We began our exploration of Stanford University with lunch at Tresidder Memorial Union.

After a self-guided tour of the campus, we drove to Escondido Village Graduate Residences (EVGR), and were warmly welcomed by Angie Hawkins, one of our alumni in the Bay area, who now serves as the Associate Director of Educational Programs at Stanford.

A conversation with Stanford’s “GLO” deans, moderated by CSHPE alumna Angie Hawkins.

After a brief introduction, we were fortunate to engage in an insightful panel discussion with the deans of the Graduate Life Office (GLO), expertly facilitated by Angie. The conversation was initiated with Christine Gibo, Assistant Dean of Students and Associate Director, who introduced the work and support provided by GLO. GLO’s primary focus is to assist graduate students in navigating a variety of situations including, but not limited to personal issues, roommate problems, family and health concerns, academic challenges, and financial difficulties, as well as help students manage different types of stress. GLO offers assistance in a holistic manner, and they usually would provide students with multiple campus resources tailored to their specific needs. GLO is accessible even during after-hours to make sure students get support in a timely manner. They also extend their support to individuals affiliated with Stanford, such as family members of Stanford students.

A candid panel discussion with colleagues serving on the front-line of graduate student support.
Left to right: Amanda Sharick, Christine Gibo, Nick Antonucci, and Bianca Ortiz.

Amanda Sharick, Assistant Dean of Students, emphasized how GLO helps students navigate their relationships with faculty. They bridge the communication between students and faculty, and part of their role is to manage faculty and their expectations. Nick Antonicci, Assistant Dean of Students, added that the GLO operates on a case management basis. Students approach them with their questions and concerns, and GLO responds by providing support and connecting them with relevant resources on campus. They will also connect students to legal services if needed. Bianca Ortiz, Assistant Dean of Students, highlighted that Stanford is a well-resourced institution with 13 dedicated individuals in GLO to provide support to students. Bianca acknowledged that it is a privilege for the Stanford campus to have such rich resources to serve its graduate student community.

–Yiping Bai, doctoral candidate