Jeanne Poppe has been named counselor at Riverland Community College.

Thursday, April 20, 2000

Jeanne Poppe has been named counselor at Riverland Community College.

Poppe’s primary area of responsibility will be Riverland’s Albert Lea campus with additional duties at the Owatonna Higher Education Center. In this role, Poppe will assist current and perspective students in making career decisions by applying career development theories. Poppe has served as interim counselor on the Albert Lea Campus since July.

Poppe also will work with students in selecting, administering and interpreting psychometric assessment instruments including achievement, ability, aptitude, values, interest and personality. She will help students resolve issues relating to interpersonal relationships, personal barriers and social situations that may interfere with student academic and career objectives by applying personal development and counseling theories. Her duties also include planning, facilitating and implementing workshops and support groups for career and personal development and assisting students with admission, registration and orientation to the college.

"Jeanne combines excellent interpersonal skills with a sound understanding of the college’s mission," Gary Schindler, vice president of student affairs, said. "She has developed strong relationships with our students, has a keen knowledge of the college’s policies and procedures and is well versed in the career programs and transfer curriculum Riverland provides."

Poppe has worked for Riverland Community College since 1992. Her various positions have included Women’s Center director, student activities/Student Senate adviser and director of admissions. Previous to her employment with Riverland, she was a career counselor with the Private Industry Council.

Poppe holds a bachelor of arts degree in sociology from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and a master of science degree in counseling-professional development from Winona State University. She has served as a Second Ward Austin City Council member since 1994. Poppe lives in Austin with her husband, Bob Vilt, and their three children, Lydia, Casey and Skyler.

"Jeanne’s skills will be invaluable in helping Riverland students succeed and achieve their academic and personal goals," Schindler said.