Aurora University
 

Academic Advisors
onlineadvising@aurora.edu
Click on the name of your academic advisor to read a bio.

Katy Jenkins

Katy Jenkins
1.630.526.5055
kjenkins@aurora.edu

Hi! My name is Katy Jenkins and I will be your academic advisor while you are at Aurora University. Always feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns you have – I am here to guide you to graduation!

I went to Western Kentucky University in Bowing Green, KY. I received my bachelor’s degree in English and minored in Nonprofit Administration; I have always been passionate about helping others through the written word and advising is no exception! Being a former student myself, I understand the pressures and challenges that students face. Having over 7 years in the education field and 6 years in specifically higher-education, I am a passionate advocate and ally for all students.

Outside of helping students, I love making jewelry, playing and hosting board game nights, listening to music, and enjoying my own personal zoo at home (3 cats, 1 bearded dragon, 5 axolotls, and much more!). I also have upwards of 30 plants, and don’t plan to stop buying them anytime soon.

I look forward to working with you and supporting you in this educational journey!

Ayat Abbas

Ayat Abbas
1.331.321.2367
aabbas@aurora.edu

Hi! My name is Ayat Abbas and I am an Academic Advisor at Aurora University. My first name is pronounced like "Hyatt", but without the "H". I am here to guide you through your academic career. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns that may come up during your time as a student here at Aurora.

I obtained a Masters in Social Work from University of Louisville's Kent School of Social Work. Prior to this, I received my Bachelors of Social Work from the University of Kentucky. Throughout my social work journey, I have become passionate about advocating for others to ensure that their needs and goals are being met. I am eager to advise students who have similar interests and passions within the social work realm. It is my goal to always be a supportive ally for all students who need guidance.

Outside of work, I really enjoy traveling with my twin sister. Being outdoors is something I love to do, and I have many adventurous trips on my bucket-list (i.e. visiting all major national parks!). In addition, I like to call myself a DIY kind of a gal. I love to create customized presents for my friends on my new Cricut machine, and I also like to push myself to create things for cheaper such as edible arrangements, and even some home decor! Adding to my creative side, I love to bake (my current favorite is cookies). Lastly, I love trying new foods, and exploring new local restaurants everywhere I go.

I look forward to getting to know you, and most importantly, supporting you in your goals and dreams!

Angela Bright

Angela Bright
1.630.526.5039
abright@aurora.edu

Hello! My name is Angela Bright. I am on the Academic Advising team for Aurora University Online. As a licensed educator, I have spent my career working with learners and their families including toddlers through late adulthood in multiple settings. I have a passion for lifelong learning and enjoy assisting others on their learning journeys. As your advisor and someone with teaching, advising, and administrative experience, I have great empathy for what it takes to be successful, and I look forward to helping you achieve your goals.

Outside of work, one of my greatest joys in life is to be an aunt to my nieces and nephews. Please reach out to me if I can help you in any way along your academic journey.

Kiel Molina Mercado

Kiel Molina Mercado
1.630.526.5052
kmercado@aurora.edu

Hello! My name is Kiel Molina Mercado, and I’m one of your Academic Advisors for Aurora University. My name is pronounced the same you pronounce Key with the letter L at the end (Key-ehl). I’m honored to be your advisor. I’ll be able to help you with any questions you might have, feel free to ask.

I received my bachelor’s in business administration from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico. This degree helped me to discover my love for organization and how to make things run smoothly. Being a former student myself, I understand the pressures you are going through. I’m glad to help in any way I can to make this student journey a fun one!

Outside of work, I enjoy connecting with friends and family. I am an avid gamer, Sci Fi fan and general Dungeons and Dragons enthusiasts. I have a deep love for all things tea and enjoy discovering new tea combinations to try. Looking forward to working with you!

Dominique Chauncey

Dominique Chauncey
1.331.702.6806
dchauncey@aurora.edu

Hello there! My name is Dominique Chauncey and I am your Academic Advisor here at Aurora University.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Central Florida in Event Management and spent many years in the hospitality and event industry which allowed me to work under immense pressure, find quick solutions, and learn how to best understand my clients. After several years in the industry, I decided to pursue my MA in Communications with a concentration in Project Management from Bellevue University. After looking for a change in career, I began in the higher education industry over 6 years ago and have loved it ever since.

In my free time, I like to spend family time with my two little boys, as well as read, cook, and go on little adventures with me. I’m looking forward to working with you throughout your academic journey and am more than happy to help you in any way that I can.

Sarah Garica

Sarah Garica
1.630.283.6174
sarahgarcia@aurora.edu

Hello! My name is Sarah Garica, and I will be your Academic Advisor while you are at Aurora University. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns that you may have; I’m here to help guide you to graduation!

My passion for education began about 12 years ago, when a group of high school special needs students completely stole my heart. My passion for education lead to many different settings ranging from preschool to higher education and everything in between. I received my Bachelor’s Degree from Grand Canyon University in Elementary Education and Special Education. I switched from classroom education to online advising in 2018 and obtained my Master’s Degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Educational Leadership.

In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exploring the local farmers market, and trying new restaurants in town. I also enjoy cooking, baking, and crocheting.