Kaycee Sakal
Des Plaines,IL
Summary
Dynamic academic advisor with extensive experience at Loyola University Chicago, skilled in curriculum planning and student advocacy. Proven track record in enhancing student engagement and retention through strategic decision-making and program development. Adept at utilizing PeopleSoft for academic records management while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving among students. Resourceful professional in higher education administration known for high productivity and efficient task completion. Skilled in strategic planning, program development, and policy implementation. Excel at leadership, communication, and problem-solving to enhance educational programs and student success. Committed to fostering inclusive learning environments and improving administrative processes.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Academic Advisor
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL
01.2023 - Current
- Offered knowledgeable advising to students on class choices, scheduling, and career planning.
- Assisted individuals with overcoming problems negatively impacting educational and vocational success.
- Supported students making important educational choices and assisted with selecting courses, scheduling classes, and adjusting to school life.
- Encouraged critical thinking skills among students through active learning strategies in classroom discussions.
- Utilized technology tools such as Learning Management Systems, e.g., Sakai, to enhance student engagement with course materials.
- Co-led the Probation Committee to identify the needs of students placed on academic probation.
- Offered to assist with additional tasks to keep projects on task and meet tight deadlines, including creating academic planning modules for incoming first-year students.
Academic Records Assistant
Northwestern University
Chicago, IL
05.2022 - 01.2023
- Updated course catalogs and program descriptions on regular basis.
- Collaborated with other departments to resolve issues related to student records and registration.
- Evaluated petitions for exceptions to academic policy or requirements.
- Implemented registration procedures for new and returning students.
Associate Director of New Student Experience
National Louis University
Chicago, IL
09.2021 - 05.2022
- Developed and implemented comprehensive orientation programs for new students.
- Coordinated with other Orientation Leaders to ensure smooth program implementation and event facilitation.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of orientation programs through surveys and focus groups with participants.
- Supported the transition of transfer students through targeted programming efforts.
Transfer Credit Evaluator
Benedictine University
04.2021 - 09.2021
- Verified transfer credits from other institutions for incoming students.
- Update necessary course changes in Transfer Evaluation System (TES).
- Evaluate and maintain records from external credit sources, such as College Board (AP/CLEP), International Baccalaureate, etc.
- Performed additional projects to allow the registrar's office team to maintain day-to-day operations despite pandemic challenges.
Seasonal Transfer Coordinator
Benedictine University
06.2020 - 09.2020
- Reviewed and evaluated admitted transfer student files for evaluation.
- Evaluated and maintained records from external credit sources, such as College Board (AP/CLEP), International Baccalaureate, etc.
- Performed additional projects to allow the registrar's office team to maintain day-to-day operations despite pandemic challenges.
Student Advisor
Pearson Embanet
01.2014 - 06.2014
- Provided academic advising for 1,200 students on their program of study, including coordinating schedules for a roster of over 300 active students to ensure they meet their goals for graduation.
- Maintained and managed required daily metrics and Communication Plan.
- Worked closely with a team of nine other team members to manage the daily workings of Student Services department.
Assistant Director of Undergraduate Academic Affairs
Illinois Institute of Technology
01.2013 - 08.2013
- Performed transfer evaluations on all accepted transfer student's transcripts from previous institutions.
- Reviewed and monitored students' completed courses and updated them of their graduation status using Banner Academic system.
- Provided basic academic advising for over 3,500 undergraduate students at IIT.
Financial Aid Advisor
Career Education Corporation
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Assisted over 1,000 students on Federal and State regulations regarding degree programs and the Financial Aid process.
- Collaborated with team members to manage the financial aid needs of five campuses.
- Advised and counseled full and part-time undergraduate students on the availability of financial aid, the delivery process for receiving it, and the reconciliation processes required to ensure that financial aid funds are transferred to student account.
Education
Doctor of Education (Ed. D) - Higher Education Administration
National Louis University
Chicago, Illinois04.2026
Education Specialist (Ed.S.) - Higher Education Administration
National Louis University
Chicago, Illinois09.2025
Master of Art - Organizational Leadership, Specialization in Student Services
Lewis University
Romeoville, Illinois12.2015
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Saint Xavier University
Chicago, Illinois12.2011
Skills
- Student development and advocacy
- Mentorship and retention strategies
- Higher education policy
- Innovation and problem-solving
- Conflict mediation and crisis management
Timeline
Academic Advisor
Loyola University Chicago
01.2023 - Current
Academic Records Assistant
Northwestern University
05.2022 - 01.2023
Associate Director of New Student Experience
National Louis University
09.2021 - 05.2022
Transfer Credit Evaluator
Benedictine University
04.2021 - 09.2021
Seasonal Transfer Coordinator
Benedictine University
06.2020 - 09.2020
Student Advisor
Pearson Embanet
01.2014 - 06.2014
Assistant Director of Undergraduate Academic Affairs
Illinois Institute of Technology
01.2013 - 08.2013
Financial Aid Advisor
Career Education Corporation
01.2012 - 01.2013
Doctor of Education (Ed. D) - Higher Education Administration
National Louis University
Education Specialist (Ed.S.) - Higher Education Administration
National Louis University
Master of Art - Organizational Leadership, Specialization in Student Services
Lewis University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Saint Xavier University