INFORMATION FOR
Every month during the academic year, we will spotlight a different member of the WP faculty or staff who plays a powerful role in student success.
Name: Stephanie Anne Kuran, MA
Title: Professional Academic Advisor & Retention Specialist in the Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center
Years at WP: 10
Tell us about yourself: I was born and raised in Edison, NewJersey (yes, Central Jersey does exist!). I earned both my Bachelor of Arts in Radio/TV/Film and my Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from Rowan University. I began my career at community colleges in New Jersey, working as a career counselor and transfer advisor before joining the WP family10 years ago. I’m married with two children, Orion (10) and Luna (8), and have a love for astronomy and space—my office is filled with space memorabilia! Outside of work, you’ll find me hanging out with my two dogs, Edgar and Minerva, or shuttling my kids to their various after-school activities.
Describe your role on campus: As a Professional Academic Advisor and Retention Specialist in the Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center, I work closely with students to help them navigate degree requirements, develop academic plans, overcome challenges, and stay on track toward graduation. I also collaborate with faculty, departments, and campus partners to connect students with resources and opportunities that support their success.
At the heart of my role is building strong, trusting relationships with students so I can better understand and support their individual needs. I work closely with nursing students, who face unique challenges and demanding coursework. I’ve worked hard to create a space where they can access academic resources while also developing their social and emotional skills. Building a strong nursing community has been one of the most important and rewarding initiatives I’ve taken on at WP.
A defining moment at WP: One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been watching students grow into confident, capable professionals. Seeing a student who began college feeling uncertain gain confidence, find their direction, and ultimately walk across the graduation stage is a powerful reminder of why student support matters. Sometimes, a little encouragement, guidance, and someone willing to believe in a student can make a lasting difference.
I’ve always measured my success by how comfortable students feel coming to me. When they stop by to chat, share exciting news, or even vent about the stresses of college, I know I’ve built the kind of relationship I strive for. Those everyday moments remind me that making a difference isn't always about a major milestone; sometimes, it's simply about being someone a student knows they can count on.
Favorite part about your job: My favorite part of my job is building relationships with students and being part of their journeys from the very beginning. I love presenting at open houses and meeting students and families as they explore majors and navigate the college selection process. Academic advisors are often among the first people students and their families meet on campus, and I love the opportunity to make a positive, lasting first impression—and hopefully be a small part of what makes them choose WP.
There is something especially rewarding about following a student’s journey from those first conversations all the way to graduation. I’m always so proud and excited to see them walk across the stage. I often tell my students that we’re a team, and I hope they feel that sense of partnership and support right through to the finish line. Being able to make a meaningful difference, even in a small way, is what makes this work so fulfilling.
Fun fact: I’m a self-taught metalsmith with a small workshop in my home! I love learning new techniques and creating one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces for myself and my family. It’s a fun, creative outlet that lets me turn an idea into something tangible.
Finish this sentence: "WP is a powerhouse of diversity."
Every day, I see students arrive at WP with different backgrounds, experiences, challenges, and dreams. What makes this university special is its ability to bring those individuals together, connect them with opportunities, and help them discover what they can achieve—all while honoring and celebrating the unique backgrounds and perspectives they bring to our community. Our diversity makes our community stronger, enriches the experiences we share, and reminds us that there is no single path to success.
