NASPA is a non-profit association that serves as the professional home for the field of student affairs. The Pillars of the Profession recognition is one of their highest honors and is awarded to individuals who have been nominated and supported by colleagues, friends, former students and others. Each year, a select group of Pillars of the Profession are recognized during the NASPA Annual Conference.
In 2007, Dr. Ryan began her career at Bellarmine as Dean of Students, where she was in charge of Campus Ministry, Campus Recreation and Intramural Sports, Safety and Security, Career Services, the Counseling Center, Culinary Services, Accessibility Resource Center, the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Student Health Services, Residence Life, Student Activities and Orientation, Student Conduct, Student Engagement, student crisis support and emergency response to students and families, advising the Student Government Association, and overseeing compliance with state and federal regulations.
Since 2015, Dr. Ryan has been the Vice President for Student Affairs at the university, with responsibilities that include overseeing departments and programs that help students to grow in an academic, social, emotional and spiritual ways.
Dr. Ryan has made a lasting impact on the field of higher education through her research and support of underserved communities, mentorship of higher education professionals, and exceptional giving to the profession and others.
“While cliche, it’s true that you truly are only as good as your team,” Ryan said. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside outstanding colleagues and students throughout my career. I’m grateful the NASPA community, which is the professional home to thousands of student affairs professionals, recognizes the good work we are doing on our campus. It is ultimately about serving our students and setting them up for success.”