Meet the Staff



Kristin Schumacher
Director of Student Development & Leadership



As Director of Student Development & Leadership, I strive to provide students with opportunities outside the classroom with both social and educational experiences, in which they can carry over into their professional and personal life after college. It is fun for me to see students’ ideas come to life!

As an undergraduate, I was involved in 9 different clubs and activities. It enhanced my college experience so much, that I decided being in higher education was the right place for me. I understand from a student’s perspective what it means to work hard and achieve goals and get the most out of a college experience. From a professional standpoint, if I can help facilitate those goals with a student – then I have truly done my job!

I enjoy living a healthy lifestyle by staying active and working out. I have completed 3 Twin Cities Marathons and 6 Half Marathons. I am married to my college sweetheart Dan and we have three amazing and active kids, Kasey, Jack & Declan. We live in Channahon, IL and spend a lot of time enjoying the outdoors and watching the kids compete in their favorite sports.

Winona State University
B.A. & Masters, Communications and Educational Leadership; 1989, 2007

Favorite Quote:
Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.
-Willa A. Foster

schumakr@lewisu.edu
815.836.5037
Student Union 109



Sean P. Fagan
Assistant Director of Student Development & Leadership



The atmosphere of a college or university campus is unlike any other. The energy that the students bring combined with the opportunities for creative outlets and experiential learning is unlike any other place to work. As an undergraduate, I attended Bradley University in Peoria, IL. From the moment I arrived, I realized the benefits of being involved in activities around campus. As a member of several organizations, I held numerous executive board positions. Personally, my college experience was enhanced by being able to contribute to the campus life during my tenure.

My work at Lewis began in August of 2009 as a graduate assistant for SDL. At the time I was earning my master's degree in organizational leadership. Working with students gave me the opportunity develop skills and explore career options in higher education. I was delighted to accept a full-time position following my graduation. Armed with the knowledge my studies have provided me, my work with SDL allows me put theories into practice. If I can help the students at Lewis finds ways to "leave their mark" while they are here, I feel like I have been successful.

Bradley University
Bachelor of Science, Psychology; May 2005

Lewis University
Master of Arts, Organizational Leadership; December 2010

Favorite Quotes:
Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.
-Mark Twain

There is something that is much more scarce, something far finer, something rarer than ability. It is the ability to recognize ability.
-Elbert Hubbard

faganse@lewisu.edu
815.836.5469
Student Union 102



Colleen Hennessy
Graduate Assistant for Student Development & Leadership



I was so fortunate to have received the Graduate Assistant position for Student Development and Leadership in the Fall of 2011. I graduated from Lewis with my bachelors in Studio Art in 2010, and I wanted to pursue a passion for teaching, so this position gave me the perfect opportunity to work and learn at Lewis again. I was actively involved in Art Club during my undergraduate years as President as well, so working with student organizations through SDL felt like a great fit for me. Lewis has been a part of my life for many years now, and I have enjoyed my time here thoroughly.

When I'm not on campus at work or class I live in Elmhurst, Illinois. I look for any opportunity to spend time with my family and friends. I also am a lover of outdoor activities including fishing, boating kayaking and running.

I look forward to the rest of my time here at Lewis, and know that it will help my future goals and dreams come to fruition.

Favorite Quotes:
Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.
-Mahatma Gandhi
So you're telling me there's a chance....YEAH!
-Lloyd(Dumb and Dumber)

hennesco@lewisu.edu
(815) 836-5834
Student Union 101



Sophia Barakat
Graduate Assistant for Student Development & Leadership



I am so blessed to have received the graduate position with Student Development and Leadership. I love the home-like atmosphere the Lewis community gives to their students, faculty and staff. I enjoy all the opportunities that Lewis gives to each student to grow and development themselves. I am particularly interested in working in this department because of its commitment to provide challenging leadership opportunities for all students.

I received my undergraduate degree here at Lewis University. I always loved being involved and I am glad that I am able to continue doing just that. I was involved in many activities throughout my time here at Lewis including: President of Theta Kappa Pi, Relay for Life Chair, The Pulse, Student Governing Board, and I was a student representative for various Lewis committees. I was also the Student Organization Resource Center (SORC) Student Supervisor for two years. The best memories come from being involved. All the support that I have received, meeting new people and all the laughable moments still make me smile.

Originally, I am from Oak Lawn, IL and was also very active in my high school there. I have always loved knowing what schools have to offer their students. I loved learning from my elders, peers and mentors because they’ve helped me over the years to grow and development.

I am seeking my Masters in Organizational Leadership and I am looking forward to applying all my new leadership skills into working with Lewis Students. It will not only help them develop, but it will also help me build as a person as well.

Favorite Quotes:
“God will never leave you empty. He will replace everything you lost. If he asks you to put something down, it’s because he wants you to pick up something greater.”

“You will never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory”
–SpongeBob Squarepants.

barakaso@lewisu.edu
815-836-5067
Student Union 102