Professional Academic Advisors

Hello, my name is Kyle Hawkins and I currently serve as the Accelerated Master’s Program (AMP) Advisor. Born and raised in Chicago I love to explore the city and find new places to eat! When I am not working I love to volunteer with my fraternity or unwind on the Playstation. I am here to assist and make your time at IIT a great experience. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you have and I look forward to working with you.

Hello, my name is Mary Haynes and I currently serve as an Academic Advisor for Undergraduate Academic Affairs. I am here to assist you with questions regarding your undergraduate degree programs and support you during your time as a student. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns and I will be glad to work with you.

Hello, my name is Zipporah. I’m born and raised in Chicago. I’ve been working with students in higher education for 15 years.  I’m here to help assist you if you find yourself at a crossroads or are struggling. So, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you need help!

Gabrielle Smith is the Associate Director of the Office of Undergraduate Academic Affairs. Gabrielle has been working in Academic Affairs at Illinois Tech for almost 18 years. Her primary responsibilities within the office are graduation verification, the reinstatement of students who have taken a leave of absence or have withdrawn, and advising students on the university’s academic policies and procedures. Gabrielle has four adult children and three dogs and, when not at work, you can find her cheering on her beloved Bears and White Sox.

Joe Gorzkowski is the Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Affairs. Joe’s focus is on improving student success and retention for all Illinois Tech undergraduate and graduate students and ensuring adherence to the university’s academic policies and procedures. His passion for working in higher education started when he was a Resident Assistant at Western Illinois University, and he has worked in higher education for over a decade. Outside of work, Joe enjoys running, spending time with his family and pets, and watching the Bears, Bulls and White Sox.

Hello, my name is Maria Aiko Petersen, Office Manager of Academic Affairs.  I have been working with IIT for 7 years now, my first job in the US since I moved from my home country – the Philippines.  I am responsible for keeping the office running smoothly and overseeing administrative support.  My job ranges widely in duties and responsibilities such as reception, answering phone calls and emails, updating students’ records in Banner and Degreeworks and supervising our student workers.  In my free time, I love to stay active so I go for long walks, bike rides, and kayaking in a nearby lake.   My form of relaxation is watching movies at home with my 2 cats.