Overview
We have many resources available that will be beneficial for your academic, professional, and personal development. In addition to the individual contacts listed below, you can find a complete list of University offices that can help support you here at Rochester on our student support page and professional development page.
Department Coordinators
Each department has a graduate program coordinator on staff. The graduate program coordinator is a great point of contact for questions and concerns related to your department and academics. See the department coordinators page to find out who your department coordinator is.
The department coordinator can assist with:
- Questions about your program’s coursework and requirements, including required forms and procedures
- Communication with faculty and department chairs
- Connection to support resources
Director of Graduate Studies (DGS)
Each graduate program has a Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) who provides oversight of the program’s curriculum, policies, and procedures.
Your DGS can help with:
- Understanding the academic requirements, expectations, and resources specific to your department
- Guidance on finding a faculty advisor
- Navigating challenges within your department
Contacts in the GEPA Office
Assistant Director of Student Services
Katie Ferruzza
k.ferruzza@rochester.edu
As a member of the CARE Network, Katie is often the first point of contact for students in need of support.
Contact Katie for help with:
- Exploring options for mental health and well-being support
- Addressing personal or family emergencies and other challenging situations
- Engaging with peers through events and graduate student groups
- Connection to the vast number of support services available to graduate students
Associate Director of Academic Affairs
Leanne Temp
leanne.temp@rochester.edu
Leanne is the point person for academic matters in the GEPA office.
Contact Leanne for help with:
- Understanding University and school policies and procedures
- Taking time away from your graduate studies or leaving the University
- Navigating difficulties in your academic progress
Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement and Career Support
Dave Cota-Buckhout
dcotabuc@ur.rochester.edu
As the point person for career support in GEPA, Dave meets with students individually and offers workshops for career support and professional development.
Contact Dave for help with:
- Career education and professional development, including resume/CV and cover letter review, job search strategies, and interview prep
- Questions about the career support resources available at UR
- Connecting with alumni and building a professional network
Assistant Dean of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs
Kris Lantzky-Eaton
klantzky@ur.rochester.edu
Kris takes on many roles as she supports the staff and operations of the GEPA office. Kris also works with students and faculty on complex issues. Students may be referred to Kris by Katie or Leanne if more support is deemed appropriate.
Contact Kris for help with:
- Navigating difficult conversations between students and advisors
- Mentorship for graduate students focused on general academic development and support
- Support for postdocs
Dean of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs
Nick Vamivakas
nick.vamivakas@rochester.edu
As dean, Nick is our advocate for graduate education. As a faculty member and research advisor himself, he has a strong understanding of the relationship between students and faculty. Nick is available to meet with students if they have concerns or want to talk.
University Ombuds Office
The Ombuds office helps resolve disagreements for students, faculty and staff. Some ways they might help include:
- Providing guidance and coaching in areas like problem-solving, decision-making, and mediation practices
- Reaching out to those you’re having the conflict with to hear all sides of the issue
- Getting everyone in the conflict together to have a group conversation and try to reach a resolution
See the ombuds page for more information.