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Manny Avila working on his laptop. He's wearing headphones and smiling.

Get to know your academic and career advisors

UW–Madison Online provides individual support and advising throughout your student journey. Once you are admitted and complete your online orientation, your enrollment coach will introduce you to your academic and career advisor. Your academic and career advisor is with you through the rest of your Wisconsin experience. Academic and career advisor will:

  • Help you map out your course schedule and academic plan
  • Provide advice and coaching to help you achieve your career aspirations
  • Refer and connect you with other resources at UW–Madison
  • Assist you in developing a goal-based and action-oriented plan for success
  • Help you navigate challenges and barriers you may encounter during your student journey

These are just a few of the areas where your academic and career advisor will be able to assist you. Your success is their main goal.

Academic and career advisors

Leanne Johnson

Position title: Academic and career advisor

I am here to support you through your entire journey toward degree attainment, including helping you understand academic requirements, connect with resources across campus and develop and take steps to strengthen your career goals. I can also assist with other issues that may impact your educational goals.

I have been a career changer, working in a variety of roles before finding a career that speaks to my personal values. I enjoy getting to know students, helping them problem solve through issues that come up and celebrating their successes along the way.

Karen Thomas

Position title: Director, Office of Online Student Success

Working with students has always been my favorite part of the various roles I’ve held at UW-Madison. As a first-generation graduate, transfer student, and online student, I find joy in connecting with others from similar backgrounds who are seeking to obtain a degree and fulfill their dreams.

As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” I firmly believe this and look forward to meeting with and supporting students to achieve their personal, academic and professional goals.