Jennifer Schaer

Director of Project Strive/TRIO

As a proud first-generation student from Gordon, NE, it is an honor to be the Director of Project Strive/TRIO. Raised on a farm/ranch operation, I graduated from Chadron State College with my undergraduate degree in Physical Education (K-12) in May 1997 and with my master's in education in May 2002. I spent 12 years on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation as a teacher, coach & athletic director. In June of 2012, I returned to Chadron State in the role I currently have. Strive/TRIO has seen many changes over the years, from relocating to the library, to watching hundreds of Strive students walk across the stage to get their diplomas. I love supporting, assisting, & serving students as they pursue their academic dreams. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, home improvement projects, and hanging out with my cats. Stop in any time; my door is always open.

Phone Number: (308) 432-6069
Email: jschaer@goudounet.com
Office: Library Learning Commons 112
Mailing Address: 1000 Main St.

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Amanda Lewin

Retention Specialist

I’m Amanda Lewin, the retention specialist for Project Strive. I obtained my bachelor’s degree from Chadron State College in 2010. In 2015, I joined the Project Strive team. As a first-generation college student, I understand the challenges of attending college. In my role, I provide services to Project Strive students, guiding them towards successful graduation. I offer academic advising, study sessions, and guidance on time management. In addition, I work with departments on campus to create and implement training, enrichment, and personal development programs to enhance students’ educational experiences. These are all services that I wish I had utilized when I was a student.

I want to create an environment to support you if you’re facing difficulties navigating college or feeling like you don’t belong. If you need someone who empathizes with the unique journey of being a first-gen student, while also guiding you academically and providing accountability, reach out – I’m here to help.

Phone Number: (308) 432-6033
Email: alewin@goudounet.com
Office: Library Learning Commons 112
Mailing Address: 1000 Main St.

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Susan Rolfsmeier

Part Time Academic Advisor

I serve as a part-time academic advisor in the Project Strive Student Support Services office at CSC. In 1997, I graduated from the University of Montana with a bachelor’s degree in biology. My husband Steve and I moved to Chadron in 2003 to work on developing a collections database for the High Plains Herbarium at CSC. Though we spent a few years in Manhattan, KS for me to study plant systematics at Kansas State University, we couldn’t wait to return to Chadron and the natural beauty of the northern Great Plains. As a first-generation college graduate, I often felt alone trying to navigate the struggles of college. It feels great to be part of the Project Strive team where we work together to offer support, build community, and provide resources to help students succeed. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, relaxing with my cats, hiking with my dog, and using the creative arts to relax. My office door is always open.

Phone Number: (308) 432-6257
Email: sjrolfsmeier@goudounet.com
Office: Library Learning Commons 112
Mailing Address: 1000 Main St.

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Sonja Dressel

Licensed Student Counselor

I am a licensed student counselor with 21 years of experience in the field; I am passionate about supporting students through their academic and personal journeys. I specialize in providing a safe and confidential space for students to explore and navigate various mental health challenges. My approach is client-centered, holistic, and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based practices, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I am committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive campus community by offering individual counseling, workshops, and outreach programs aimed at promoting mental wellness and resilience. I understand the unique challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds and tailor therapeutic approaches to meet your needs. Whether you’re facing academic pressures, adjusting to college life, or seeking personal growth, I am here to help you thrive academically and personally.

Phone Number: (308) 432-6242
Email: sdressel@goudounet.com
Office: Library Learning Commons 112
Mailing Address: 1000 Main St.

Schedule a 50-minute counseling session

Schedule a 30-minute academic advising session