Kelly S. Westeen Ph.D. ’20 is director of University Perspectives and college learning for the Student Success Center. She was named the 2021 NWA Big of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Arkansas at its annual gala, The Big Event. You can learn more about this honor at in a recent article shared on Arkansas News. Westeen, a life member of the Arkansas Alumni Association, recently participated in a Q&A with Collin Brunner, assistant director for membership experience. The following is an edited transcription of her responses.
What does membership mean to you?
Membership in the Arkansas Alumni Association is one way I thank you and give back to an institution that has had such a positive impact on my life, both as a student and a campus professional. Giving back to my communities is deeply important to me. My membership gives me the opportunity to not only financially impact the university in a positive way but also enhance its reputation through sharing with others stories of my positive experiences on campus. I also appreciate the networking opportunities and the good work the association and its members do in attracting new students to the university and helping to fund their educations through various scholarship programs.
What is your favorite place or memory from your time on campus?
Graduating with my Ph.D. is definitely my favorite memory. As far as places, the Old Main lawn is one of my favorite places on campus. There’s always something so serene about it to me, even amidst the busiest times of the semester. History also fascinates me, so looking at some of the earliest names on Senior Walk in front of Old Main is something I enjoy doing. Taking in the historical significance of Old Main itself and what it represents to the state and those who have come before me at the university is also awe-inspiring.
Did you have a mentor, class or activity that enhanced your campus experience?
Two particular women have played pivotal roles in my experiences as a student and a staff member. Dr. Dorothy Stephens’s Travel and Domesticity course was hands-down my favorite course and helped me solidify my research interests, in part due to her passion for the course subject matter. But more importantly, as my dissertation chair throughout an incredibly long and arduous dissertating process, she offered me so much grace and tough mentorly love. Professionally, Dr. Ro Di Brezzo has had a profound effect on me. She was the first supervisor I had who I felt truly cared about me and put her complete faith in me. I always felt like she was invested in helping me pursue my personal and professional goals while also offering valuable professional advice. I also appreciate her sense of humor and frankness. I’m indebted to her in so many ways.
Why is mentoring important?
Kelly Westeen poses with Little Sister Jada (left).
I’ve been fortunate to be involved with mentoring in a few different ways in my life, including professional mentoring and community-based mentoring with youth. One of the most powerful aspects of mentoring is the most basic thing about it–the personal connections. Knowing that someone genuinely cares for you, your success, and your wellbeing and is willing to invest their time and energy into you is powerful. In the work I’ve done with Big Brothers Big Sisters, that care and concern can be life-changing for a child and make them feel less alone. I’ve been able to both listen to my Little and offer her advice that has hopefully helped to make her life a little easier. Having someone who has been through some of the same challenges as you have and can give you advice on how to navigate those challenges can be an invaluable resource in building confidence, success, and a feeling of belonging.
