Join us for candidate presentations for the director for First-Generation and Limited-Income Services (FGLI) and learn more about each finalist’s experience, leadership philosophy, and vision for supporting student success.
FGLI services is the central hub for connection, support, and success for students who are the first in their families to attend college and for those from limited-income backgrounds. Through advocacy, programs, and resources, the office helps students build community, navigate their college experience, and thrive at UW–Madison.
Attend the presentations and share feedback as part of the search process.
Presentation Schedule
Candidate 1
- Date: Thursday, July 16
- Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
- Location: Memorial Union, TITU
Candidate 2
- Date: Friday, July 17
- Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
- Location: Memorial Union, TITU
Candidate 3
- Date: Monday, July 20
- Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
- Location: Memorial Union, TITU
Candidate Information
Candidate 1: Adrienne Thunder
Adrienne Thunder is manager of the Ho-Chunk Nation Language Program, where she leads initiatives focused on helping learners achieve their educational and personal goals. Throughout her career, she has built, supported, and collaborated on programs that expand opportunities for students, families, and communities.
Previously, Thunder served as executive director of the Ho-Chunk Nation Department of Education, where she developed a comprehensive higher education program and restructured K–12 initiatives to strengthen parent and community engagement. She also worked as a senior advisor for undecided and transfer students in UW–Madison’s Cross-College Advising Service, helping students navigate academic, personal, and career pathways while building strong partnerships across the university’s schools, colleges, and Student Affairs divisions.
In 2025, Thunder and her husband, J. P. Leary, associate professor of First Nations Studies at UW–Green Bay, were recognized as the UW–Madison Cooċeja Alumni Association’s Badgers of the Year for their service to the university and Indigenous communities.
Outside of her professional work, Thunder enjoys traveling, attending live music performances, and going to the movies. She and Leary share their home with Mabel, their beloved black-and-tan smooth-haired dachshund.
Candidate 2: Jasmine Kelly
Dr. Jasmine Kelly is a higher education leader with a background in TRIO, student success, policy, and belonging. A first-generation college student and Gates Millennium Scholar from Atlanta, Georgia; Jasmine earned both her Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Health Education and Master’s degree in Student Affairs from Western Kentucky University.
She completed her doctoral studies at Clark Atlanta University, where she identified the challenges of Black female faculty achieving tenure at two research one institutions in Georgia. Jasmine is currently the associate director of student belonging at Georgia College & State University, and has over 10 years of experience in postsecondary education.
An avid believer in the imperativeness of student development and self-efficacy, Jasmine is dedicated to creating holistic collegiate experiences that empower students to grow into the fullest version of themselves.
Candidate 3: Takondwa Mwasi
Takondwa Mwasi is assistant director for student wellness at the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, where she leads initiatives that support student well-being, belonging, and success. Her work focuses on helping graduate and professional students navigate complex systems and connect with the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.
Before joining UW–Madison, Mwasi worked with first-generation and limited-income students through TRIO Upward Bound and TRIO Student Support Services at the University of Iowa. In those roles, she advised students, supported college transitions, and helped make higher education more accessible and understandable for students from a wide range of backgrounds.
Originally from Malawi, Mwasi studied in South Africa before immigrating to the United States. Her experiences navigating different educational systems shaped her commitment to creating more transparent, welcoming, and equitable learning environments. She believes student success is built through trust, strong relationships, and coordinated support systems that empower students to achieve their goals.
Mwasi holds a master of science degree in educational leadership and policy analysis from UW–Madison. Known for her thoughtful and collaborative leadership style, she is dedicated to advancing student-centered approaches that strengthen communities and help all students reach their full potential.