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Tara Sands
Higher Education Professional
Professional Background
Tara Leigh Sands is a highly accomplished professional in the field of higher education, currently serving as the Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life and Involvement at Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. With over ten years of dedicated experience in various functional areas of student affairs, Tara has cultivated a diverse skill set that enhances the vibrant collegiate experience for students. Her current role allows her to oversee fraternity and sorority life, promoting scholarship, leadership, and community engagement among Greek organizations within the college.
Throughout her career, Tara has demonstrated a profound commitment to student development and involvement. Prior to her tenure at Lycoming College, she held several significant positions, including the Director of Leadership, Orientation, and Fraternity and Sorority Life at Muhlenberg College. In this capacity, Tara worked to foster an inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that students felt welcomed and encouraged to engage in campus life from orientation onward. Her experience also extends to her earlier role as the Program Coordinator for Greek and Commuter Life at Delaware Valley University, where she played a crucial role in facilitating community-building activities among commuter students and fraternity/sorority members.
Beyond these positions, Tara's background includes valuable experience in residence life, student conduct, violence prevention programs, campus activities, and clubs and organizations. This wealth of experience has given her a comprehensive understanding of student needs and the dynamics of campus life, enabling her to create programs and initiatives tailored to foster student growth and leadership.
Tara's current pursuit of a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Rochester further underscores her commitment to advancing the field of higher education. Her academic pursuits reflect her passion for empowering students and shaping educational policy and practice to improve the collegiate experience.
Education and Achievements
Tara obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science from Eckerd College, where her academic journey began. This foundational education not only equipped her with critical thinking and scientific skills but also instilled a deep appreciation for the value of education. Following her undergraduate studies, Tara pursued a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in College Student Personnel at Western Carolina University. This degree allowed her to specialize in student affairs, providing her with the tools necessary to impact student development profoundly.
In addition to her ongoing doctoral studies at the University of Rochester, which will undoubtedly contribute to her extensive knowledge and expertise, Tara has been actively involved with professional organizations. She has served as a long-standing volunteer with the Northeast Greek Leadership Association (NGLA) and has played an active role in the Indigenous Peoples Knowledge Community through the National Student Affairs Professionals Association (NSAPA).
Notable Contributions and Achievements
Tara Sands is grounded in her belief that effective leadership and community involvement are pivotal to student success. Her contributions to Greek life and student involvement at Lycoming College are a testament to her passion and dedication. Whether it's through organizing leadership retreats, conducting training sessions for chapter leaders, or implementing educational programs that promote diversity and inclusion, Tara’s influence is widespread and positively impactful.
In her various roles, Tara has consistently prioritized the development of educational programs that address the unique challenges faced by students today. Her work in violence prevention programs has been particularly invaluable, as it conveys a deep concern for student safety and well-being. Through initiatives designed to educate students about consent, respect, and healthy relationships, Tara actively engages students in critical conversations that are crucial in today’s educational environment.
Moreover, her involvement in campus activities and new student orientation showcases her dedication to enriching the student experience by fostering a sense of belonging from day one. By curating experiences that resonate with all students, Tara exemplifies her commitment to building a welcoming community that promotes lifelong connections and personal growth.
As a leader in the field of student affairs, Tara Sands exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated educator and advocate for students. Her professional journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the positive impact that passionate individuals can have within higher education.
Through her commitment to professional development, community engagement, and student empowerment, Tara continues to make significant strides in promoting a robust and inclusive campus culture at Lycoming College, ultimately setting the stage for future generations of students to thrive.