Graduate Advising

Graduate Advisors

CCI Academic Advisors are dedicated to empowering students towards success and are committed to advocating on behalf of each student in support of their holistic development.

Your graduate advisor is available to you for questions about registration, program planning and progression, and any other academic or administrative concerns. If your advisor cannot help you, they will direct you to someone that can. Please allow two business days for a response from your advisor, although during high traffic times such as the first few weeks of the term and registration, the response time may be longer.

Advising Appointment Information

Advisors are available to meet with students virtually through phone, Zoom, and in-person appointments only. Students may make an appointment via Timetrade in Drexel One or by emailing their graduate advisor directly.

Equality and Non-Discrimination Policy

The University is committed to an environment of equal opportunity in education and employment and to proactively undertake initiatives and take actions to create such an environment. In the administration of its admissions policies, educational policies, employment policies, scholarship and loan programs, and all other University administered programs and activities; the University prohibits discrimination against individuals on the basis of: race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, status as a veteran or special disabled veteran, gender identity and expression, genetic information, and any other characteristic prohibited by law (i.e., creed, marital status, citizenship status). Moreover, Drexel does not tolerate unlawful harassment of any kind.

You will find your assigned academic advisor below:

Alyson Demas

Alyson Demas

Associate Director of Advising, Graduate Level
Advises graduate students with last names A-Z, for degree programs:

  • MS in Business Information Technology (Online and On Campus);
  • MS in Software Engineering (CXT Program)

abr59@drexel.edu
215.895.6208

I first joined Drexel University in April 2016. I am the Associate Director of Graduate Advising in the College of Computing & Informatics. I have worked with Drexel’s School of Education previously and have served on several University-wide committees. I received a BA degree from Rowan University, and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Pennsylvania in Counseling and Mental Health Services.

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. We are here to support you through your academic opportunities, and we encourage you to make the most of your experience here. Drexel has so much to offer in terms of organizations, resources and civic engagement, and we are here to guide you through that process.

I am originally from New Jersey and now reside in the suburbs of Philadelphia. I truly enjoy spending time with my family and friends, while exploring the outdoors and all that nature has to offer. I also love music and going out to restaurants to try different places and foods.

Karen DeVose

Karen DeVose, Ed.D

Assistant Dean for Academic Advising and Student Success Pronouns: she/her/hers/herself

kd42@drexel.edu
215.895.6751

I rejoined Drexel University in January 2021. I am the Assistant Dean for Academic Advising and Student Success in the College of Computing & Informatics. My previous role was at Syracuse University as the Assistant Director of Academic Advising in the College of Arts and Sciences.

I received a BS degree from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania (Business Administration) and a Master of Education from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania (Education Administration and Supervision), a Post Graduate Certificate from Drexel University (Student Development and Affairs) and a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from Gwynedd Mercy University.

My research includes identifying factors and barriers that impact retention and persistence of underrepresented minority students at predominately white institutions. I am committed to helping all students and specifically underrepresented minority students socially and academically integrate themselves in higher education to improve retention, persistence, and graduation rates through 1) creating policies, procedures, and initiatives to improve retention and student’s success, 2) identifying resources and support programming; and 3) developing academic advisors.

To be successful student, students should pursue their academic interests, be unafraid to challenge themselves, change their mind, and then change it again, get involved in campus organizations, dream big, and stay positive!

I am native of Philadelphia, PA and one of seven children. I am foodie who loves to travel, read, and Line and African dance. I am a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated.

Dionne Gordon-Starks

Dionne Gordon-Starks

Senior Academic Advisor
Pronouns: she/her/hers/herself
Advises graduate students with last names A-K, for degree programs:

  • MS in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (On Campus and Online);
  • MS in Computer Science (On Campus);
  • MS in Data Science (On Campus);
  • MS in Information - Human-Computer Interaction & User Experience (On Campus);
  • MS In Information Systems (On Campus);
  • MS in Information - Library and Information Science (On Campus and Online);
  • MS in Software Engineering (On Campus and Online);
  • and Post-baccalaureate certificate programs (On Campus).

dcg37@drexel.edu
215.895.0542

While new to this position, I have been with Drexel University for 16 years. I have worked as a Senior Academic Advisor within the College of Engineering where I advised undergraduates within CAEE and undeclared students and have also worked as a senior academic advisor within the Goodwin College of Professional Studies, where I advised non-traditional and adult learners. I also work as an adjunct with the First Year Experience Program within Goodwin College and the Lindy Center.

I am passionate about education and enjoy helping students! My background in career and academic advising has allowed me to shape a very holistic approach to the field of advising. I have a special interest in student engagement and the retention of first generation and cultural minorities within STEM.

Allow I currently reside in South Jersey, I am a native Philadelphian and an avid football fan! I have earned my bachelor’s from Saint Joseph’s University and a Master’s in Higher Education Administration from Drexel University.
Lois Kasten

Lois Kasten

Academic Advisor
Advises graduate students with last names L-Z, for degree programs:

  • MS in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (On Campus and Online);
  • MS in Computer Science (On Campus);
  • MS in Data Science (On Campus);
  • MS in Information - Human-Computer Interaction & User Experience (On Campus);
  • MS In Information Systems (On Campus);
  • MS in Information - Library and Information Science (On Campus and Online);
  • MS in Software Engineering (On Campus and Online);
  • and Post-baccalaureate certificate programs (On Campus).

lhk23@drexel.edu
215.895.6334

I have been working in higher education for 27 years, and 17 out of those 27 years have been at Drexel. When you get to know me, you will find that I am very passionate about what I do in helping our students with achieving all their academic goals during their time at Drexel.

I am a firm believer that your time and money are most valuable, so I am here to help you achieve your goals along the way.

I am from the Southwest part of this beautiful country (Albuquerque, New Mexico) but call Philadelphia my home these days.
Patricia Kucker, EdD

Patricia Kucker, EdD

Academic Advisor & PhD Program Coordinator

pk652@drexel.edu
215.895.6272

I joined CCI and Drexel in June 2023 and have previously held faculty and leadership roles at Penn State, the University of Virginia and the University of Cincinnati. I am a licensed architect and have taught architecture building design to both graduate and undergraduate students. I enjoy empowering students to reach their aspirations! I live in Queen Village near the Delaware river and love Philadelphia's history and eclectic architecture. When not at work for Drexel, I enjoy time with family and friends, and my two Boston terriers.
Tammi Wrice

Tammi Wrice

Senior Academic Advisor, Graduate Advising
Advises graduate students with last names A-Z, for degree programs:

  • MS in Computer Science (Online Students)
  • MS in Data Science (Online Students)
  • MS in Health Informatics (Online Students)
  • All Post-Baccalaureate/Graduate Certificates (Online Students)

tdw66@drexel.edu
215.895.6939

I first joined Drexel University in October 2021. Before coming to Drexel's College of Computing & Informatics, I worked at Temple University’s College of Education and have also worked with STEM students at the undergraduate and graduate level for 12 years. I received a BS degree from Iowa State University, and a Master of Science in Organizational Development Leadership from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

I am a firm believer in helping students achieve their academic goals while having a positive experience. Drexel has so much to offer in terms of organizations, resources and civic engagement, and we are here to guide you through that process.

I am West Philadelphia, born and raised, and I still live in the neighborhood. I truly enjoy spending time with my family and friends and love the arts (dance).