
Some of the most rewarding experiences come from stepping outside of your comfort zone and leaning into something new. Volunteering and serving others or our community does that and so much more!
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Mark Jasper Gehrke
Assistant Dean of Students for Fraternity and Sorority Life
I love almost all things nerdy and exploring the Idaho wilderness. Traveling to new places and experiencing new cultures with my family are also some of my favorite things to do.
Ask Me About:
- What it means to be in a sorority or fraternity
- How to make a lasting impact at Boise State University
- Saying “yes” to new opportunities
- Movie and television show recommendations
Education & Experience:
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Boise State University. Previously served as the Director of Chapter Services for Delta Upsilon International Fraternity and Assistant Executive Director for the Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values.
Why Student Involvement:
Getting involved during my time as an undergrad at Boise State was the single most impactful decision of my life. Having the opportunity to help support students along that path and realize their ability to positively impact the world is my dream job.
I love almost all things nerdy and exploring the Idaho wilderness. Traveling to new places and experiencing new cultures with my family are also some of my favorite things to do.
Ask Me About:
- What it means to be in a sorority or fraternity
- How to make a lasting impact at Boise State University
- Saying “yes” to new opportunities
- Movie and television show recommendations
Education & Experience:
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Boise State University. Previously served as the Director of Chapter Services for Delta Upsilon International Fraternity and Assistant Executive Director for the Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values.
Why Student Involvement:
Getting involved during my time as an undergrad at Boise State was the single most impactful decision of my life. Having the opportunity to help support students along that path and realize their ability to positively impact the world is my dream job.
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Maura Romano
Campus Programs Coordinator
You will catch me at all the best concerts, festivals, and live performances alike. I have a passion for good food, great music, rainy days, and spending lots of time with my friends and family!
Ask Me About:
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Where the fun stuff happens!
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Event planning
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Professional and leadership development
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Book and music recommendations
Education & Experience:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Biology, Willamette University, and 4 years of experience in student leadership, event planning, and marketing.
Why student involvement?
I want to support students as they ramp up their experience here at Boise State, offer leadership opportunities, and help them find their passions in life. I believe getting involved during your time at university can not only amplify your college experience but also bolster your educational journey! It is a privilege to be a part of this chapter in life for our students and to inspire new adventures.
You will catch me at all the best concerts, festivals, and live performances alike. I have a passion for good food, great music, rainy days, and spending lots of time with my friends and family!
Ask Me About:
-
Where the fun stuff happens!
-
Event planning
-
Professional and leadership development
-
Book and music recommendations
Education & Experience:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Biology, Willamette University, and 4 years of experience in student leadership, event planning, and marketing.
Why student involvement?
I want to support students as they ramp up their experience here at Boise State, offer leadership opportunities, and help them find their passions in life. I believe getting involved during your time at university can not only amplify your college experience but also bolster your educational journey! It is a privilege to be a part of this chapter in life for our students and to inspire new adventures.
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Melinda Jean Stafford
Associate Director, Student Involvement and Leadership
I am a beekeeper and also design and create handmade bow ties. Catch me shreddin’ the gnar at Bogus Basin!
Ask Me About:
- Marketing
- Alternative Breaks
- Honey bees
Education & Experience:
Master’s in College Student Affairs Administration from The University of Georgia, and two bachelors degrees from The University of Idaho in Clothing, Textiles, and Design, and Communication Studies.
Why Student Involvement?
The college experience is memorable when students are having fun and building friendships and tradition. I love being a part of a team that does exactly that!
I am a beekeeper and also design and create handmade bow ties. Catch me shreddin’ the gnar at Bogus Basin!
Ask Me About:
- Marketing
- Alternative Breaks
- Honey bees
Education & Experience:
Master’s in College Student Affairs Administration from The University of Georgia, and two bachelors degrees from The University of Idaho in Clothing, Textiles, and Design, and Communication Studies.
Why Student Involvement?
The college experience is memorable when students are having fun and building friendships and tradition. I love being a part of a team that does exactly that!
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Nick Poling
Senior Coordinator of Fraternity and Sorority Life
I love backpacking, mountaineering, and photographing these adventures. I also play the banjo.
Ask Me About:
- Fraternity and Sorority Life
- Risk Management
- Backpacking Gear
Education & Experience:
Master of Higher Education with a Student Affairs concentration, Boston CollegeBachelor of Arts, Political Science, Allegheny CollegeWhy Student Involvement?
