Dr. Fernie Rodriguez brings a strong background in student affairs, advocacy and programming for underrepresented students, as well as in academic support. They have a keen understanding of the many intersectional identities that students bring to their college experience and how supporting and celebrating these attributes contribute to their holistic development. Dr. Rodriguez is a first-generation college graduate.

Originally from El Paso, Texas, which is located on the U.S. border with Mexico. They earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Texas at Austin, a master’s in higher education student personnel administration from New York University, and a doctorate in higher education from the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Christina Olstad has served in various roles in student affairs and has nearly 25 years of experience in higher education administration, residential life and housing, student activities, and leadership development. She received undergraduate and master’s degrees in social work at Augsburg University and an EdD in educational leadership and policy studies at the University of Vermont. Prior to joining UW–Madison, Dr. Olstad served as the Interim Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs at Towson University in Towson, Maryland. She held previous positions at Augsburg University, University of New England, University of Vermont, and Semester at Sea. Her academic interests include social justice education, developing intercultural competence, supporting students in recovery, financial literacy, crisis response, and creating innovative approaches to retention and persistence to graduation. Outside of work she enjoys working out, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.