The student experience offers a unique space for personal and professional growth and leadership. Student Involvement has a major role in this, and I am very appreciative of the opportunity to support students as they navigate their distinctive interests and experiences.I love backpacking, mountaineering, and photographing these adventures. I also play the banjo.
Ask Me About:
- Fraternity and Sorority Life
- Risk Management
- Backpacking Gear
Education & Experience:
Master of Higher Education with a Student Affairs concentration, Boston CollegeBachelor of Arts, Political Science, Allegheny CollegeWhy Student Involvement?
The student experience offers a unique space for personal and professional growth and leadership. Student Involvement has a major role in this, and I am very appreciative of the opportunity to support students as they navigate their distinctive interests and experiences. -
Sarah Stearns
Student Organizations Coordinator
I am a Boise native and love exploring the foothills and enjoying all the recreation opportunities that Idaho has to offer. You can find me hammocking along the greenbelt or hiking with my golden retriever, Posie!
Ask Me About:
- Getting involved on campus
- Professional Development
- Increasing turnout and retention for your student organization
- All things city planning and sustainability
Education & Experience
Bachelor of Arts, Urban Studies and Community Development, Boise State University. Experience in communication, outreach, and student engagement in higher education.
Why Student Involvement?
The transition into being a college student is a trying one, but also one of the most transformative and empowering experiences you can ask for. I have a passion for making that transition as rewarding as possible and ensuring you get the most out of your college adventure through leadership opportunities, involvement, and professional development.
I am a Boise native and love exploring the foothills and enjoying all the recreation opportunities that Idaho has to offer. You can find me hammocking along the greenbelt or hiking with my golden retriever, Posie!
Ask Me About:
- Getting involved on campus
- Professional Development
- Increasing turnout and retention for your student organization
- All things city planning and sustainability
Education & Experience
Bachelor of Arts, Urban Studies and Community Development, Boise State University. Experience in communication, outreach, and student engagement in higher education.
Why Student Involvement?
The transition into being a college student is a trying one, but also one of the most transformative and empowering experiences you can ask for. I have a passion for making that transition as rewarding as possible and ensuring you get the most out of your college adventure through leadership opportunities, involvement, and professional development.
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Trish Howley
Administrative Assistant II
I love camping and fishing with my family. When I’m not camping with them I am out with a BSA Scout troop. I also enjoy learning new recipes to cook for my family.Ask Me About:
- Traveling with your Student Organization
- Spending money from your Student Organization account.
- Cosplay and Comic Con
Education & Experience:
I have been in retail management for over 15 years. During that time, I have managed a pet store, sadly it’s not just playing with animals. Most recently, I worked for Hallmark Cards where I managed a team of 12. I am looking forward to the exciting new experiences of working with the Student Organizations on campus.Why Student Involvement?
I love supporting and helping people accomplish their goals. College is a time for new adventures and learning about oneself. I look forward to assisting students with their campus experience.I love camping and fishing with my family. When I’m not camping with them I am out with a BSA Scout troop. I also enjoy learning new recipes to cook for my family.Ask Me About:
- Traveling with your Student Organization
- Spending money from your Student Organization account.
- Cosplay and Comic Con
Education & Experience:
I have been in retail management for over 15 years. During that time, I have managed a pet store, sadly it’s not just playing with animals. Most recently, I worked for Hallmark Cards where I managed a team of 12. I am looking forward to the exciting new experiences of working with the Student Organizations on campus.Why Student Involvement?
I love supporting and helping people accomplish their goals. College is a time for new adventures and learning about oneself. I look forward to assisting students with their campus experience.
Student Staff
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Annija Sproles
Office Assistant
Sophomore. Nursing major. -
Colin Buxton
Programming Assistant
Sophomore. Elementary Education. -
Ella Baumer
Programming Assistant
Junior. Communication major, business minor. -
Jacob Peters
Programming Assistant
Junior. Secondary education major. -
Kiki Metcalf
Marketing Assistant
Senior. Communication major. -
Lindsey McConnell
Programming Assistant
Junior. Marketing major, business minor. -
Macy Timczyk
Programming Assistant
Sophomore. Applied mathematics major. -
Quinn Petersen
Social Media Assistant
Senior. Communications major, public relations minor.
Student Life Finance
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Amy Jauregui, CPA
Senior Business Manager
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